Shrove Tuesday lands in February, which in Poole means the quietest, cheapest week of the year. Worth building a day around.
The pancakes
The independents are where to look: the Old Town lanes, around Ashley Cross, and Canford Cliffs village. Many add pancakes for the day. See cafes and delis.
What to do either side
A harbour walk with binoculars: the mudflats are at their fullest with overwintering waders through February. Upton Country Park gives you the easiest views. See wildlife.
Poole Museum is free and indoors, which February frequently calls for.
And the beaches are empty, which is its own argument. See February in Poole.