Discover Poole Park

For those looking to discover a stunning green space to relax in the coastal town of Poole, famous for its large natural harbour and sandy beaches, beautiful Poole Park is the answer to your quest. Encompassing 110 acres, Poole Park has a large boating lake, floral gardens, children’s play parks and cycle track, making it a fantastic day out for the whole family.

Situated on the northern edge of Poole Park, you’ll also find Renaissance Sandbanks Road, our collection of 32 spacious one- and two-bedroom apartments designed to enhance wellbeing.

Let’s take a look at the fascinating history behind the Park below and some of the wonderful activities for a great day out this summer below…

History of Poole Park

Poole Park was formally opened in 1890 by the Prince of Wales. The project was the brainchild of Lord Wimborne who presented the land and salt- water lake project to create a ‘People’s Park and Recreation Ground’ to support the expansion of the wider Poole area in 1885. Originally designed h by Borough Surveyor John Elford in 1887, many of the original features and structural planting can still be seen today. A principal feature of Elford’s design was the inclusion of the cycle track, which opened two years after the formal opening. Throughout the rest of the decade, there was a thriving racing scene in Poole, with cyclists from the town’s two main cycling clubs – Poole Wesley Guild CC and Poole Cycling Club – regularly competing against each other at Poole Park. Interest in cycling dwindled during World War I but picked up again in the 1920s. Poole Wheelers cycling club was established in 1926 and is still in operation today, with members using the track for social rides rather than races.

Since then, the iconic Park has undergone many transformations and even had a zoo between 1963 and 1994, home to Himalayan black bears, chimpanzees, penguins and other animals. The Park is currently in the fourth and final year of its improvements project, Poole Park Life, part of the £2.7M heritage fund grant to improve the various amenities and spaces at the Park to make it even better for locals.

What to see and do

Thrill-seekers in search of adventure can try out various water sports on the lake, including kayaking, windsurfing and stand-up paddle boarding. Close to the water sports centre there’s also a 12-hole crazy golf course, sure to challenge even seasoned golfers! For those who prefer a slower pace of life, Poole Park has ample paths and gardens to explore as well as two cafes, great for a coffee or enjoying an ice cream in the sun.

This summer, be sure to check out Poole Harbour Festival, taking place on the 29th - 31st July 2022 at Baiter Park, at the southern edge of Poole Park. Over the course of three days, there’ll be live music, street food and funfair attractions, making it a must-do for the whole family.

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Make the move to Sandbanks Road and enjoy easy access to Poole Park as well as many shops, restaurants and cafes. To find out more about the homes available, or book a place onto the Pilates class, call the team on 01202 618 568 or email [email protected].