About this venue
Poole Arts Centre, also known today as Lighthouse, Poole’s Centre for the Arts, is one of the most recognizable cultural venues in Poole. The venue is designed as a multi-purpose arts centre for concerts, theatre performances, comedy, cinema, exhibitions and other events, bringing different types of programming together in one location. Its architecture emphasizes the practicality of a large cultural complex, with clearly arranged halls and event spaces that can support both intimate performances and larger productions.
Inside, the experience is shaped by good sightlines, reliable acoustics and a practical layout. Visitors can expect a comfortable setting for longer events, foyer areas for gathering before the performance and food and drink options that complement an evening out. With a concert hall, theatre, cinema and gallery-style spaces, Poole Arts Centre works as an all-day cultural address rather than simply a place to arrive just before showtime.
The venue is located at 21 Kingland Road, Poole, Dorset BH15 1UG, United Kingdom. The entrance sits in a central area, opposite the Dolphin Shopping Centre and close to Poole bus station, while Poole railway station is a short walk away. Public car parks are available nearby for visitors arriving by car, and broader information about getting around the city follows naturally in the city description below.
About the city
Poole, a coastal town in Dorset, is known for its maritime character, lively waterfront and relaxed atmosphere, making it an appealing destination for concerts, sporting events and evening entertainment. Thanks to its combination of a natural harbour, cultural venues, stadiums and hospitality options, the town offers visitors a practical base for events of different formats. Whether the reason for visiting is an indoor performance, a sports match or a larger event in the Bournemouth area and across the wider Dorset coast, Poole provides an easy rhythm of stay, a good choice of accommodation and plenty to enjoy before and after the programme.
Transport connections are one of the town’s main advantages. Poole railway station is on a route served by South Western Railway, with connections to Bournemouth, Southampton and London, while local Morebus services link the centre, waterfront districts and the wider urban area. For arrivals by air, the most practical option is Bournemouth Airport, and Poole Ferry Terminal also plays an important role, especially for passengers arriving by sea. Thanks to the central location of the station, bus connections and available taxi services, reaching arenas, sports grounds and concert venues in Poole and neighbouring Bournemouth is generally straightforward and free of unnecessary complications.
Before or after an event, Poole offers plenty of reasons to extend a stay. A walk along Poole Quay reveals restaurants, marinas and views of one of Europe’s best-known natural harbours, while the Old Town offers narrow streets, historic buildings and traces of the town’s maritime past. For a calmer experience, it is worth making time for Sandbanks Beach, trips towards Brownsea Island or a gentle coastal walk before the evening programme. It is precisely this combination of events, good connectivity and coastal atmosphere that makes Poole a practical and pleasant choice for visitors who want to combine event tickets with a short city break.
