Just along the coast from Bournemouth, Poole is home to one of the region’s cultural heavyweights. Lighthouse is the largest arts centre on the south coast, and its programme runs the full gamut from big touring musicals to symphony concerts, stand-up, dance and the latest cinema releases. If you are looking for a night out beyond the beach, it deserves a place on your list.
What to know first
- Lighthouse is a multi-arts venue in the centre of Poole, minutes from Poole Quay.
- The programme spans theatre, live music, comedy, dance, family shows and film.
- It is the concert home of the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra.
- Fresh shows are announced regularly, so it is worth checking back through the year.
More than one venue under one roof
What sets Lighthouse apart is its range. It houses a large concert hall, a theatre, a studio space and a cinema, which means the programme rarely stands still. One week might bring a West End touring production, the next a classical concert, a comedian mid-tour or a children’s show during half term. That variety makes it an easy recommendation whatever your taste, and a reliable fallback when the weather turns and you want something to do indoors.
Live music and classical
As the concert home of the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, Lighthouse hosts a full season of orchestral performances, from seasonal favourites to ambitious full programmes. Alongside the classical calendar you will find touring bands, tribute acts and one-off gigs, so it is worth scanning the listings even if orchestral music is not usually your thing.
Theatre, comedy and dance
The theatre and studio stages carry plays, musicals, dance companies and comedy throughout the year. Because much of this is touring work, it is the kind of programme where a show you have heard about elsewhere quietly turns up on the south coast, saving you a trip to a bigger city.
Planning your visit
Getting to Poole from Bournemouth could not be much easier. Direct trains take around 12 minutes, buses run frequently between the two centres, and if you drive there are car parks close to the venue. Make an evening of it by arriving early and wandering down to Poole Quay for a drink or a bite before the show, then heading in for the main event.
How to keep up with new announcements
Lighthouse adds shows to its calendar all year round, so the programme you see today is only part of the picture. Keep an eye on our what’s on calendar for highlights across Bournemouth and Poole, and always confirm dates, prices and start times with the venue’s own box office before you book, as touring schedules can change.