Poole | Posted on May 18th, 2026 | return to news

Beating of the bounds takes place in Poole

The historic event on Saturday 16 May to mark the boundary of Poole included civic dignitaries and Poole Sea Cadets.

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The new Poole Town Council held a Beating of the Land Bounds on Saturday 16 May. Beating of the Bounds is a centuries-old tradition dating back to medieval Britain.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mark Howell, cycled around the boundary of Poole, stopping for ceremonies with representatives from neighbouring councils at Upton Country Park, Canford Suspension Bridge and Branksome Dene Chine before arriving for a parade on the Quay.

The Sheriff of Poole, Cllr Karen Rampton, led the parade and held a mock Piepowder Court on the Quay.

Also attending was the Deputy Mayor of Bournemouth, Cllr George Farquhar, along with Poole Sea Cadets.

Beating of the Bounds goes back at least to Tudor times in Poole. In past centuries when maps were not generally available, the event helped pass on knowledge of boundaries to new generations. In Poole, two children have historically accompanied the mayor in the boundary marking.

Events during the day included a free Tai Chi session with the mayor in the Walled Garden at Upton Country Park, arts and music entertainment by students of Canford School next to the suspension bridge over the Stour, and Royal Life Saving Society activities on Branksome Dene beach.