Staycation Activities in Poole (from a local blogger)

As we slowly begin to emerge from lockdown, an overseas holiday may not be on the agenda this year. So, a ‘staycation’ is the buzzword – an opportunity to genuinely appreciate a break in the beautiful country that we live in but too often taken for granted.

Whether it’s a day out from home, or a short break to get away, Poole and the surrounding area is just perfect.

Don’t be put off by the recent news coverage of overcrowded beaches at Bournemouth and Lulworth Cove. There are many other quieter spots to discover on the Dorset coast that are far less busy, but every bit as beautiful!

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you will find your own perfect ‘home from home’ getaway in and around Poole. Accommodation providers are opening up again, so check out cottages to rent in the area. Try Airbnb for a wide range of flats and rooms, or Cottages.com for a selection around the Poole area. Not your thing? Caravan and campsites are open for business and ready to welcome visitors again too. South Lytchett Manor Caravan and Camping Park – a 5 star, multi award-winning, dog friendly Dorset campsite near Poole is in a perfect location. Set in over 20 acres of tranquil parkland, but just a short drive into central Poole, it’s a rural idyll with great facilities. You can even stay in a Romany caravan or a shepherd’s hut!

From here, you can drive or walk to undiscovered gems, such as Upton Country Park, a stunning haven for wildlife, offering woodland walks, birdwatching, unrivalled views of Poole bay, and a Grade II listed manor house. It is perfect for picnics, too.

Staying in and around Poole, you are just a stone’s throw from Poole Harbour. Head down to the Quay and pick up the ferry to Brownsea Island. A short and picturesque trip across the bay takes you to this natural haven for wildlife, where you may even spot an exclusive red squirrel if you’re lucky! Get away from it all for the day, and it’s so easy to find a quiet spot to wonder at the fantastic views across the harbour to the other islands, to the Purbeck hills and Bournemouth. 

Poole is perfect for those who love walking and cycling. Check out the pathway around Holes Bay, for a scenic stroll or bike ride into Poole. It is also a fantastic place for birdwatching and fishing.

On the east side of Poole Quay, the area called ‘Baiter’ is a fabulous coastal walk too, offering views across the harbour towards Sandbanks (the ‘millionaire’s row of Poole!), and across to Studland. Either continue to skirt the edge of the bay towards Lilliput where kite surfers and sailors enjoy their sport, or loop back round through Poole Park, a hidden gem offering ornate gardens, lakes and tennis courts in a fabulous setting.

If you choose your ‘staycation’ in Poole, there’s certainly no shortage of activities to try, whatever your preference. And if you prefer to simply relax and enjoy the scenery, well, there’s plenty of that, too!