About Poole

Poole is a coastal town located in Dorset, England, with the postcode area BH15. It has a large natural harbour, which is one of the largest in Europe, making it a popular spot for boating and water sports. The town features a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, catering to both locals and visitors. Poole's waterfront offers pleasant views and opportunities for leisurely walks along the promenade. The town is also known for its sandy beaches, which attract families during the summer months. Poole's history can be traced back to the Iron Age, and it has developed into a significant maritime centre over the years. The local attractions include the Poole Museum, which showcases the town's maritime heritage, and the nearby Brownsea Island, accessible by ferry, which is part of the National Trust and offers nature walks and wildlife watching.

School Ratings in Poole

Poole is served by 93 schools. A further 3 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in Poole

Property prices average £438K across the area, and flats are the most common property type, typically selling for £317K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Poole

Local crime rates sit broadly in line with national averages. Anti-social behaviour accounts for the highest share in Poole, with 129 incidents logged in January 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Poole

Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Poole falls within the mid-range nationally for overall deprivation. Working-age employment is around the national average for the area. Income levels locally sit close to the national average.

Broadband and Mobile Internet in Poole

Most properties in Poole can access superfast or ultrafast broadband. 4G coverage is extensive and 5G is increasingly available across the area. For the latest speed predictions, visit Ofcom's broadband checker.

Property Prices 24,669 sales

Average Price £438K
£100 £17.58M
Detached £628K 7,743
Semi £334K 4,313
Terraced £301K 3,269
Flat £317K 8,343

Deprivation and Employment in Poole IMD 2025

The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Poole in the mid-range nationally. Employment and income levels are close to the England average, with a mix of opportunities across sectors. Overall living conditions are comparable to similar areas across the country.

Overall Deprivation
6/10
Income
5/10
Employment
5/10
Education
5/10
Health
5/10
Housing
8/10
Living Environment
6/10
8,348 Children (0-15) 18%
28,983 Working Age 61%
13,309 Older (60+) 28%
Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 35.1% of children in income-deprived families
Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 19% of over-60s in income-deprived households
Data from English Indices of Deprivation 2025 · Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0

Crime in Poole 780 crimes · January 2026

Average Crime Area

Poole experiences crime rates that are roughly comparable to the national picture. Violence & sexual offences is the most reported category, consistent with broader patterns across similar communities. Day-to-day life here reflects the usual mix of challenges found in any established city.

290 Violence & Sexual Offences
129 Anti-Social Behaviour
73 Shoplifting
70 Criminal Damage & Arson
54 Other Theft
48 Vehicle Crime
38 Burglary
31 Public Order
17 Drugs
14 Bicycle Theft
7 Other Crime
4 Robbery
3 Weapons
2 Theft from Person
Data from data.police.uk · Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.

Nearest Train Stations 6 stations

Poole Train Station 0.3 miles
Parkstone (Dorset) Train Station 1.4 miles
Hamworthy Train Station 1.7 miles
Branksome Train Station 2.6 miles
Holton Heath Train Station 4.5 miles
Wareham (Dorset) Train Station 6.3 miles

Location

Local Government

District Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole
Ward Poole Town
Constituency Poole
Parish Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, unparished area
Region South West

Notable & Famous People from Poole 13 people

Alan Notley
Biathlete
British biathlete
Andrew Musgrave
Cross-country skier
UK cross-country skier
David Hugh Jones
Screenwriter
English stage, television, and film director (1934-2008)
David Michael Clarke
Artist
British artist
Edgar Wright
Screenwriter
British film director, screenwriter and producer
Erica Batchelor
Figure skater
figure skater
Greg Lake
Singer
English bassist, guitarist, vocalist, songwriter and producer (1947–2016)