Poole Park: Urban Oasis with Saltwater Lake and Family Fun
Discover Poole Park’s vast saltwater lake, vibrant gardens, and family-friendly activities in the heart of Dorset’s coastal town.
Poole Park is a spacious urban park in Poole, Dorset, featuring the UK’s largest inland saltwater lake, expansive green spaces, and diverse recreational facilities. With 110 acres of parkland, it offers playgrounds, watersports, tennis courts, a bowling green, crazy golf, and peaceful gardens, making it ideal for families, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts. The park is free to enter, dog-friendly, and hosts year-round events and activities.
A brief summary to Poole Park
- Poole Pk, Poole, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to enjoy peaceful walks before the park becomes busier.
- Try beginner watersports sessions with Rockley Watersports for a fun introduction to sailing or paddleboarding.
- Bring bird food like grain to feed the ducks and swans around the lake, but avoid bread.
- Use the free car parks available within the park, but note vehicle restrictions between 6am and 10am weekdays and Saturdays.
- On rainy days, take the kids to the indoor soft play area or try pottery painting at the studio.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus services from Poole town center to Poole Park, with frequent routes running every 10-20 minutes. The journey typically takes 10-15 minutes. Bus tickets cost around £2-£4. Note that services may reduce frequency on Sundays.
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Car
Driving to Poole Park is convenient with three free car parks on site and additional free on-road parking. Be aware that vehicle access is restricted between 6am and 10am Monday to Saturday. Parking is free but can fill up during peak times.
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Walking
From Poole town center, walking to Poole Park takes approximately 20-30 minutes along mostly flat, paved paths suitable for all abilities. This is a pleasant route through urban and green areas.
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Cycling
Cyclists can access Poole Park via dedicated cycle lanes from the town center, with secure bike parking available. The ride takes about 10-15 minutes on mostly flat terrain.
Poole Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Poole Park
A Saltwater Lake at the Heart of Poole Park
Poole Park centers around the UK's largest inland saltwater lake, a unique feature that supports a variety of waterfowl including swans, ducks, geese, and coots. The lake is a hub for watersports such as dinghy sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding, with beginner courses and equipment hire available through Rockley Watersports. Visitors can also enjoy pedalo rides, including charming swan-shaped pedalos, making the lake a lively and engaging focal point.Expansive Green Spaces and Gardens
Spanning 110 acres, Poole Park offers vast lawns perfect for picnics, casual sports, or simply relaxing. The Rose Garden and the Quiet Garden provide tranquil spots for reflection amid well-tended floral displays. The park’s green expanses are ideal for walking, jogging, cycling, and scootering, with scenic paths encircling the lake and dotted with interpretive signage that shares the park’s rich history and natural environment.Facilities and Activities for All Ages
Poole Park is designed to cater to families and visitors of all ages. It features two large adventure playgrounds with climbing frames, swings, and slides, plus an indoor soft play center for rainy days. Sports enthusiasts can hire tennis courts, play crazy golf, or try their hand at bowling on the green. The park also hosts model yacht racing on the lake and cricket matches, adding to its vibrant community atmosphere.Dining and Leisure Options
Visitors can enjoy refreshments at the waterside café and restaurant, or grab an ice cream from the parlour. Picnic areas with seating are scattered throughout the park, allowing guests to dine al fresco while enjoying views of the lake and gardens. The park’s layout encourages leisurely exploration and social gatherings in a relaxed outdoor setting.Community Events and Accessibility
Poole Park is a hub for local events, from family festivals to sporting competitions, providing entertainment throughout the year. The park is free to enter and offers three free car parks, along with on-road parking. It is dog-friendly, though dogs are restricted from fenced play areas. Vehicles are restricted from entering the park between 6am and 10am on weekdays and Saturdays, ensuring a safe and peaceful environment for pedestrians and cyclists.Historical and Environmental Significance
The park’s interpretive features highlight its historical connections, including stories of flying boats, Victorian plant hunters, and Olympic cyclists. As a recipient of the Green Flag award, Poole Park is recognized for its well-managed green space, biodiversity, and community value, making it an essential urban oasis in Poole’s townscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
King Alfred the Great Statue
60.1 km
A towering bronze tribute to England’s Saxon king, standing proudly in Winchester’s historic Broadway since 1901.
Nunney Castle
61.6 km
A French-influenced medieval fortress where a Hundred Years' War veteran built his legacy in stone.
Sham Castle
78.0 km
Discover the enchanting Sham Castle in Bath, a perfect blend of historical charm and stunning natural scenery for every traveler.
SouthGate Bath
78.1 km
Explore SouthGate Bath: A shopping haven blending modern retail with historic charm in the heart of Bath.
The Forum
78.2 km
Discover The Forum in Bath – a historic live music venue featuring diverse performances in a stunning architectural setting.
St John The Evangelist's Church
78.2 km
Discover the stunning architecture and serene atmosphere of St John The Evangelist's Church in Bath, a must-visit gem for culture and history enthusiasts.
Bath Quays Waterside
78.2 km
A vibrant, sustainable waterside regeneration reconnecting Bath’s city centre with its historic river heritage and green public spaces.
Oldbury Castle Hillfort
78.3 km
Discover the ancient wonders of Oldbury Castle Hillfort, a historic landmark offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Iron Age Britain.
Old Theatre Royal
78.3 km
Discover the historic Old Theatre Royal in Bath, a cultural hub blending stunning architecture and vibrant events for an unforgettable experience.
Bath Masonic Hall
78.3 km
Discover the hidden history and architectural beauty of Bath Masonic Hall, a unique tourist attraction that unveils the secrets of Freemasonry.
Bath Pavilion
78.3 km
Experience elegance and versatility at Bath Pavilion, the premier function room facility in the heart of Bath, perfect for weddings and conferences.
Chapel Arts Centre
78.3 km
Discover the lively spirit of Bath at Chapel Arts Centre, where live music meets a cozy café atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
North Parade Bridge
78.3 km
Explore the breathtaking North Parade Bridge in Bath, a historic architectural marvel offering stunning views of the River Avon and serene surroundings.
City Sightseeing Bath Hop On Hop Off
78.3 km
Discover the best of Bath with City Sightseeing's flexible hop-on hop-off bus tour, exploring iconic landmarks and hidden gems at your own pace.
North Parade, Bath
78.3 km
Experience the historic beauty and vibrant atmosphere of North Parade, Bath, where Georgian architecture meets the charm of the River Avon.
Unmissable attractions to see
Poole Park Pavilion
0.7 km
A vibrant community pavilion nestled in Poole Park, offering diverse recreational activities and a scenic setting for all ages.
RNLI Poole Old Lifeboat Museum
1.1 km
Discover the heroic history of Poole’s lifeboat service at the RNLI Old Lifeboat Museum, nestled in the historic 1882 station on Fisherman's Dock.
Coastal Cruises Poole
1.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Poole's coastline with Coastal Cruises, offering unforgettable boat tours for every traveler.
Scaplen's Court Museum and Garden
1.4 km
Explore a beautifully preserved medieval merchant’s house and tranquil garden in Poole’s historic Old Town, blending heritage with vibrant community life.
Parkstone
2.0 km
Parkstone blends historic charm and scenic harbour views in a vibrant residential suburb of Poole, Dorset.
Alexandra Park, Poole
2.9 km
A beautifully restored Victorian park in Poole offering family-friendly play areas, a community café, and vibrant green spaces for all to enjoy.
Brownsea Island
3.1 km
Explore Brownsea Island’s rich wildlife, historic castle, and scenic trails in Poole Harbour’s largest nature sanctuary.
Sandbanks Beach
4.2 km
Britain's Blue Flag beacon—golden sands, sheltered waters, and three decades of coastal excellence.
Knoll Beach Studland
5.8 km
Golden sands, dunes, and heritage naturism on Dorset's most celebrated beach.
Russell Cotes Art Gallery & Museum
7.1 km
A Victorian cliff-top villa turned museum, showcasing eclectic art and global treasures with stunning sea views on Bournemouth’s East Cliff.
Agglestone Rock
8.2 km
Discover the legendary Agglestone Rock on Studland Heath, a natural sandstone marvel steeped in myth and surrounded by tranquil Dorset heathland.
Old Sarum
43.2 km
Explore Old Sarum’s ancient hillfort, Norman castle, and medieval cathedral ruins—the birthplace of Salisbury with over 2,000 years of layered history.
Stonehenge Rd
52.0 km
Stonehenge Road leads you through the timeless Salisbury Plain to the legendary Stonehenge, where ancient mysteries and natural beauty converge.
Woodhenge
53.9 km
Explore Woodhenge, a Neolithic timber circle near Stonehenge, revealing ancient ceremonial mysteries through its aligned wooden posts and sacred landscape.
Durrington Walls
54.2 km
Explore Durrington Walls, the UK’s largest Neolithic henge and ancient village site, a monumental ceremonial landscape near Stonehenge.
Essential places to dine
Prezzo Italian Restaurant Bath
78.0 km
Authentic Italian dining in Bath’s historic Brunel Square, serving classic pizzas, pasta, and inclusive menus in a unique railway tunnel setting.
Tapas Revolution.
78.1 km
Lively Spanish tapas and cocktails in central Bath – perfect for sharing, socialising and a taste of Iberian flair.
Sign of the Angel
78.2 km
Step into history at Sign of the Angel, a 15th-century coaching inn in Lacock offering cozy charm, excellent food, and timeless English hospitality.
The Elder Restaurant
78.3 km
Experience refined modern British cuisine with a focus on seasonal wild game in Bath’s elegant Georgian setting.
Yak Yeti Yak
78.3 km
Authentic Nepalese cuisine and Himalayan hospitality in a vibrant basement gem.
Opa Bath
78.3 km
Experience authentic Greek meze and vibrant nightlife in atmospheric vaulted cellars by Bath’s River Avon.
Sotto Sotto
78.3 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine in a romantic vaulted cellar setting beneath Bath’s historic streets.
La Perla
78.3 km
Discover authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant flavors in the cozy, atmospheric arches beneath Bath’s historic streets.
Noya's Kitchen
78.3 km
Experience authentic Vietnamese home cooking in a charming Grade II listed Georgian setting in the heart of Bath.
Tagine Zhor
78.3 km
Experience the rich flavors and warm hospitality of Morocco in the heart of Bath at Tagine Zhor, a vibrant and authentic Moroccan dining destination.
OAK Restaurant
78.4 km
Discover OAK Restaurant in Bath: exquisite vegetarian small plates crafted with local, seasonal ingredients in a cozy, historic setting.
Browns Bath
78.5 km
Classic British brasserie dining in Bath’s historic Old Police Station with seasonal menus and handcrafted cocktails.
Bill's Bath Restaurant
78.5 km
A vibrant British restaurant in central Bath, perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner near the Theatre Royal and Bath Abbey.
Bar + Block Steakhouse Bath
78.5 km
Experience expertly hand-cut steaks and vibrant British flavors in the heart of Bath at Bar + Block Steakhouse.
The Restaurant at The Bird
78.5 km
Stylish, sustainable dining in Bathwick with modern British dishes, festive charm, and stunning views of Bath Abbey.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Natural Treats Wiltshire - Raw Dog Food Store
74.8 km
Premium raw dog food and natural treats in Melksham, serving conscious pet owners with expert nutrition guidance.
Luca & Fig
77.8 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish home furnishings in Bath’s charming Luca & Fig boutique, where creativity meets quality.
National Trust Gift Shop
78.1 km
Discover unique, eco-friendly gifts and local artisan treasures in a historic Lacock High Street setting.
My Small World Toy Store
78.1 km
A charming boutique toy store in Bath offering handcrafted wooden toys, unique books, and exceptional personal service for all ages.
CoCo Chemistry Chocolates
78.1 km
Handcrafted luxury chocolates in the historic village of Lacock, blending tradition, quality, and charm for a truly sweet experience.
Quintessentially English
78.1 km
A charming Wiltshire gift shop in Lacock, specializing in handmade soaps, candles, and artisanal beauty products with a distinctly English character.
O L I V
78.1 km
Discover artisan candles, homewares, and unique gifts at O L I V, a charming boutique nestled in historic Lacock village.
Urban Outfitters
78.2 km
A vibrant lifestyle store in Bath offering on‑trend fashion, accessories, and quirky homewares in a creative, youth‑oriented space.
Hidden Store Bath
78.3 km
Discover ethically made artisan gifts and homewares that celebrate Bath’s rich heritage and creativity in a warm, curated boutique setting.
Bath Retro Store
78.3 km
Discover quirky gifts and nostalgic treasures in Bath Retro Store, a charming independent shop nestled in historic Abbey Green.
Hauslife
78.3 km
Discover unique artisan homewares and gifts in a warm, inviting boutique nestled in Bath’s historic Abbeygate Street.
Topping & Company Booksellers of Bath
78.4 km
A beloved independent bookshop in Bath offering rich literary selections, live author events, and a welcoming atmosphere daily until late evening.
Pinkart
78.4 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and local artistry at Pinkart, a charming boutique nestled in the heart of historic Bath.
Nām
78.4 km
Discover unique art and scents in a cozy Bath boutique offering distinctive homewares to inspire your living space.
The Roman baths shop
78.4 km
Discover unique Roman-inspired gifts and souvenirs in the heart of Bath’s historic city center.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Westbrook Inn
74.9 km
Charming countryside pub near Chippenham offering extensive vegan options, hearty meals, and a warm, relaxed atmosphere.
The Ivy Inn
75.3 km
A traditional Wiltshire pub offering cozy charm, fresh food, real ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Heddington.
The George Inn
77.4 km
A classic village pub in Sandy Lane offering hearty home-cooked meals, cozy rooms, and warm local hospitality.
Be At One - Bath
78.0 km
Vibrant cocktail bar in Bath’s Vaults with 100+ drinks, lively happy hours, and a buzzing atmosphere for every celebration.
Waggon & Horses
78.1 km
Historic 17th-century gastropub with cosy charm, scenic garden views of Silbury Hill, and a celebrated menu featuring local and gluten-free delights.
Juno Bar and Kitchen
78.2 km
Lively central Bath bar serving craft beers, bold burgers, inventive cocktails, and a buzzing social scene with pool and music.
ArtBar
78.3 km
A stylish cocktail bar and art gallery in Bath’s historic Abbey Hotel, blending creative ambiance with refined drinks and local charm.
The Hideout
78.3 km
Discover Bath’s hip-hop inspired whisky bar nestled in a historic cellar, blending quirky charm with expertly crafted cocktails and a welcoming vibe.
The Crystal Palace, Bath
78.3 km
Historic Victorian pub in Bath offering elegant interiors, a spacious garden, and a blend of traditional and contemporary British fare.
Sleight Magic Bar
78.4 km
Discover Bath’s only magic bar, where captivating close-up illusions meet expertly crafted cocktails in a vaulted cellar setting.
All Bar One Bath
78.5 km
A stylish and spacious wine bar on Bath’s historic High Street, blending modern comfort with vibrant city energy.
The Grapes
78.5 km
A historic Bath pub blending traditional charm with lively music, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in the city’s heart.
The Dark Horse
78.5 km
Discover Bath’s moody, intimate cocktail bar with inventive drinks, warm service, and a hidden underground charm.
Coeur De Lion
78.6 km
Discover Bath’s smallest pub, Coeur De Lion, where cozy charm meets local ales and simple, tasty fare in a welcoming atmosphere.
Vino Vino
78.6 km
Sophisticated yet relaxed wine and cocktail bar in Bath with artisan sharing plates and a vibrant al fresco terrace.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Historic
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
