Originals

Art galleries in Poole aren't thin on the ground, but Originals stands out because it's run by actual artists rather than committee members who studied art history once. You're looking at contemporary work from regional creatives - paintings, sculptures, prints, the lot - displayed in a space that feels genuinely lived-in rather than aggressively curated.

The appeal here is straightforward. If you're the sort who enjoys spotting emerging talent before the London crowd catches on, or you simply want to pick up something original rather than another mass-produced print, it's worth an afternoon. Kids will get bored quickly unless they're the type to sit quietly in galleries, which let's be honest, most aren't. But for couples or solo art enthusiasts, it's a solid hour out of the rain.

Since the exact opening hours aren't listed online, ring ahead before you go - nothing worse than arriving somewhere only to find it shut. Admission details are similarly vague, so best to check their website or give them a call.

Locally, you're spoilt for camping options. Haven Rockley Park is just under two miles away if you're based there, and South Lytchett Manor at three miles offers a more low-key alternative. The gallery works well as a rainy-day stop during a broader Poole exploration - pair it with a wander along the waterfront or a visit to Poole Quay, both within easy reach.