Poole, a historic coastal town in Dorset, England, offers a captivating walking tour that delves into its rich past. Spanning two hours, the guided experience unravels the town’s founding in 1248, its battles with pirates, and its enduring legacy. From the Lord Baden Powell statue to the oldest Almshouse, each landmark tells a captivating story. With a leisurely pace and wheelchair accessibility, this tour promises an immersive and flexible experience. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the tour’s engaging storytelling and insightful historical insights make it a must-try. Discover the hidden gems of Poole and uncover the tales that have shaped this remarkable town.
This experience made our list of the 4 Best Tours In Poole.
Good To Know
- The guided walking tour of Historic Poole lasts 2 hours and covers the town’s history from its 1248 founding to pirate attacks.
- The tour highlights key landmarks like the Lord Baden Powell statue, Woolhouse, and the oldest Almshouse, providing immersive historical insights.
- The tour is wheelchair accessible, with a shorter version available upon request, ensuring accessibility for visitors of all abilities.
- Pricing starts at £15 per person, with a flexible booking process that includes no upfront payment and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- The tour combines engaging storytelling with historical context, showcasing Poole’s captivating past, including its Iron Age and Roman connections, as well as its role in the Newfoundland codfish trade.
Tour Overview
The guided walking tour of Historic Poole provides a 2-hour overview of the city’s rich history, starting from the 19 High Street location and offered in English.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and a shorter version is available upon request.
Participants will uncover Poole’s fascinating past, from its founding in 1248 by Sir William Longspee to its Roman connections and events like the Spanish attacks led by the infamous pirate Harry Paye.
Along the way, the live tour guide will share historical insights and point out highlights such as the Lord Baden Powell statue, the Woolhouse, and Poole’s oldest Almshouse.
Guests can expect a leisurely pace on mostly level pavement, allowing them to fully enjoy the city’s captivating heritage.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Poole.
Pricing and Reservation
The walking tour costs from £15.00 per person, with no upfront payment required to secure a booking. Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Here’s a quick overview of the pricing and reservation details:
-
Cost: From £15.00 per person
-
Booking: Reserve now and pay later – no upfront payment needed
-
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund
-
Availability: Check the starting times and book your preferred tour slot
It’s an easy and flexible way to experience the rich history of Poole on this guided walking tour.
Historical Insights
Founded in 1248 by Sir William Longspee, Poole boasts a history dating back to the Iron Age with Roman connections.
Notable events include Spanish attacks by the pirate Harry Paye and the town’s role in the lucrative Newfoundland codfish trade, which funded transformations.
Intriguing remnants, such as smuggling tunnels, also bear witness to Poole’s storied past.
This rich history is sure to captivate visitors on the guided walking tour.
Along the way, you’ll learn about Poole’s founding and its connections to pivotal moments, from piracy to prosperity.
With a mix of historical insights and engaging storytelling, the tour provides an immersive glimpse into the town’s vibrant past.
Tour Highlights
Along the guided walking tour, visitors can see the Lord Baden Powell statue and learn about Brownsea’s Viking connection, visit the historic Woolhouse divided into two buildings, and discover Poole’s oldest Almshouse featuring a medieval streetlamp.
The tour highlights include:
-
The Lord Baden Powell statue and insights into Brownsea’s Viking history.
-
A visit to the Woolhouse, a historic building split into two structures.
-
Discovering Poole’s oldest Almshouse, which showcases a medieval streetlamp.
-
Exploring Poole’s rich heritage, from its Iron Age origins to its connections with the Roman era and its history as a target for Spanish pirates.
Experience Details
On the guided walking tour, visitors can expect a slow-paced stroll along mostly level pavement, accompanied by a live tour guide who provides historical context and insights about Poole’s rich heritage.
The tour offers an immersive experience, allowing participants to discover the town’s medieval streetlamps, the Woolhouse’s unique dual-building structure, and the connection between Brownsea Island and Lord Baden Powell.
Wheelchair users will find the tour accessible, and a shorter version is available upon request.
With no upfront payment required and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Poole walking tour is a convenient and flexible way to explore the town’s captivating history.
Starting Point and Duration
The walking tour of Historic Poole starts at 19 High Street and lasts for approximately 2 hours, providing visitors ample time to explore the town’s captivating history and key landmarks.
The tour is conducted in English and is accessible for wheelchair users. Visitors can also request a shorter version if preferred.
The key details about the tour’s starting point and duration include:
-
Starting Point: 19 High Street
-
Duration: 2 hours
-
Language: English
-
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, with a shorter tour option available upon request.
Accessibility and Availability
The walking tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors of all abilities to explore Poole’s historic landmarks.
Plus, the tour operator offers a shorter version upon request, catering to those with limited mobility or time constraints.
This flexibility ensures that everyone can enjoy the captivating journey through Poole’s past.
Whether you have two hours to spare or require a more accessible option, the tour caters to diverse needs.
Participants can look forward to a leisurely pace along mostly level pavement, with the live guide providing insightful historical context throughout the experience.
Check the tour’s availability to secure your spot and uncover the fascinating history of this charming coastal town.
Cancellation Policy
Cancelling the tour up to 24 hours in advance allows guests to receive a full refund, providing flexibility for any last-minute changes in plans. This hassle-free cancellation policy is designed to offer peace of mind and ensure a seamless experience.
Here’s a quick overview of the key details:
-
Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the tour.
-
Full refund issued upon cancellation within the 24-hour window.
-
No upfront payment required to book the tour, making it easy to plan.
-
Flexible scheduling to accommodate guests’ needs and preferences.
This straightforward cancellation policy reflects the tour organizers’ commitment to customer satisfaction and delivering an enjoyable historical exploration of Poole.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The dress code for the walking tour is casual and comfortable. Participants are advised to wear sturdy walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather conditions, as the tour involves covering some distance on foot.
Can We Bring Our Own Refreshments?
Yes, participants can bring their own refreshments on the tour. The guided walking pace allows time to enjoy any snacks or drinks during the leisurely 2-hour exploration of Poole’s historic sites.
Are Photography and Videography Allowed During the Tour?
Photography and videography are generally allowed during the tour, though visitors should be mindful not to obstruct the guide or other participants. It’s best to check with the tour provider for any specific restrictions.
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?
The tour has no minimum age requirement, making it suitable for all ages. Children are welcome, though parents or guardians should accompany minors to ensure their safety and enjoyment throughout the 2-hour walking excursion.
Are Pets Allowed to Join the Tour?
The tour does not allow pets to join. It is a guided walking experience focused on the historic sights of Poole, and the safety and comfort of all participants is the priority. Visitors are advised to leave their pets at home.
Sum Up
Uncover Poole’s captivating past on this guided walking tour.
Explore the town’s history, from its founding in 1248 to its pirate encounters, while exploring highlights like the Lord Baden Powell statue and the oldest Almshouse.
With a leisurely pace, wheelchair accessibility, and flexible booking, this immersive experience offers a comprehensive and practical way to discover Poole’s rich heritage.
You can check if your dates are available here: