A lot of people wonder, what is it like to live in Poole? You may have heard of our fabulous water sports scene, the luxurious beaches at Sandbanks, or our close links to Dorset and the World Heritage Jurassic Coast. There are many reasons people enjoy living in Poole; here are some that might appeal to you.
Poole is home to Europe’s largest natural harbour and some of the best beaches in the UK, located just three miles away from the main town. In the Old Town and Quayside, you will discover a rich maritime history waiting to be explored.
In many ways, Poole really has it all. If you’re looking for a healthy outdoor lifestyle, a family friendly place to settle, or you’ve just always wanted to live near the coast, this might just be the place for you. We also have excellent health support in the area.
About the Area
When moving to a new place, it’s important to familiarise yourself. Luckily, living on the south coast makes things a little easier, since everything is located in relation to that! To the West of Poole lies the Isle of Purbeck, the World Heritage Jurassic Coast and the rest of Dorset. To the East is Bournemouth with its seafront city centre and Christchurch which borders the New Forest National Park. Once you familiarise yourself you’ll soon get your bearings. You can always check out our beach pages to learn more about our fabulous coastal setting.
Poole Quay and Old Town
Poole’s historic quayside is at the heart of its community. The waterside restaurants and pubs face out onto a working quay that host many ships, boats and super yachts entering and leaving the harbour. Fishing is a large industry for Poole which is represented by the many fantastic seafood restaurants in the town. As you step away from the quay and navigate the cobbled streets of Poole Old Town it’s hard not to imagine the history behind these stunning buildings, many of which are now occupied by independent stores and local brands.
Poole Harbour is proudly Europe’s largest natural harbour and the second biggest in the world behind Sydney. The enormous expanse of water is a hive of activity big and small, from the many wakeboarders, wind surfers and paddle boarders who leap at a chance to get on the water, to the large ferries coming and going from France and the Channel Islands. The Harbour is home to several islands the largest of which, Brownsea Island, is owned byNational Trust and is a popular visitors attraction with boats operating to the island from Poole Quay and Sandbanks in season.
Parkstone & Branksome
East of the town centre towards Bournemouth lies the residential suburbs of Parkstone and Branksome. Parkstone is divided into two halves with the lower area being closer to the beaches and the upper encompassing a larger residential area. In Lower Parkstone you will also find Ashley Cross; a grass square area surrounded with shops, cafes, restaurants and bars. This is also where Parkstone Train Station is located. Directly to the east of Parkstone is Branksome, another residential area with beautiful sandy beaches and further commercial outlets. Travelling towards Bournemouth, Branksome will take you into Westbourne, a charming coastal village with a Highstreet full of cafes and boutique stores.
Canford Cliffs & Sandbanks
Situated between Shore Road and Branksome Chine beaches is the affluent and desirable suburb of Canford Cliffs. The beach has Blue Flag status and is often quieter than neighbouring hotspots. In the area you will also find Canford Cliffs Village, a small shopping avenue which offers restaurants and local shops.
The reputation of Sandbanks as one of the most exclusive areas in the country, constantly precedes it. But alongside its extravagant residences, the area is enjoyed by locals and holiday makers alike. The blue flag beaches and serene setting attract visitors all year round and the famous sand spit is also home to some of the best seafood restaurants in the area. At the tip of Sandbanks, you can also take the chain ferry to Studland; gateway to the Isle of Purbeck and The Jurassic Coast.
Studland and the Isle of Purbeck
The four-minute ferry crossing will take you into the beautiful area of Studland, the tip of the Isle of Purbeck and the most easterly point on the Jurassic coast. With four miles of beautiful beaches, the sheltered waters are ideal for beach games, sandcastles, water sports or simply relaxing. Other notable areas on the Isle of Purbeck include, Corfe Castle, Kimmeridge Bay, Old Harry Rocks, the town of Swanage and a plethora of other natural delights.
Surrounding areas and into Dorset
To the west of Poole you will find Hamworthy, Upton, Lytchett Bay and Holes Bay. The environment here is less coastal and resembles something more akin to parts of rural Dorset. With the quieter bays and lagoons of Poole Harbour, they offer a slightly different perspective of Poole and have good access to explore the Purbecks. With a train station on the Waterloo to Weymouth line, Hamworthy in particular offers great access to East Dorset.
