Culture, Poole | Posted on February 2nd, 2026 | return to news

Growing visitor numbers prove Poole is popular

During the winter, Poole saw a surge in visitors to the town, and business vacancies are less than half the national average.

Poole is seeing a surge in visitors.

Five million trips were made to the town centre during the winter period, with returning visitors having more than doubled.

Businesses are backing the town with increased investment. Vacancy rates in the town centre are less than half the national average at just eight per cent, with big-name brands and independent traders creating a thriving offering for residents and visitors.

Cllr Millie Earl, leader of BCP Council, said: “As someone who was proudly born in Poole – and still calls it home – it’s fantastic to see our town shining brightly.

“This momentum shows what I and so many other people have always known: Poole is an incredible place, filled with remarkable people and a huge amount to celebrate.

“It’s brilliant to see so many visitors enjoying the best of what we have to offer over the winter period, whether that’s a splash of culture at Poole Museum, a show at the Lighthouse, a dip along the coast, or just a spot of shopping.

“Working with partners, including Poole BID and local businesses, gives us a really solid foundation to continue that momentum throughout the course of 2026 and ensure that Poole remains a place that everyone can be as proud as I am to call their home.”

The newly reopened Poole Museum, Scaplen’s Court & Garden, has quickly established itself as a must-visit attraction, embedding itself as a culturally significant museum, gallery and venue.

More than 50,000 people visited the museum in its first 10 weeks of opening, exploring the Iron Age logboat, giant wooden hippo and newly restored Scaplen’s Court.

The museum officially opened in November 2025 following a three-year, £11 million revamp supported by BCP Council, the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Arts Council England, Historic England and charitable trusts and foundations.

Jaine Fitzpatrick, interim director of Poole Museum, said: “The redevelopment of Poole Museum has transformed it into a vibrant cultural venue, gallery and museum for all in Poole.

“We’ve welcomed tens of thousands of visitors to our local area in just a few weeks, with the increased footfall benefitting local businesses and ensuring Poole remains a vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike.

“In 2026, we’ve got even more exciting experiences planned, which include nationally renowned exhibitions and innovative wellbeing initiatives that will attract even more visitors and interest into Poole.”

Recent initiatives from Poole BID have helped to deliver enhancements to the local area, with the introduction of Dusty – the BID’s chief cleanliness officer – clearing graffiti and keeping streets tidy.

Improved multi-agency work, led and funded by Poole BID, is set to deliver a safer, stronger Poole, with a more connected and reassuring presence from Dorset Police’s neighbourhood policing team, BCP Council’s CSAS officers and Poole BID’s security staff.

Jacqui Rock, chief executive of Poole BID, said: “Poole has had a fantastic Christmas period, with great footfall and a real buzz in the town centre.

“We’re especially proud that Poole’s vacancy rate is just eight per cent – well below the national average – reflecting the hard work Poole BID does to support businesses and attract new traders, helped by the great spirit across the town.

“Through initiatives like Dusty – our grounds maintenance machine, which is used to ‘spring clean’ areas where businesses need it – alongside our work on safety, events and marketing, we’re focused on keeping Poole welcoming, vibrant and thriving into 2026 and beyond.”

New jobs are being created and protected thanks to ongoing investment, with the RNLI previously announcing its intention to move all shipbuilding to Poole from 2027, fresh proposals from Loungers, and a long-term contract for Rockley Watersports at Poole Park.

Lush has continued its association with Poole with the opening of a standalone hair salon along the Quay.