Museum.
Gallery.
Venue.
Giant
Hippo.
A town & a people
Shaped by the sea
Phase one incoming!
Culture is calling and it's got cake.
Scaplen’s Court and Garden is back and looking glorious. Step inside and time travel through centuries of stories shaped by the sea.
Fancy a cuppa? We've got that! Want to wander through a physic garden like a medieval apothecary? Go for it. Prefer to sit alfresco with something tasty and watch the world go by? You're in the right place.
And if you're curious to know more, hop on a guided tour and let the stories come to life. Or if you're feeling creative, book onto one of our events and get hands on, surrounded by stories.
Plan your visit
Getting here
Getting here is a breeze - whether you’re hopping on a train, catching a bus, cruising in by car, pedalling your bike, scooting along the quay, or just strolling in on foot. We’re right in the heart of Poole’s Old Town, so however you travel, you’re never far from a good story.
Opening times and admission
We welcome visitors year-round - and we're free to enter (yes, really!). To make the most of your visit, check our latest opening hours, seasonal schedules and the booking fees for our events and activities (hint - they're low cost!)
Accessibility and inclusion
We’re all about creating a space where everyone feels at home - whether you’re a local, a visitor, or a culture buff.
We’re committed to making Poole Museum and Scapeln's Court an inclusive, accessible place where every visitor can enjoy their experience fully, comfortably, and confidently.
Museum café
Our cosy café is the perfect pit stop - whether you’re fuelling up before your visit, taking a mid-exploration breather, or winding down after a day of exploring. Expect tasty treats, refreshing drinks, and a warm welcome.
Come curious.
Leave inspired.
Be one of the first to book onto an event at Scaplen's Court
What's on this summer:
- Seaweed Workshops – joyful, hands-on fun for families & adults
- Nature Creatives – writing and art in the walled garden
- Promenade – a walking performance through Poole’s stories
- Pop-up opera, immersive exhibitions and creative drop-ins
- Historic tours and engaging trails
Events and activities
Promenade Theatrical Tours
Promenade is a part walking and part performance exploration that plays with place, uncovering its quirks and inviting you to see it with fresh (and slightly mischievous) eyes.
Scaplen’s Court Welcome Walks
Step back in time at Scaplen’s Court, join our passionate volunteer guides for a captivating 20 –30 minute introduction to one of Poole’s most historic buildings
Making the Museum – Collections Preview Tours
Join the collections team for a special behind the scenes experience touring the museum galleries under construction.
Creative Writing Workshops for Adults
Join writer and performer Gemma Alldred of CoCreate for one or more creative writing workshops in September.
Consider staying
a while
Local, seasonal, and seriously tasty.
Tucked inside Scaplen’s Court on the ground floor, The Old Town Salt Pig serves up legendary quiches, tasty sausage rolls, vibrant salads, and sweet treats – all made with local sustainable ingredients.
Eat in, enjoy alfresco, or grab something on the go – it‘s your call.
Good food. Great coffee. Zero fuss
Latest news
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Become a member
Can't wait? We love the enthusiasm! Membership sign-ups aren’t open just yet, but if you’re eager to get involved, drop us a line and and we’ll keep you in the loop.
