Museum.
Gallery.
Venue.
Giant
Hippo.
Poole Museum opening autumn 2025
Scaplen's Court now open!
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.
Events and activities
Seaweed Workshops for Adults
Dive headfirst into the wonderful world of seaweed through hands-on art, movement, science, and storytelling.
Creative Writing Workshops for Adults
Join writer and performer Gemma Alldred of CoCreate for one or more creative writing workshops in September.
Take a look 'Through the Looking Glass'
Discover Poole’s rich and surprising natural history collection in a whole new light. Visit our FREE immersive audiovisual installation 'Through the Looking Glass' in Scaplen's Court and step into a world where history shimmers, shells spin, and sea creatures come to life in unexpected ways!
A town & a people
Shaped by the sea
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 Scaplen'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.
Visiting with a group
Organising a group outing with 10+ people? Get in touch with our friendly team before your visit and we’ll let you in on some great offers designed just for groups.
Whether you're a club, a language school, or just a bunch of curious minds, we’ve got something exciting waiting for you!
Treasure awaits in the museum shop
Step into a world of curious finds and coastal charm! From locally crafted gifts to history-inspired keepsakes, our shop is brimming with delightful discoveries. Whether you're hunting for the perfect present or a memento of your visit, there's something special waiting for you.
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.
