Seaside in the summer? What summer? Mervyn Hancock says that Poole in Dorset is a perfect autumn break

WITH a unique mix of fascinating history, stunning beaches, a bust- ling quay, top attractions and shopping, a visit to Poole this autumn is a must.

The resort's stunning natural harbour, with five unique islands and striking peninsula is the largest in Europe.

The quay provides a great base to just sit back in one of the many cafe bars, traditional pubs and restaurants to watch the visiting yachts in the marina, and the luxurious, globally renowned Sunseeker Motor Yachts being built just across the water.

Or, set sail for the National Trust's Brownsea Island with its peaceful wooded walks and wide variety of wildlife. It is open daily from 10am until November 2.

When on the quay, make sure a visit to the world famous Poole Pottery factory outlet store is on your itinerary and enjoy the quayside retail area with outlet shopping, and restaurants. For the ultimate pampering experience, visit Robin James Aveda Salon and Spa.

Poole Old Town is an exciting mix of smugglers' passageways and elegant houses built by rich merchants in the 17th and 18th centuries, backing on to the quay with its mix of fishing boats, crab liners and luxury powerboats.

Following a major redevelopment project, the Museum on the High Street is now open. Its facilities include a terrace and visitor lounge with magnificent views over the harbour.

The original fabric of the 18th- century harbour warehouse, which houses the main displays, has been carefully revealed to provide the perfect setting for the story of the town and its people to be told.

The long, pedestrianised High Street is also worthy of a visit. You can board the Route One bus service every 15 minutes, and at just £1 for the day, you can jump on and off the circular shopping route at your leisure, ending up on the quayside.

Sandbanks beach is the winner of more European blue flags than any other British resort – and its neigh- bouring Shore Road and Branksome Chine beaches provide a fantastic location for safe swimming, sunbathing and watersports.

Poole Harbour provides a stunning location for all types of watersports. When the wind increases, the harbour and beaches attract more experienced wind surfers and sailors, which creates a fantastic show of multi-coloured sails darting across the water. Boats and jet- skis can be launched at Baiter Park public slipway.

Visit the famous Compton Acres Gardens, which are reputed to be the finest gardens in Europe. They are open 363 days of the year with free parking. If you are looking for high street shopping, head to the Dolphin Shopping Centre.

Dorset's largest shopping centre is home to more than 100 stores and the largest arts centre outside London. The Lighthouse offers something for everyone, from theatre, music, dance, films and exhibitions.

Other must-see attractions include greyhound racing at Poole Stadium and Tower Park, which includes a 10-screen Empire cinema, Bowlplex, Gala Bingo, Splashdown water park, children's indoor activity centre and many popular restaurants.

Poole Park, just a short walk from the town centre, has plenty to keep the family amused, with Gus Gorilla's Indoor Jungle Playground, Poole Park Railway, Central Park Ice Skating and sailing with Rockley Watersports on Poole Park Lake.

Poole's general street market takes place every Thursday on the High Street from 9am-5pm. The farmers' market also takes place every Thursday, at Falklands Square from 9am-2pm.

If you are looking to explore attractions further afield, the town is within easy reach of England's first natural World Heritage Site, the Jurassic Coast, as well as the New Forest National Park and top attractions including Monkey World, Beaulieu, Oceanarium, Paultons Park (which ahs limited winter opening times), the Tank Museum and many more.

The excitement doesn't stop when the sun goes down, either. In and around the quay is a wonderful variety of top-quality restaurants and a fine selection of pubs and bars. Don't miss out on local fish specialties – including Poole's world-renowned oysters.

On Wednesday, November 5, Poole quay will host a grand fireworks display. The fun begins at 4.30pm with live music, street entertainment and family fun activities with the finale at 7.45pm.

For more information please contact Poole Welcome Centre on 01202 253253, or email tourism@pooletourism.com