Poole, a historic coastal town, offers a captivating glimpse into its rich heritage through the "Walking Tour of Historic Poole." This guided experience, priced at a reasonable £15 per person, invites visitors to explore key landmarks, from the Lord Baden Powell statue to the medieval streetlamp, while uncovering the town’s fascinating Viking connections and its pivotal role in the codfish trade. Wheelchair accessible and running daily, the two-hour tour promises an engaging and leisurely exploration of Poole’s diverse history, leaving one intrigued to delve deeper into the intricate tapestry that weaves this community’s past.
Good To Know
- The guided walking tour of historic Poole covers key highlights like the Lord Baden Powell statue, Woolhouse, and medieval streetlamp over a 2-hour duration.
- The tour provides insights into Poole’s diverse cultural heritage, including its Viking connection, smuggling history, and the impact of the Codfish trade.
- The tour is wheelchair accessible, runs daily, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
- Participants can explore Poole’s Viking roots, showcased through the Lord Baden Powell statue, Woolhouse division, and medieval streetlamp at the oldest Almshouse.
- The Codfish trade significantly shaped Poole’s economy and society, with the tour discussing its rise and decline over the years.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The guided walking tour of historic Poole offers visitors an immersive experience into the town’s rich past.
Priced at £15 per person, the tour lasts for 2 hours at a leisurely pace, covering the key highlights of the historic town.
Visitors can explore the Lord Baden Powell statue, the Woolhouse, and a medieval streetlamp at the oldest Almshouse, while learning about Poole’s history from the Iron Age to its connections with the Romans and the Codfish trade.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and runs daily, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Guests can reserve now and pay later, ensuring a convenient and flexible booking experience.
Tour Highlights
Exploring the Lord Baden Powell statue, visitors will learn about Brownsea’s intriguing Viking connection.
The tour then ventures to the Woolhouse, which was divided into two distinct buildings over time.
A medieval streetlamp at Poole’s oldest Almshouse offers a glimpse into the town’s rich history, from the Iron Age to its Roman associations.
Along the way, captivating stories unfold, from Poole’s coastline reclamation to the daring exploits of pirate Harry Paye and the impacts of the Codfish trade.
This immersive experience provides a comprehensive understanding of Poole’s multifaceted past, engaging visitors with its diverse cultural heritage.
Historical Context
Poole’s storied past dates back to 1248, when it was founded by Sir William Longspee to fund his Crusade. Over the centuries, Poole has been shaped by significant historical events, from smuggling tunnels to the transformative impact of the Codfish trade from Newfoundland.
| Era | Event |
|---|---|
| Iron Age | Poole’s Viking connection |
| Roman Era | Poole’s connections with the Romans |
| Middle Ages | Founding of Poole in 1248 |
| 17th-19th Centuries | Smuggling tunnels, Spanish attacks, and Codfish trade |
Poole’s rich history continues to captivate visitors, offering a glimpse into the town’s resilience and adaptability over the centuries.
Accessibility and Meeting Point
Tour participants can rest assured that the walking tour of historic Poole is wheelchair accessible, primarily on level pavement.
The meeting point for the tour is easy to find – look for the Red Door on the left. This location provides a convenient and central starting point for the journey through Poole’s rich history.
To ensure a seamless experience, it’s recommended to:
- Wear comfortable shoes that can handle the pace of the 2-hour tour
- Dress appropriately for the weather, as there are no planned breaks during the tour
- Arrive a few minutes early to meet the guide and prepare for the engaging exploration ahead
Customer Feedback
The walking tour of historic Poole has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from past participants. Based on a single review, the tour has earned a full 5-star rating from a satisfied customer.
Reviewer Julie from the United Kingdom praised the guide’s thorough knowledge of the town’s history and her ability to navigate the tour route effectively.
Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour does not include any planned breaks.
Exploring Poole’s Viking Connection
Viking-era influences are deeply woven into Poole’s rich tapestry of history. The guide will lead you to the Lord Baden Powell statue, where you’ll learn about Brownsea’s Viking connection.
Key highlights include:
- Exploring the Woolhouse and its division into two buildings, a testament to Poole’s Viking heritage.
- Discovering a medieval streetlamp at Poole’s oldest Almshouse, offering a glimpse into the town’s past.
- Learning about the impact of the Codfish trade, a vital industry that shaped Poole’s economic and social landscape over the centuries.
These captivating insights into Poole’s Viking roots will transport you back in time and deepen your appreciation for this historic town.
Uncovering Poole’s Codfish Trade Impact
Poole’s Codfish trade was a vital industry that significantly shaped the town’s economic and social landscape over the centuries. As Poole’s connection to Newfoundland flourished, the town became a hub for the lucrative codfish industry. This trade not only brought economic prosperity but also introduced new cultural influences, changing the architectural landscape and social dynamics of Poole.
| Year | Codfish Landed (tonnes) | Value (£) | Key Events |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1850 | 20,000 | 300,000 | Expansion of Poole Harbour |
| 1900 | 30,000 | 500,000 | Rise of the Codfish Merchant Class |
| 1950 | 15,000 | 250,000 | Decline due to overfishing |
| 2000 | 5,000 | 100,000 | Shift to sustainable fishing practices |
The codfish trade’s impact on Poole’s history is undeniable, showcasing the town’s resilience and adaptability in the face of economic change.
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Sum Up
The walking tour of Historic Poole offers a captivating exploration of the town’s rich heritage, delving into its Viking connections and codfish trade. Priced at £15 per person, the two-hour guided experience covers key highlights, including the Lord Baden Powell statue and medieval streetlamp, while sharing intriguing stories in a leisurely, wheelchair-accessible setting. The tour promises an engaging and informative journey through Poole’s diverse history.