A guide to living in Poole, Dorset

Poole, the largest coastal town and seaport in Dorset, continues to captivate with its natural harbour and rich maritime history. Nestled between Bournemouth, the Isle of Purbeck, and the Jurassic Coast, Poole remains an ideal relocation spot for walkers, sailors, and those seeking luxury seaside living.​

Living in Poole - Sites of Interest

As the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Jurassic Coast, Poole offers endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether it's sailing lessons from the town’s natural harbour or coastal walks leading to natural wonders like Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door, there's something for everyone.​

Sandbanks Beach, renowned for its Blue Flag status, invites sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts alike. Enjoy a meal at the Jazz Café or indulge in activities like windsurfing, jet skiing, and kayaking.​

For family outings, destinations like Monkey World, Portland Bill Lighthouse, and the Lyme Regis Marine Aquarium offer educational and entertaining experiences.​

Foodies will delight in Poole's diverse culinary scene. From traditional fish and chips to upscale dining at Rick Stein's restaurant in Sandbanks, there's a plethora of options to satisfy every palate.​

Poole remains a haven for children. Brownsea Island, accessible by ferry, offers encounters with wild deer, peacocks, and squirrels. The RNLI headquarters continues to provide free swim safety classes, ensuring coastal safety for all. Poole Park, with its crazy golf, railway, soft play, ice skating, and amusement arcade, guarantees fun-filled days for the young and young at heart.​

For those seeking cultural experiences, the Lighthouse Arts Centre stands as the largest of its kind outside London, offering a robust lineup of live shows, theatre, and exhibitions. Shopping enthusiasts can explore the Dolphin Shopping Centre for high street brands or Poole’s traditional high street for independent shops and galleries. Unique events like the weekly Dream Machines bike gathering and 'Quay for my Car' nights add to Poole's vibrant community spirit. Annual events such as the Poole Harbour Boat Show, Sandbanks Beach Volleyball, and the British Beach Polo Championships continue to draw crowds.

Schooling

Poole offers a robust educational landscape. Top-performing schools include Parkstone Grammar School, Poole Grammar School, Poole High School, Lytchett Minster School, and Magna Academy . Hillbourne Primary School has received commendable Ofsted ratings, highlighting outstanding personal development and leadership 

For further education, The Bournemouth and Poole College maintains a 'Good' rating across all categories, providing quality education for young people and adults alike.

Numerous nursery and preschool options are available, with Poole Forest School remaining a popular choice for early childhood education.

Property

Property prices in Poole have seen some fluctuations. As of early 2025, the average property price stands at £428,000, with a median price of £332,000 . Detached properties average £633,264, while flats average £296,468 .​

For those seeking luxury, beachfront properties in Sandbanks continue to command premium prices, often exceeding £5,000,000. Renters can expect to pay around £7,500 per month for a quality family home.​

Set against the backdrop of the stunning Dorset countryside, Poole offers a blend of seaside charm, quality education, diverse culinary experiences, and ample entertainment options for all ages. If Poole sounds like your ideal relocation destination, contact the Whereshome team today to support your move.​

Transport

Poole's connectivity remains strong. The train station offers routes to London Waterloo in approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. Exeter and Brighton are around a 2-hour drive away. Southampton, with its ferry connections, is just an hour's drive. Poole's commercial port provides regular cross-channel freight and passenger ferry services, facilitating adventures to Jersey, Guernsey, and St. Malo in Brittany. Bournemouth Airport, only 8 miles away, serves nearly a million passengers annually, offering regular connections to Europe and beyond. Local bus services ensure regular links to Bournemouth, Christchurch, and surrounding areas.

A guide to living in Poole, Dorset

Poole effortlessly combines the charm of a historic coastal town with the conveniences of modern living, making it a standout choice for families, professionals, and retirees alike. With its outstanding schools, scenic coastline, cultural attractions, and easy transport links, it offers a well-rounded lifestyle that caters to both adventure and comfort. Whether you’re drawn by the prestigious properties of Sandbanks, the educational opportunities, or the vibrant local community, Poole promises a relocation experience rich in both quality and character.

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