Poole's Best Coffee Shops | The Poole Guide

Poole’s coffee is better than its beach-town reputation suggests, provided you know to walk away from the chains.

The Old Town

The lanes behind the Quay hold the independents, tucked between galleries and small shops. Combine with the Cockle Trail and you have a decent morning. See Poole Old Town.

Ashley Cross

The concentration, and the one place that is reliably busy out of season. See Ashley Cross.

Canford Cliffs

The smart village version, handy if you are heading for the chines and the beach afterwards.

The Quay

Breakfast with a harbour view is its own argument, whatever is in the cup.

The beaches

Kiosks and sit-down cafes at the main access points from Sandbanks westward. Mostly seasonal.

If you are self-catering

The delis are where to buy beans as well as lunch. See cafes and delis.

Written by The Poole Guide. This guide draws on local knowledge and public information about Poole always check opening times and event dates with the venue before you travel.

Make it a stay, not just a day out

If this has you planning a trip, stay close enough to walk back for a jumper. The where to stay section has the Sandbanks hotels, the quieter beds out at Hamworthy and Broadstone, and the self-catering flats around the Quay, with the areas each one suits. For a longer stay or a family, a kitchen usually beats a room: self-catering compares them. Travelling with a dog? See dog-friendly stays.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best coffee in Poole?

In the independents, which cluster in the Old Town lanes, around Ashley Cross and in Canford Cliffs village rather than on the main shopping streets.

Are there beach cafes in Poole?

Yes, at most of the main beach access points from Sandbanks westward, from kiosks to proper sit-down cafes. Many are seasonal, so check before relying on one in February.

Poole's Coffee Shops