Poole Museum is an excellent wet weather attraction, that can be enjoyed during a rainy day at South Lytchett Manor. It is situated in the Old Town area, just off the high street and close to bustling Poole Quay. Entrance to the museum is free (donations welcomed) making it an ideal choice for families holidaying on a budget.

Poole Museum tells the inspiring story of a town and its people shaped by the sea.

Following a transformational redevelopment, the museum has reopened with a bold new vision and an exciting visitor experience.

Explore the NEW Poole Museum and discover:

Six brand-new galleries spread across five floors
Three immersive maritime galleries – Harbour Life, Setting Sail, and Shipwreck!
The Poole Iron Age Logboat – nearly 10 metres long and the largest ever found in Southern Britain, now on open display
Two flexible exhibition spaces hosting a dynamic programme of touring and temporary exhibitions
Interactive displays and engaging new exhibits
Family-friendly trails for children of all ages
A vibrant calendar of events, workshops, and activities
A museum shop featuring locally inspired gifts and products

Also part of the museum estate is Scaplen’s Court & Garden, a beautifully preserved medieval merchant’s house with a tranquil herb and physic garden. It’s also home to the museum’s inviting café – The Old Town Salt Pig.

Free entry ensures everyone can explore, stay a while, then return again and again.

Accessibility info
Welcome to Poole for All

At Poole Museum, we believe that history and culture should be for everyone, and that every visitor can explore independently, equally, and with dignity throughout the museum.

We’ve made some big changes to help everyone feel welcome and comfortable: The entire ground floor of all public areas is now on one level. We’ve installed a larger lift in Oakley’s Mill and, for the first time, added a platform lift in Scaplen’s Court. This lift has two stops to accommodate the unique layout of the historic building. We’ve created generous circulation areas and clear orientation spaces to help you find your way with ease. New ground floor accessible toilets can be found in both Poole Museum and Scaplen’s Court.