As Dorset’s largest indoor shopping centre, The Dolphin Poole brings together over 90 retailers under one roof. Visitors can explore a variety of leading high street brands alongside independent specialist stores. Since Legal & General acquired the centre in 2013, it has expanded significantly to offer food and drink, leisure attractions, free events and service hubs for the local community.
Originally known as the Arndale Centre, this shopping destination first opened its doors to the public in 1969. Following further development and refurbishments, the centre relaunched as the Dolphin Shopping Centre in 1989. Today, it welcomes upwards of 30,000 visitors per day and has become affectionately known as The Dolphin.
Beyond our 90+ retailers and restaurants, we provide great experiences and resources for the local community. For instance, Access Wellbeing support your mental health. Meanwhile, Skills & Learning helps you take the next step in your education.
Families can also head to Flip Out, High Score Arcade or the Project Climbing Centre for a great day out with the kids. Additionally, Poole Library and BCP Council’s Family Information Service offer valuable local resources. If you need a workspace, Foundry provides modern co-working spaces.
GATHER event space offers a free venue for individuals, organisations and charities to host their own events. As a result, the space regularly welcomes charity fundraisers, pop-ups, art exhibitions, children’s entertainment, education and employment fairs and interactive workshops.
Our eight street market stalls on the ground floor provide local independent businesses with an affordable platform to try retail. Here, you can browse our handpicked selection of local artisans, creatives and artists to find the perfect gift for a loved one or a treat for yourself.
Kingland Crescent showcases even more local independents on our artisanal street. Since its transformation in 2021, Kingland has become home to the best homegrown brands around.
Whether you love luscious houseplant greenery, locally brewed coffee or country fashion, this vibrant corner is well worth a visit.
Take a break from shopping and treat yourself to breakfast, lunch or dinner at The Dolphin Street Food. Whether you fancy burritos, noodles, curried goat, burgers or a handmade wrap, our vendors have you covered.
Located on the first floor, this street food destination features both brand new and established restaurants celebrating flavours from around the world.
