School Holidays in Poole

Poole holds children's attention well, largely because of the boats.

Free, every holiday

Poole Park with its lake and miniature railway, Hamworthy Park for shallow harbour water and a playground, Upton Country Park for space, and Poole Museum for the logboat. Watching the lifting bridge go up on the Quay is free and reliably works.

The big day out

Brownsea Island: a boat ride, red squirrels, peacocks and room to run.

Easter

Egg hunts and family events as the season restarts. See Easter in Poole.

Summer

Beaches, watersports lessons, the funfair at Baiter and a full events calendar. See Poole in summer.

October half term

See half term and Halloween in Poole.

When it rains

See wet weather fun and family fun.

Frequently asked questions

What can children do in Poole in the school holidays?

Poole Park's boating lake and railway, the shallow harbour beach at Hamworthy, Brownsea Island as an outdoor adventure, boat trips from the Quay, and holiday programming at the parks and attractions.

Is Poole expensive for a family holiday?

It does not have to be. The parks, the beaches and Poole Museum are free, and the harbour shore is endless. The costs are parking, boat fares and eating out, all of which can be managed.

What is there to do in Poole at half term?

Half-term programming runs at the parks, the museum and the arts centre, with Halloween events in October. See the half term and Halloween page.