Events & Filming in Poole

Running an event or filming in Poole: permissions, locations and who to approach first.

Poole is a popular location, and the permissions are more involved than they look because so much of it is water.

Who to approach

BCP Council for council land, beaches, parks and roads. Poole Harbour Commissioners for anything on or affecting the harbour and its navigation. The National Trust for Brownsea Island and Studland. Start early: harbour and beach permissions are not quick.

Locations

Poole Quay and the lifting bridge, the Georgian Old Town, the harbour and its islands, Sandbanks and the chines, and the heath and coast beyond the chain ferry.

Protected areas

Much of the harbour and the surrounding heath is protected habitat with seasonal restrictions, particularly in the bird nesting and overwintering seasons. See Respect, Protect, Enjoy.

Venues

For indoor and private space, see venue hire.

Common questions

Frequently asked questions

Do you need permission to film in Poole?

Filming on public land, beaches, parks and the harbour generally requires permission. BCP Council handles council land, and Poole Harbour Commissioners handle the harbour and its waters. Approach them early.

Can you hold an event on Poole Quay?

Poole Quay hosts a large part of the town's events programme. Event permissions, licensing and harbour considerations are handled by the relevant authorities, so apply well in advance.

What are the best filming locations in Poole?

The Quay and the lifting bridge, the Georgian Old Town, the harbour and its islands, Sandbanks and the chines, and the heath and coast across the water at Studland.

Planning your visit?

Where to stay in Poole

Sandbanks hotels, harbourside flats a street back from the Quay and the quieter beds out at Hamworthy and Broadstone, with the areas each one suits.

Where to stay →