Free Things to Do in Poole This May: Film Friday at The Dolphin

If you are searching for free things to do in Poole this May, The Dolphin has something special lined up. Film Friday lands on Friday 29 May with three free experiences rolled into one community day out. Whether you are looking for half term activities for the kids, a feel good day with friends or simply somewhere to spend a Friday in Poole town centre, this is one of the best free things to do in Poole this month.

Film Friday is built around the simple idea that great films, great stories and great community moments belong together. From a family classic in the morning to short films celebrating real people from Poole, through to a singalong showstopper to close the day, there is something here for every age.

What is Film Friday at The Dolphin?

Film Friday at The Dolphin is a free pop up cinema day in the mall, right in the heart of the centre. It is part of our wider programme of free family activities in Poole and joins a year round calendar of workshops, markets and live events designed for locals.

Three screenings. One day. No tickets needed. Just turn up, grab a treat from Street Food upstairs and settle in. It is one of the easiest ways to enjoy a full day out in Poole without spending a thing.

What’s Playing: Three Films, One Free Day Out in Poole

10:30am — UP

The day opens with the Disney Pixar favourite Up. Funny, heartfelt and packed with adventure, it is the perfect family film to kick off Film Friday. Younger kids love the talking dogs and the floating house. Older audiences quietly cry at the opening montage. Universal stuff.

If you are after family activities in Poole that work for mixed age groups, this is a strong shout. Bring younger ones in pushchairs, older kids straight from school holidays and grandparents who have not seen it on a big screen. There is plenty of space in the mall and the seating is relaxed.

Midday — The People of Poole Series

Next up, something genuinely local. The People of Poole series is a set of three short films, each around five minutes long, telling real stories from real people in our town. These are our neighbours, our retailers, our community members. The films were produced as part of our ongoing celebration of what makes Poole such a brilliant place to live and work.

It is rare to find things to do in Poole that put the spotlight on Poole itself. The People of Poole series does exactly that. Expect warmth, honesty and the kind of stories that remind you why community matters.

Afternoon — The Greatest Showman

To close Film Friday we are bringing The Greatest Showman to the big screen. Hugh Jackman, the songs everyone knows, a story about finding your people. If you have somehow never seen it, this is the one to fix that. If you have seen it twenty times, you already know you are coming.

Expect a few singalongs. We are not going to stop you.

Why Film Friday Is One of the Best Free Things to Do in Poole

Free family events in Poole are not always easy to find. A full day of programmed activity that does not cost a penny is even rarer. Film Friday gives families, older audiences, students and anyone with a free day a reason to come into town and enjoy themselves without the cost barrier that puts so many days out out of reach.

It also reflects what The Dolphin is here to do. We are not just a shopping centre. We are a community hub for Poole, and that means programming days like this one alongside the retail offer, the Street Food hall, the independent shops on KINGLAND and the events at GATHER throughout the year.

Things to Do in Poole Around Film Friday

Make a full day of it. Film Friday gives you a built in reason to be in Poole town centre, so here are a few other things to do in Poole while you are here:

• Lunch at Street Food. Our first floor food hall has independent traders serving everything from wood fired pizza to dumplings, burgers and bubble tea. Pick something different from your usual.
• Shop the independents on KINGLAND. Poole’s independent retail corridor is home to gift shops, lifestyle brands, beauty studios and more. A perfect browse between screenings.
• Visit The Dolphin Street Market. Thursday to Saturday, our weekly market puts local makers and small businesses in the heart of the centre. Always something new to find.
• Walk down to Poole Quay. We are five minutes from the harbour. If the weather holds, finish the day with a stroll on the water.

How to Get to Film Friday at The Dolphin

The Dolphin sits in the centre of Poole, a few minutes from the bus and train stations and with multi storey car parking on site. If you are travelling from Bournemouth, Wimborne or further across BCP, Poole town centre is well connected by public transport.

Film Friday takes place in the mall on the ground floor. Follow signs once inside the centre. Step free access throughout.

Planning Your Visit: Film Friday FAQs

Do I need a ticket?

No. Film Friday is free to attend with no booking required. Seats are first come, first served, so arrive a few minutes early for the screening you want to catch.

Is it suitable for children?

Yes. Up and The Greatest Showman are family friendly. The People of Poole series is suitable for all ages. Film Friday is one of the best free family activities in Poole this May.

Can I bring food and drink?

Yes. We encourage you to grab something from Street Food upstairs and bring it down. Popcorn vibes optional but encouraged.

What time does it finish?

All three screenings run across the day from 10:30am. Final timings for the midday and afternoon films will be confirmed on our social channels in the week leading up to the event.

More Things to Do in Poole at The Dolphin

Film Friday is one of many free things to do in Poole on offer at The Dolphin this year. From community markets to wellbeing pop ups, charity partner events and seasonal celebrations, the centre hosts a rolling programme of things to do in Poole all year round.

To stay up to date with what’s on in Poole at The Dolphin, follow @thedolphinpoole on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. You can also browse the full events calendar on our What’s On page.