When planning a getaway to the beautiful Dorset coast, your mind naturally drifts toward our spectacular sandy beaches and the sparkling waters of Europe's largest natural harbour. But just beyond the shoreline, Poole holds a vibrant, leafy secret. We are incredibly proud to announce that two of our most cherished visitor destinations; Upton Country Park and Poole Park have once again been awarded the prestigious Green Flag Award, officially marking them as some of the absolute best green spaces in the UK.
For our visitors, spotting that iconic Green Flag flying high is a guarantee of excellence. It signifies a destination that meets the highest environmental standards, boasts beautifully maintained facilities, and provides a safe, welcoming environment for all. This remarkable achievement is a true testament to the year-round dedication of our local staff and passionate volunteers, who work tirelessly to preserve these sanctuaries for both local wildlife and our visiting holidaymakers.
Adding to the celebration, both locations have also achieved the Green Heritage Site Accreditation, supported by Historic England. This special honour highlights the extraordinary care taken to protect and promote the rich history that makes these grounds so special.
Whether you are building your perfect Poole holiday itinerary or looking for a spontaneous family day out, these two distinct parks offer unforgettable experiences.
Poole Park: A Victorian Gem by the Harbour
Situated just a scenic, short stroll from the town centre and hugging the very edge of the harbour, Poole Park is a magnificent 110-acre Victorian treasure. Here, history and seaside family fun blend seamlessly. You can easily spend a sun-drenched afternoon taking to the expansive boating lake on a pedalo, challenging the kids to a round of crazy golf, and letting them burn off energy in the beautifully designed play areas.
For those seeking a quieter moment, the park’s highly accessible, flat pathways invite you to wander through tranquil rose gardens, feed the resident ducks, and pause for a coffee and a slice of cake at one of the lakeside cafés, all while soaking in the gentle coastal atmosphere.
Upton Country Park: Woodlands, Wildlife, and Historic Splendour
If you are looking to truly escape into nature, Upton Country Park offers an entirely different, yet equally enchanting, retreat just a few minutes from the town centre. Spread across 140 acres of lush woodland, vibrant botanical gardens, and gentle shoreline, it is a spectacular haven for nature lovers. At the heart of the estate stands the magnificent Grade II* listed Georgian Upton House, anchoring the park in centuries of elegance.
Upton is also widely celebrated as one of Dorset's most dog-friendly days out, offering expansive off-lead areas and miles of meandering woodland trails for your four-legged friends. Whether you are letting the little ones discover the magical woodland play trail, exploring the spectacular Walled Garden, or popping into the state-of-the-art Welcome Centre to plan your afternoon, Upton provides a breathtaking backdrop for making holiday memories.
Ready to Explore?
Councillor Andy Hadley, Portfolio Holder for parks, perfectly captured the pride of our town when reflecting on the win, noting how fortunate we are to showcase an area rich in unique habitats that offers both residents and visitors a genuine connection with nature.
Next time you visit Poole, take a refreshing break from the beach and step into our award-winning greenery. Come and see for yourself why our parks are proudly flying the Green Flag!
Love Poole? Don't forget to share your spectacular park photos with us on social media using #LovePoole!
