Museum.
Gallery.
Venue.
Giant
Hippo.
Poole Museum opening on 5 November
Soft launch phase underway!
We're back, and better than ever!
After a transformational redevelopment, our doors are (softly) open! Come and explore fresh spaces, fascinating stories, and a whole new museum experience.
We're in our soft launch phase until 5 November - and we need you to book your free entry tickets via our booking platform. It’s free, it's easy, and you'll be among the first to explore our new-look museum!
October half term fun!
We're bursting with creativity, curiosity, and spooky surprises for families of all ages this October half term - so book onto an event and keep the whole family entertained!
October half term fun!
Storytelling with Santa
Yoga at Scaplen's Court
Talks and Tours
Sound of 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.
The Old Town Salt Pig 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.
A town & a people
Shaped by the sea
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!
Weddings, events and hire
Poole Museum and Scaplen’s Court & Garden are amazing venues, perfect for celebrations, creative community events and fun stuff.
We’re currently offering bespoke bookings while we get to know the building better following its refurbishment. That means we don’t have set prices or packages just yet - instead, we’ll work with you to create something that suits your needs.
Email us to find out more - we can't wait to hear from 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.
