Poole Museum is an institution full of intriguing historical relics housed in a renovated 15th-century structure. The building is part of the charm, as a modern version of a Victorian quayside warehouse. Spend an afternoon moving through the various galleries to see fascinating collections excavated in this part of the world.
The main attraction of the site is the 2,300-year-old Poole Logboat, which was built from a single tree. Note the blade marks that remain in the wood from millennia ago. The boat is the largest of its kind excavated in southern England, with a length of almost 33 feet (10 metres). It is thought to have carried up to 18 passengers.
Each floor has a distinctive gallery theme that covers a part of Poole’s history. The famous logboat is in the ground floor exhibit, along with certain prehistoric items. Purchase souvenirs at the gift shop next to the entrance.
Upstairs in the first floor gallery, marvel at the relics that complete the tale of the city from the Stone Age to present day. A 19th-century ship’s binnacle, which contains a compass, is among the highlights.
Explore the second floor gallery and play with the features of the interactive 1950s kitchen. From the displays, learn about important people in the city’s beginnings, such as 18th-century merchant Benjamin Lester. Inspect an old gas mask and other artifacts from the 20th century, when the area was under threat of German attack during World War II.
The top floor is home to the museum’s collection of pottery as well as clay items made or found locally. Enjoy the views of Poole Harbour from the terrace and visitor lounge, which serves refreshments.
Entrance is free for the complex. It opens daily from morning until late afternoon, with later opening times on Sunday.
Poole Museum is near the waterfront in the Old Town area of the city. The Poole Lifeboat Station, Poole Tourism Welcome Centre and the port from which ferries depart for France are among the nearby landmarks.
