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Poole Museum and its collection

Poole Museum
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Poole Museum, previously known as the Waterfront Museum, is a local history museum nestled in the Old Town area of Poole, Dorset. The museum, which is part of the Borough of Poole Museum Service, is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. It offers a comprehensive insight into the history of the town and its people, making it a valuable resource for those interested in learning more about Poole's rich heritage.

Accessibility of Poole Museum

Poole Museum is a highly frequented destination, ranking as the fifth most visited free attraction in South West England. The museum offers free entry to all visitors, making it an accessible and affordable option for tourists. This allows everyone the opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of Poole without any financial constraints.

Facilities at Poole Museum

In 2005, Poole Museum underwent a significant refurbishment, reopening in 2007 with several new public facilities. These include a terrace and a visitor lounge, both offering stunning views over Poole Harbour and the Old Town. These additions not only enhance the visitor experience but also provide a relaxing space to reflect on the museum's exhibits.

The Poole Logboat

The centrepiece of Poole Museum is the 2,000-year-old Poole Logboat. This Iron Age vessel was discovered in 1964 during dredging work in Poole Harbour. The Logboat is a significant archaeological find and provides a fascinating glimpse into the area's ancient maritime history. It is a must-see exhibit for anyone interested in archaeology or history.

Poole Pottery at the Museum

Poole Museum also dedicates an entire floor to the history of Poole Pottery. Visitors can view a selection of the company's products on display, providing a unique insight into the town's industrial past. The pottery exhibits showcase the craftsmanship and artistic talent that has been a part of Poole's identity for many years.

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History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Archaeology Historic house Industrial heritage Maritime

#108 Free museums in England #90 Archaeology museums in England #120 Industrial & heritage museums in England #41 Maritime museums in England #149 Free museums in United Kingdom #114 Archaeology museums in United Kingdom #141 Industrial & heritage museums in United Kingdom #50 Maritime museums in United Kingdom #151 Maritime museums in Europe

#108 Free museums in England #90 Archaeology museums in England #120 Industrial & heritage museums in England #41 Maritime museums in England #149 Free museums in United Kingdom #114 Archaeology museums in United Kingdom #141 Industrial & heritage museums in United Kingdom #50 Maritime museums in United Kingdom #151 Maritime museums in Europe

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Poole Museum
4 High Street
BH15 1BW Poole

Images of Poole Museum

Visitor information Poole Museum

Opening hours

Winter Opening:
Monday - Saturday 10am - 4pm
Sunday 12noon - 4pm
Closed: 5th December,
Christmas Eve (12pm onwards),
Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day

Summer Opening:
Daily 10am - 5pm

More opening hours

Admission

0+Free
More ticket prices

Facilities

Wheelchair accessible
Museum shop
Child-friendly

Location & Map

4 High Street, Poole

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Poole Museum have been found.

Poole Museum Reviews

Poole Museum has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    Poole Museum offers visitors an insightful look into the local history and maritime heritage of Poole. Located in a historic building near the quayside, the museum provides a good overview of the town's development from its early days to the present. Exhibits cover various aspects of Poole's past, including its maritime trade, pottery industry, and wartime experiences.

    Many visitors appreciate the well-curated displays and interactive elements, which make the museum engaging for both adults and children. The museum's strengths lie in its local focus and the way it brings Poole's history to life through artifacts, photographs, and informative panels. The staff are often noted for being friendly and knowledgeable.

    However, some reviewers mention that the museum is relatively small and can be explored quite quickly. A few visitors have commented that certain areas could benefit from updates or more in-depth information. The lack of parking directly at the museum is occasionally noted as an inconvenience, although public parking is available nearby.

    Despite these minor drawbacks, most visitors find Poole Museum to be a worthwhile stop for those interested in local history. It provides a solid introduction to the area's past and is particularly valued by those looking to understand Poole's maritime connections and cultural development over the centuries.

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