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Photo of a beach in Poole

Poole property & area guide

Poole

Poole is on the south coast of England, in the county of Dorset. Famed for its large natural harbour, beautiful beaches, and maritime heritage, Poole has a diverse population, which is reflected in the property market here. From affordable family homes to luxury beachfront properties in some of the UK's most sought-after areas, you will find a suitable home here. It's a popular destination for families, retirees, and professionals seeking a coastal lifestyle with excellent amenities and transport links.

Poole is a quaint coastal town uniquely positioned between Blue Flag beaches and a wealth of natural beauty. Very few UK locations offer the seaside lifestyle that Poole affords to its locals and holidaymakers.

In this guide, we will detail what it's like to live in Poole, the type of property available, and the local amenities that make it such a wonderful place to call home.

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

What’s happening to property prices in Poole?

As of Oct 2022, The average price of the following property type is:

Detached house:
£610,172
Semi-detached house:
£290,801
Terraced house:
£318,661
Flats:
£226,579


Existing properties up +14.1% as of Aug 2022 year on year


*Data sourced from the Land Registry https://landregistry.data.gov.uk

A brief history of Poole...

Poole’s name has its roots in the Celtic word Bol, which means a place near a creek or water. This connection to the water has been a constant thread, attracting Celts, Romans, Anglo-Saxons, and Normans. Poole has been inhabited for over 2,500 years, shaping it into the busy residential location we know it as today. Poole's strategic location as a port city meant it had excellent transport links. Today, residents benefit from easy access to major roads, a nearby airport (Bournemouth Airport), and regular ferry services, making it a well-connected and convenient place to live.

For centuries, Poole's historic harbour thrived as a vital trading hub, particularly with North America. However, the rise of deeper-water ports suited for larger ships eventually eclipsed its dominance. The once bustling trading hub now offers stunning waterfront living. The harbour's past commercial activity laid the groundwork for Poole's lively town centre. Today, charming cafes, independent shops, and modern shopping complexes line the streets, offering a modern mix of shopping and leisure options for residents.

Poole's resilience shone during World War II when it served as a crucial base and embarkation point for Allied forces during the D-Day invasion. This legacy of strength and resilience resonates with residents, building a sense of pride in their community.

Regeneration in Poole

Poole is currently undergoing significant regeneration aimed at revitalising the town centre. The project is designed to create a flourishing, sustainable environment for residents and businesses.

Benefits for residents

The regeneration plans will have numerous benefits for Poole residents. The programme aims to improve residents' quality of life by creating a community-focused environment with upgraded amenities, more green spaces, and improved connectivity.  Sustainable transport options will make it easier for residents to access the town centre, and revitalisation efforts will create new opportunities for employment and local businesses, improving the area’s economy in the long term.

Positive impact on the property market

The regeneration programme is expected to impact the property market in Poole positively. By improving the town’s infrastructure and public spaces, the area will become more attractive to potential homebuyers and investors. The introduction of new residential neighbourhoods, modern housing, and high-quality public spaces may drive up property values and demand.

The regeneration programme includes:

  • New residential neighbourhoods: Development of modern housing options to accommodate a diverse population.
  • Improved public spaces: Creating attractive and functional public areas that respect Poole's heritage.
  • Improved transport: Sustainable travel networks, including pedestrian-friendly routes and potential integrated transport hubs.
  • Cultural and visitor attractions: Projects such as the transformation of Poole Museum and enhancements to Poole Park Railway.
  • Economic development: Initiatives to boost local businesses and attract private sector investment.

The regeneration of Poole’s town centre is set to transform the area into a vibrant and sustainable community, building on its appeal as a place to live, work, and visit.

Property in Poole

A wide range of housing options is available to buyers in Poole, from properties for single professionals to couples, families, and retirees. Students enrolled at the nearby university and the popular holiday-let market also bolstered the property market. The variety of properties available has attracted buyers of all types and budgets. Whether you’re looking to put down your roots or add to your portfolio, there are certainly opportunities in the Poole market.

Poole's property prices vary depending on location, property type, and size. Detached houses are generally the most expensive, followed by semi-detached and terraced houses, with flats being the most affordable option.

The most popular locations to buy a property in Poole are Upton, Canford Heath, Hamworthy, Longfleet, Oakdale and Parkstone. These are highly desirable residential locations for families and professionals looking to settle in Poole. There is a good mix of property types, good schools, and a strong sense of community at more accessible prices. Sandbanks, Canford Cliffs, Lower Parkstone, and Branksome Park are some of the most prestigious neighbourhoods in the UK. Homes here are generally waterfront properties that make excellent large family homes and have a luxurious feel.

Investors looking to buy a holiday let should focus their search on property close to the coastline, either on or near The Quay Road and Poole’s historic harbour, which is only second to Sydney as the largest natural harbour in the world. Poole's stunning coastline makes it a lucrative market for holiday lets. Properties near the harbour and beaches have high rental potential.

The stable economy and growing population in Poole mean there is potential for long-term capital appreciation, particularly for well-located properties.

Types of property in Poole

Poole has a wide selection of property types available to buy, from cosy flats and terraced houses to grand detached homes and luxury apartments. Specifically, you’ll find many period homes in Poole, including Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian properties with bags of character and iconic features. These period homes typically offer wonderful internal and external space, which attracts families looking to climb the property ladder or secure their forever home. You’ll also find older properties that have been given a modern twist through independent, high-quality renovations, as well as new build flats and housing developments. Some of the local period homes have been remodelled by investors to create flats with tall ceilings and more space; we find these are now highly sought after by our clients. There are many modern developments with excellent local facilities and access routes and, of course, some of the finest luxury homes on the south coast in areas like Sandbanks, as well as large, modern homes built in more traditional styles.

Studio and one-bedroom properties in Poole are compact and conveniently located. They are perfect for young professionals or first-time buyers looking for an affordable way to enter the property market. Studio and one-bedroom properties are often found in central locations or purpose-built apartment blocks.

Terraced houses, a popular choice for families, offer more space than flats and often have small gardens. They are typically found in established neighbourhoods with good access to schools and amenities.

Semi-detached homes in Poole balance space and affordability, with two stories of living space and a private garden, ideal for families.

Detached houses for sale in Poole come in various sizes and styles, from traditional family homes to sprawling mansions. At the same time, bungalows here are ideal for retirees or those seeking single-story living.

Another popular choice in Poole are the local chalet bungalows which provide a flexible layout with some living space on a second floor beneath a sloping roof.

For investors, flats and apartments near the beaches and harbour have high rental potential for short-term stays, while properties close to the university might be suitable for student rentals, offering a steady income stream.

View properties for sale in Poole

Explore properties across Poole’s residential neighbourhoods

Luxury living

  • Sandbanks & Canford Cliffs: These prestigious neighbourhoods offer buyers waterfront properties, sprawling mansions, exclusive yacht clubs, and a luxurious atmosphere. They are perfect for those seeking the ultimate in coastal living.

Family-friendly communities

  • Parkstone & Lower Parkstone:  Popular with families, these areas offer a good mix of property types, excellent schools (like Parkstone Grammar School), parks, and a strong sense of community.
  • Branksome Park & Upton:  These established neighbourhoods provide a balance between spacious family homes, green spaces such as Upton Country Park, and proximity to everyday amenities.

Up-and-coming areas

  • Hamworthy & Longfleet: Offering a mix of housing options at more affordable prices, these areas are seeing an increase in popularity, particularly with young families and professionals. They also have good transport links.

Waterside living

  • Poole Quay & Harbourside: Ideal for those who crave a lively atmosphere and stunning harbour views. They offer a mix of apartments, flats, and character properties alongside shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Other areas

  • Poole Town Centre: If you enjoy the buzz of city life, the town centre has apartments and flats for sale near shops, entertainment venues, and public transport.
  • Oakdale: This quiet suburban area offers a mix of properties suited for families and retirees, with good access to local amenities.

Schools, colleges and universities

Poole boasts a variety of primary and secondary schools with good or outstanding Ofsted ratings.

Lilliput First School, Courthill Infant School, Longfleet Primary School and Baden Powell Junior School are popular choices. Poole Grammar for Boys, Parkstone Grammar for Girls, QE, Poole High School also fall within the Poole catchment area and are well sought after. The area also has an excellent selection of private schools for pupils of all ages, such as Bouremouth Collegiate School, Canford School, Yarrells, Castle Court, Dumpton, plus many others.

There are plenty of higher education study options in the local area. The Bournemouth and Poole College offers a selection of professional courses and apprenticeships. Furthermore, Bournemouth University is very much present in Poole with the campus situated in Poole itself.

Transport

Poole has an excellent transport network for residents travelling to work or school. Local roads are well designed for efficient travel within Poole and surrounding areas, including main arterial roads heading to other coastal towns and up to London. Regular, reliable bus services operate throughout Poole and join neighbouring Bournemouth. The local council has also updated cyclist routes to help make cycling across the region safer and more accessible.

If you’re travelling out of town, Poole Train Station is predominantly serviced by South Western Railway trains but links to other national and international train services further afield. National Express coaches also stop in Poole, which can offer a leisurely and cost-effective way to reach other areas of the UK. 

Poole is also a short distance from Bournemouth Airport with local and international routes to popular destinations operated by TUI and Ryanair. 

Last but not least, Poole Port makes travelling to the continent even easier with regular ferry services.

Things to do in Poole

Poole Harbour is arguably the most famous landmark in Poole. The harbour has many restaurants, water sports activities and areas to sit with for a picnic with fantastic sea views for residents to enjoy.

You can take a ferry from the harbour to beautiful Brownsea Island, owned by the National Trust. The island offers a day or more adventuring to see natural habitats and wildlife, as well as a lagoon and uninterrupted views across the mainland and the Purbeck Hills. The island even has its own campsite, so you can enjoy this area of outstanding natural beauty from under the stars.

There are many areas of natural beauty around the Borough of Poole, including the award-winning Poole Bay beaches, Poole Park and many other parkland areas worth investigating. Locals often spend summer holidays here, enjoying their local area in favour of travelling abroad.

For culture, Poole Museum offers families plenty to see and learn about the local area, including the infamous harbour. The museum is joined to a beautiful herb garden worthy of a stroll before or after your visit. Poole Museum remains free and is ideal for a convenient day out.

Community in Poole

Poole residents benefit from a community with plenty of active participation from its residents. This helps to build a strong sense of belonging and engagement. This lively local involvement makes Poole an attractive place to live, offering a welcoming and connected environment for those who have recently moved to the area. Below are a selection of community Groups in Poole:

  • Poole Communities Trust: A charitable organisation dedicated to improving economic and community growth in Poole's less advantaged areas, providing residents with valuable community assets and support.
  • Local Community Centres: Providing spaces for local residents to use for social, recreational, and educational activities.
  • Branksome Community Centre: Offers affordable activities to residents of all ages and abilities, providing a welcoming space to connect with others.
    Poole Community Exchange: Offer support through initiatives like weekly meals and food distribution. With dedicated volunteers and local partnerships, PCE's mission is to ensure no one is left behind.
  • Help and Kindness: Promote economic and community growth in disadvantaged areas of Poole by developing and managing community assets, encouraging residents to have active lifestyles, offering learning opportunities, and creating social connections for residents.

This month's featured properties

Browse this month’s featured properties from Bournemouth, Poole, Wimborne, Ferndown, and Ringwood below. 

Our property listings are updated regularly, so check back if you can’t find your perfect property now.  Alternatively, contact our team of Poole property experts to discuss your next move.

Search for a property


More information

Click the links below to discover more about Hearnes and our range of property services. From property valuations to meeting the team and reading recent reviews, you can find everything you need to know below.

Aerial photo of Wimborne Minister

Search for your next property

Search for your next property

Please view our current listings. Alternatively, get in touch if you don’t see any listings that match your criteria. We provide expert guidance to support your property search.

Photo of a river

What's your property worth?

What's your property worth?

Don’t hesitate to contact Hearnes for more information on how we will accurately value your property. Our team are on hand to fully explain our property valuation service so you know exactly what to expect.

Aerial photo of Badbury Rings

Marketing your property

Marketing your property

Do you have a question about how we’ll market and sell your property? Read on for answers to all your queries about our comprehensive service for sellers today. We guarantee 100% clarity from the outset.

Photo of a bench overlooking a river

Latest info

Latest info

We write regular posts to share information on the world of property. Many of our posts provide real-time insights into local property trends. Take a look to find out more.

Photo of Poole beach huts

Our reviews

Our reviews

Here at Hearnes, we have many happy clients. Read some of our reviews to see how we have helped buyers and sellers just like you.

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View our branches

View our branches

We have five branches, each dedicated to helping buyers and sellers in their local area. Find information, including contact details, for each of our branches here.

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Meet our team

Meet our team

Each of our branches has a dedicated and professional team ready to help buyers and sellers in their local area. Find out more about each of our team members here.

Aerial photo of Blue Lagoon, Lilliput, Poole

Where service counts

Where service counts

Here at Hearnes, we are a people business operating within the property sector. We are all about service and going the extra mile to ensure our clients get the home they want as smoothly as possible.

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Contact us

Contact us

We're always happy to help. Whether you are looking to sell your home, buy a new one, or just want to chat with someone about how we can help with a stage in the process, get in touch, and we'll see what we can do!

Aerial photo of Wimborne Minister

Search for your next property

Search for your next property

Please view our current listings. Alternatively, get in touch if you don’t see any listings that match your criteria. We provide expert guidance to support your property search.

Photo of a river

What's your property worth?

What's your property worth?

Don’t hesitate to contact Hearnes for more information on how we will accurately value your property. Our team are on hand to fully explain our property valuation service so you know exactly what to expect.

Aerial photo of Badbury Rings

Marketing your property

Marketing your property

Do you have a question about how we’ll market and sell your property? Read on for answers to all your queries about our comprehensive service for sellers today. We guarantee 100% clarity from the outset.

Photo of a bench overlooking a river

Latest info

Latest info

We write regular posts to share information on the world of property. Many of our posts provide real-time insights into local property trends. Take a look to find out more.

Photo of Poole beach huts

Our reviews

Our reviews

Here at Hearnes, we have many happy clients. Read some of our reviews to see how we have helped buyers and sellers just like you.

Photo of a woodland walk

View our branches

View our branches

We have five branches, each dedicated to helping buyers and sellers in their local area. Find information, including contact details, for each of our branches here.

Photo of a country walk

Meet our team

Meet our team

Each of our branches has a dedicated and professional team ready to help buyers and sellers in their local area. Find out more about each of our team members here.

Aerial photo of Blue Lagoon, Lilliput, Poole

Where service counts

Where service counts

Here at Hearnes, we are a people business operating within the property sector. We are all about service and going the extra mile to ensure our clients get the home they want as smoothly as possible.

Photo showing an anchor in front of a building

Contact us

Contact us

We're always happy to help. Whether you are looking to sell your home, buy a new one, or just want to chat with someone about how we can help with a stage in the process, get in touch, and we'll see what we can do!