Scaplen's Court& Garden
Free to visit. Full of character.
Scaplen's Court and Garden is open to everyone following a transformational redevelopment of the entire Poole Museum estate.
It's still full of wonky walls, but now with more coffee, creativity, and character than ever before - and it's open year round - not just when we're all in a good mood over the summer months.
Scaplen's history
Want to uncover the story behind one of Poole’s most fascinating buildings? From its medieval beginnings as a bustling merchant’s house, through centuries of change, survival, and reinvention, Scaplen’s Court has quietly witnessed it all. Step inside its history and you’ll find tales of trade, family life, and resilience layered into every beam and stone, right up to its present-day life as a much-loved heritage gem. Explore the journey and see how this remarkable place has evolved through the ages.
The Old Town
Salt Pig
Your new go-to for coffee, cake, unbelievable quiche, a deliciously refreshing cold drink or two, and the essential catching up.
Creative events
We've got events, activities and workshops for all ages - from wellbeing sessions to creative writing, drawing workshops, exhibitions, performances and everything in between!
Hire our spaces
We've got plenty of spaces to hire within Scaplen's wonky walls, for your own unforgettable moments - from parties to poetry readings, corporate functions to community events, and even weddings - we can cater for it all!
Tours and trails
Tours and trails through Poole’s past - discover the stories that shaped this little house (or grand residence back in the merchant days). Just ask at the welcome desk as we've got something for all ages!
Walled garden
Tucked within the historic charm of Scaplen’s Court, is our tranquil walled herb and physic garden, a little pocket of calm just waiting to be discovered. Lovingly tended all year-round by our brilliant team of gardening volunteers, it bursts with fragrance, colour, and stories of plants once used for healing and flavouring alike.
Whether you’re catching up with friends and a sweet treat from the cafe, or simply bringing a book and letting your imagination wander, it’s the perfect place to pause, unwind, and lose yourself for a while - or even a whole day!
