A Bit about Poole

History

With the largest natural harbour in Europe, Poole has often been defined by its proximity to the sea. An Iron Age ship found under its waters shows how long people have been settling and sailing here. The name “Poole” comes from a Celtic word, again showing the history of humans in the area.

Poole grew throughout the Middle Ages and in the time of Elizabeth I, a sheriff was appointed to oversee the town. The position still exists today, one of the few active sheriff’s roles in the UK. Notable events in Poole’s history include everything from smuggling and customs raids to the first ever scout camp, on Brownsea Island. Today Poole is still a destination for water sports and sailing, as well as for wildlife lovers.

Location and Travel

Situated in the eastern part of Dorset, on England’s south coast, Poole is just a short distance from the iconic Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. You can sail into Poole on your own private boat, or arrive at the Port of Poole on a ferry from Cherbourg, Saint-Malo or the Channel Islands. International visitors may also want to take advantage of the nearby Bournemouth Airport.

For those travelling from Cornwall, Devon or Bristol, the M5 will carry you into Dorset, whilst those coming from the North can use the M1 and M40 before carrying on to the M3, M27 and A31. The A338 and 34 are also nearby. If you don’t want to drive yourself, National Express coaches regularly run to Poole, including directly from London Victoria. Another alternative is to take the train. Poole is on the London Waterloo to Weymouth line.

Local Amenities

Modern Poole is heavily dependent upon water sports, including sailing, surfing and powerboating. You can also enjoy water sports on the lake at Poole Park, with an ice rink, crazy golf course and soft play area nearby. Sandbanks Beach is internationally renowned. People who like the outdoors also enjoy visiting Poole and the surrounding area, particularly the Jurassic Coast, for its beautiful scenery and thriving wildlife.

For the more historically minded, Poole has its own museum and heritage trails. Modern culture comes from a large arts centre. Poole Stadium hosts speedway and the town has its own dog racing track. Family fun can come from the Tower Park Entertainment Centre, which hosts a cinema, bowling alley and other facilities.

The entertainment centre is also one of many places you can eat. Restaurants, cafés, bars, pubs and takeaways line Poole Quay and the high street. Poole Old Town and nearby villages have their own eateries. The high street also hosts many different shops, both national and local independents, and there is a larger shopping centre with big name brands.

Providing HR Support to Poole Businesses

There may be a diverse range of businesses in Poole, but if they have staff then they will have human resource issues to manage. Whether you are a small local business that wants to keep things simple, a growing company with larger ambitions, or you just have one big project that needs your immediate focus, The HR Dept has the expertise you need to ease the pressure and meet your obligations. Get in touch with us today.