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Parks & Gardens Poole

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Poole Parks & Gardens

With nearly a fifth of Poole open green space, 43 play parks and more than 500 hectares of heathland, there are fabulous opportunities to get out, get active and see rare native wildlife.

Poole Park

Just a short walk from the centre of town you'll discover a haven of peace and rare beauty. Poole Park lake is at the centre and is surrounded by facilities such as tennis courts, bowling green, children's indoor and outdoor play areas, ice skating rink, Poole Park railway or try the fitness trail.

Hamworthy Park

With its waterside location offering panoramic views towards the Purbeck hills, the park on the inner shore of Poole Harbour has a small sandy beach with a promenade. An extensive grassed area is great for ball games and the large fenced playground includes a paddling pool (open during the summer), fabulous playground facilities for young and older children and a café for that perfect ice cream.

Upton Country Park

Over 100 acres of award-winning gardens, woodland and shoreline. Home to Upton House, a Grade II listed Georgian Mansion and stunning walled garden. Wooden Play Trail, tea rooms, art gallery, outdoor events and plant centre. A variety of family friendly events take place in the ground at weekends and holiday times.

Pinecliff Gardens and Play Sculptures

Head to Pinecliff Gardens in Canford Cliffs for a wildlife play sculpture trail. Children can climb the giant wooden insects and enjoy fabulous views over the beaches and Poole Bay from the cliff top garden before walking down to the beach.

Car parking can be found at each of these parks but they are also very easy to reach by bus, foot or bike.

Poole’s Heathland

Home to a rich tapestry of native plants and wildlife including the rare smooth snake, sand lizard and Dartford warbler, Poole’s heathlands are internationally recognised as a for recop.

The largest, Canford Heath, offers views to Corfe Castle and the Purbecks and can be explored on expert guided walks

Compton Acres

Poole is also home to some of the South’s finest privately owned gardens at Compton Acres where a wooded valley, distinctive Japanese, Italian and heather gardens transport you across the world. Pick up tips from the experts or take home a new addition at the Plant Centre. There is also plenty of opportunity to relax in the restaurant or pick up treats and gifts in the deli and shop.

Further Afield...

Lulworth Estate

Enjoy extensive parkland, woodland walks, a children’s playground and spacious grounds surrounding the iconic Lulworth Castle. on the world heritage Jurassic Coast. Perfect for picnics and dog walks (on the lead). The recently opened Castle Tearoom is a great spot to enjoy delicious homemade cakes, cream teas and to buy a souvenir of your visit. *Check attraction for opening times.

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Compton Acres

Poole

Enjoy over 10 acres of horticultural heaven with spectacular themed gardens, relax in the charming Café, browse creative gifts or delve into the exciting world of plants within the Plant Centre, there's a surprise at every turn.

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
842 reviews
Upton Country Park

Poole

Whatever the season, there's something for everyone - enjoy the wildlife along the shoreline, try the Woodland Play Trail, visit an exhibition at The Gallery, try one of the many events – or simply find a quiet spot to admire the grounds and...
The Blue Pool and Wareham Bears

Wareham

Escape to a magical pool, set in 20 acres of heath & woodland in the midst of the Purbeck Hills.

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
434 reviews
Beaulieu National Motor Museum

New Forest

Beaulieu is an award winning family attraction set within the heart of the New Forest. Over 800 years of heritage can be seen on the Beaulieu Estate & has been owned by the Montagu family for over four centuries.
Brownsea Island - National Trust

Poole

Take a short boat trip from Poole Quay or Sandbanks to discover an island rich in history, wildlife & adventure. Enjoy peace and tranquility, breathtaking coastal views, walks, & family trails.

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
2069 reviews
Poole Park

Poole

Just a short walk from the centre of town you'll discover a haven of peace and rare beauty. Enjoy watersports, boating, tennis, crazy golf & fitness trails, children's play areas, cafes or just sit back and enjoy the view!

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
350 reviews
Dorset Heavy Horse Farm Park

Verwood

The Dorset Heavy Horse Farm Park is a multi-award-winning attraction attraction located in the heart of Dorset. Recognised as both a family attraction and conservation centre for the rare breed Heavy Horses.
Corfe Castle Model Village and Gardens

Corfe Castle

Be a Time Travelling Giant!
1/20th scale model of Corfe Castle and the village as it was in 1646.

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
399 reviews

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