Poole Quay is where the town started and where it still gathers. It is a working waterfront rather than a restored one: commercial boats, fishing craft and the cross-harbour ferries use it alongside the restaurants.
What is here
Boats to Brownsea Island and round the harbour leave from the Quay. Poole Museum sits on it, free, with the Iron Age logboat inside. The lifting bridge opens on a schedule to let masts through, and the Twin Sails Bridge crosses to Hamworthy.
Eating and drinking
Waterside terraces run most of its length, with seafood the obvious order given the boats landing a few metres away. See restaurants and pubs and bars.
Behind it
The Old Town runs straight back from the water, and the Cockle Trail links its historic buildings on a free marked route.
When to come
Summer evenings are the busiest and the best. Out of season the Quay is quiet, and the harbour is arguably better for it.