Poole drinks in three places, and they suit different evenings.
The Quay
Waterside terraces, masts in the foreground, the lifting bridge going up. Busy from late spring, lively at weekends, and worth it for a summer evening.
The Old Town
Behind the Quay, the lanes hold pubs that have been there a very long time, in a town whose trading and smuggling history is not far below the surface. Low ceilings, short bars, proper beer.
Ashley Cross
Ashley Cross is the year-round answer: a green with pubs and bars on all sides, busy on a wet Tuesday in February as well as in August.
For somewhere to eat afterwards, see restaurants.