The Maritime Light Trail along the Quay, festive markets, pantomime and a lit harbour.
December is the one month Poole competes with anywhere on atmosphere.
See Poole in winter.
The Christmas Maritime Light Trail along the Quay is the centrepiece, alongside festive markets, pantomime at Lighthouse and New Year's Eve events. The harbour is at its best for birdwatching and prices are low.
Poole's crowds follow the school calendar and the weather: July and August are the peak, with half terms and bank holidays busy in miniature. Outside those, the beaches and the Quay are noticeably calmer.
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.