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Incredible birds eye shot of Sandbanks and the surrounding areas in Poole
You are here: Ideas & Inspiration > Itineraries > Autumn top 10 things to do in Poole
1. Rare red squirrel spotting on Brownsea Island
Enjoy a perfect Autumn day enjoying the amazing sights, colours and delights of Brownsea Island. Red squirrel spotting is a must! Brownsea Island is one of the few places left in England where you can see the native red squirrel. Autumn is the perfect time to see them on the ground and in low branches. Whilst on the island, enjoy a walk in woodland or along the waters edge, sit back and relax in the café or enjoy learning about the fascinating history of the island.
2. A date with nature
There’s no better place to see birds busy on the water than Poole Harbour during the winter months. Take a bird boat cruise or guided walk with the experts and discover a wealth of wildlife and a fascinating insight into the nature, history and unrivalled beauty of Dorset’s coast.
3. Ghost Walks
Poole, with its rich history is one of the most haunted places in Dorset. Step behind the Quay & through alleyways & learn all about the smugglers and sailors who have inhabited the town over the years. Don’t miss the Halloween Specials!
4. Cockle Trail & Poole Museum
Why not delve further into the history of the town using the Cockle Trail leaflet, available to purchase at the Poole Tourist Information Centre located in Poole Museum. On this one hour self-guided walk follow the brass plaques in the pavement, highlighting the beautiful, historic buildings and landmarks that make up Poole Old Town and Quayside. There are plenty of pubs and café bars on route to enjoy a hot toddy or two!
On route you will pass Poole Museum. Open all year and offering free entry, this is a great place for families to visit with a range of interactive, hands on displays and exhibitions plus events taking place throughout the year.
5. Walk on the Beach
Enjoy one of Poole’s five individual and unique beaches in the quieter periods to take in the beautiful views and stunning coastal scenery including Sandbanks, winner of more Blue Flags than any other UK beach resort. A stop at Sandbanks Beach Café or Branksome Beach restaurant at Branksome Chine Beach is a must for afternoon tea or a heavenly hot chocolate. If you are looking for a Fine Dining Dinner option take a look at Rick Stein Sandbanks.
6. Relaxing stays
For the ultimate autumn relax – enjoy a stay at the sumptuous and cosy Hotel Du Vin. Situated in Poole’s Old Town, this beautiful Virginia – creeper clad Georgian mansion is the perfect place to relax after an autumn walk – with its open fireplace, comfy armchairs and impressive food and drink offer…you won’t want to leave!
6. Must see Autumn events
Summer may be over, but there are still plenty of events to keep you entertained. There’s plenty of Half Term fun had with spooky events and activities at many attractions. Discover some of the hottest tickets outside London at Lighthouse, Poole’s Centre for the Arts with it's packed programme of top comedy, theatre, live music and arts at the largest regional arts centre in the UK.
Remember; remember the 5 November…Poole Quay is the backdrop to the biggest FREE fireworks display in Dorset with activities from 5pm with spectacular display at 8pm.
7. Spa heaven – Harmony in the Haven
The finest sanctuary for the relation and reinvigoration of your body and mind. The perfect place to escape a blustery Autumn day, enjoy a range of spa treatments, gym, sauna, steam room, outdoor hot tub, hydrotherapy pool with three spa pools and swim fit spa.
8.Compton Acres
On the outskirts of Poole, Compton Acres is famous for their 10 acres of beautiful gardens. The grand Italian Garden has a large formal pond with foundations, statues and colourful bedding. See the waterfalls in the natural Wooded Valley and visit the Bog Garden which is a haven for wildlife. Follow paths and bridges across the Rock and Water Garden for a spectacular view across the harbour.
Upton Country Park
The day’s maybe getting shorter but there is still a wealth of wildlife and superb autumn colours to be enjoyed throughout Upton Country Park. There is so much for all the family to do – tea rooms, The Gallery Upstairs, lots of wide open spaces and the popular play trail and adventure playground – with its different natural timber structures. Upton Country Park offer a packed programme of events over October Half Term.
Also check out the Poole Heritage Cycle Route circular route which starts/ends at Upton Country Park. Look out for the penny farthing signs along the route between the park and Poole Town Centre.
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