A short distance along the coast from Bournemouth, Poole holds one of the region's major cultural venues. Lighthouse is the largest arts centre anywhere on the south coast, with a programme covering everything from large touring musicals to symphony concerts, stand-up comedy, dance and current cinema releases. For an evening out that isn't centred on the beach, it's well worth considering.
The essentials
- Lighthouse is a multi-arts venue based in central Poole, a few minutes from Poole Quay.
- Its programme covers theatre, live music, comedy, dance, family shows and film.
- It serves as the concert base for the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra.
- New shows go up regularly, so it pays to check the listings again during the year.
Several venues in one building
The breadth of what's on offer is what makes Lighthouse stand out. Under one roof it combines a large concert hall, a theatre, a studio space and a cinema, so the schedule is constantly changing. A West End touring show might be on one week, followed by a classical concert, a comedian partway through a tour, or a children's production during half term the next. This variety makes it worth recommending regardless of taste, and a solid option indoors whenever the weather turns.
Classical and live music
Serving as home to the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra's concerts, Lighthouse runs a full season of orchestral shows, covering everything from seasonal crowd-pleasers to more demanding full-length programmes. Beyond the classical schedule, touring bands, tribute acts and standalone gigs also appear, so the listings are worth a look even if orchestral music isn't your usual pick.
Drama, comedy and dance
Throughout the year, the theatre and studio stages host plays, musicals, dance companies and comedy acts. Since a lot of this work is on tour, shows you've come across elsewhere have a habit of appearing on the south coast, sparing you the trip to a larger city.
Getting there and making a night of it
Travelling from Bournemouth to Poole is simple. Direct trains take about 12 minutes, buses run often between the two centres, and drivers will find car parks near the venue. Turn it into a full evening by arriving early and heading down to Poole Quay for a drink or something to eat before making your way in for the performance.
Staying up to date with the programme
New shows are added to the Lighthouse calendar throughout the year, so what you see today is never the full picture. Our what's on calendar highlights events across Bournemouth and Poole, though you should always confirm dates, prices and start times directly with the venue's box office before booking, since touring schedules are subject to change.