Shopping

Support Local Business

Local independent businesses give our communities character. It’s one of the reasons so many people come to visit. At times when these businesses can’t stay open it’s even more important to support them online. Instead of shopping with big-name retailers, you can make an active choice to support your local economy and help our communities thrive.

Poole Town Centre

Stretching from the water’s edge at Poole Quay up to Dorset’s largest covered shopping centre, Poole’s centrally located town centre is perfect for some retail therapy.

Offering fabulous waterside views, fantastic dining and plenty of coffee stops along the way, enjoy a town full of character and a proud history that saw it grow from one of the South Coast’s most important medieval ports into a thriving holiday and business destination.  With entertainment from creative artists to a packed programme of events throughout the year, there’s lots to engage with whilst shopping in the town.

Situated in the heart of Poole, with easy level access, a great range of parking and adjacent public transport, shopping couldn’t be easier. Taxi ranks and Poole's central bus station stop right outside the Dolphin Shopping Centre and the railway station is just 500 meters from one of the main shopping area.

Shop in comfort at the Dolphin Shopping Centre with stores ranging from top high street favourites M&S, Primark and Next and bespoke stores such as Animal and Beales, plus the newly refurbished centre toilets and  multi-storey car park with 1400 parking spaces ,makes it an easy stop for visitors.  

High Street, Old Town & The Quay

From Falkland Square, just outside the Dolphin Centre, take a break from the mix of independent and High Street chains at one of the many, coffee shops and restaurants as the High Street winds its way down to the bustling quayside. 

For bargain hunters, every Thursday and Saturday Poole hosts a weekly street market along the High Street with changing range of stalls.  From clothing to real leather belts, bags & purses, music, a traditional butcher, bedding and pet foods, you can be sure of picking up a bargain. 

Experience a taste of historic Poole’s Georgian Mansions which increase in size and splendour as you move towards the Old Town and Quayside. Surrounded by the stunning harbour and medieval buildings, the area is home to a range of fantastic restaurants and small, independent shops including ethical cosmetic brand Lush which still operates its original shop in the Lower High Street and has its headquarters based in Poole.

Poole Quay is a great place to relax and watch the world go by.  There are plenty of shops and attractions dotted along the waterfront.

Along the Quayside is a huge range of restaurants, cafes and traditional pubs serving fresh seafood and dining for every budget. From traditional fish and chips to the finest French dining, soak up the atmosphere, the harbour views and enjoy events and entertainment throughout the year.

Christmas Shopping

As winter approaches explore Poole High Street and Poole Quay for a wide range of independents for that truly unique present. Take a break at one of the restaurants, bars and cafes, perfect for hard working shoppers to have a festive time-out treat.  

Surrounding Areas
 

Ashley Cross

Situated a small area around Ashley Cross Green with an eclectic mix of bars, restaurants and small independent shops, the green in Ashley Cross offers a lovely area to relax and holds events at different times of the year.

Canford Cliffs

With a small village atmosphere and closely located to Poole’s beaches, enjoy small local shops, busy restaurants, bakery and more.

Bournemouth

For a great mix of traditional department stores, High Street brands, cafes and restaurants with the added benefit of gardens and beaches try Bournemouth Town Centre. Alternatively out of town centres such as Castlepoint Shopping Centre offers great convenience and choice.

Capp Assist

CAPP Assist is a free app that allows you to check the capacity of venues before you go. Using live venue data, the app is designed to help users shop, work, dine-out and visit care homes safely.

You can also check in and out via the QR code function, avoiding having to provide your details manually each time you visit.

Download for Apple and Android today, or register your business and help consumers feel safe visiting venues again. 

Plan ahead, Know Before You Go and visit Poole with confidence.