Parks & Gardens

Poole's 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.

It's clear to see Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole  boast a pethora of well-managed parks and green spaces all waiting to be enjoyed.  

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, watersports on the lake, children's indoor and outdoor play areas and activities and a fitness trail.

Hamworthy Park and Beach

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.  New Spurrier’s Play Park, Wooden Play Trail, tea rooms, art gallery and plant centre.   A variety of family friendly events take place in the ground at weekends and holiday times.

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Harbourside Park

Harbourside Park is made up of Baiter and Whitecliff recreation grounds and is situated between Poole Park and Poole Harbour.  There is a level footpath that takes you from Poole Quay, through Harbourside Park and into Whitecliff and Poole Park offering stunning harbour views out towards Brownsea Island along the way.  Facilites include a public slipway and skate park at Baiter and a large children's play area at Whitecliff.

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

Scroll down the page to see further detail on parks in Poole and garden attractions in resort.

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