Winter is when Poole gets interesting, if your idea of interesting involves a thermos and a pair of binoculars.
Why winter suits the harbour
Poole Harbour is a RAMSAR wetland, and from autumn the mudflats fill with waders and wildfowl in tens of thousands. In August you see boats. In January you see birds, and rather more of them than most people expect.
The best winter walks
Upton Country Park for level, surfaced paths and open views over the mudflats. The most accessible birdwatching around the harbour.
Holes Bay for the same thing from a different angle.
The shoreline from Baiter to Hamworthy, flat and continuous, with the town across the water.
The beaches, completely empty, hard light, and a wind that will remind you where you are.
What to take
A windproof layer, whatever the forecast said. Binoculars. The sun sets early and the shoreline paths are unlit in places.
Where to end up
The Old Town pubs are what winter is for. See Poole in winter and wildlife.