What’s On in Poole: Shakeaway Opens Plus GATHER Fairs

Big week in Poole town centre. A brand new name has opened its doors, our community space is buzzing and there is plenty more on the way. So if you are wondering what’s on in Poole right now, here is your round up of this week’s news and a look ahead to what is coming next to The Dolphin.

This week’s headline: Shakeaway arrives in Falkland Square

The big news first. Shakeaway has opened in Falkland Square, bringing its famous mix and match milkshakes to the heart of The Dolphin. Known for a menu that runs into hundreds of flavour combinations, it is a proper treat stop for kids, students and anyone with a sweet tooth.

Summer and milkshakes go together, so the timing could not be better. Whether you fancy a simple vanilla or something loaded with chocolate bars and sweets, you can now pick up a shake while you browse. Pop in next time you are passing and see what you can dream up.

New openings like this one matter to us. Every fresh face adds to the mix that makes Poole town centre worth the trip, alongside our independents on KINGLAND and the traders in STREET FOOD.

Still on this week: Poole Men’s Shed at GATHER

There is still time to catch Poole Men’s Shed, which runs at GATHER until Sunday 2 August. The group brings people together to share skills, take on projects and enjoy good company, and it is a lovely example of what our community space is for. Everyone is welcome, so drop by before the week is out.

GATHER is our free venue for local groups, charities and organisations to host events for the community. Something different lands there most weeks, which brings us neatly to the days ahead.

Looking ahead: craft fairs and makers markets at GATHER

Next week GATHER fills up with makers, artists and good causes. If you love handmade finds and supporting local talent, this is one to note in the diary.

First up, Craftaholics Makers Market returns on the first Wednesday of the month, running 10am to 3pm. Expect jewellery, cards, bags, cushions, pictures, crochet and patchwork, all designed and hand crafted by talented Dorset makers. It is a browse full of one off pieces you simply will not find on the high street.

Then the SAMEE Charity brings its Showcase and Craft Fair to GATHER on Thursday 6 August, from 10am to 4pm. This one is special. SAMEE, which stands for Support and Mentoring Enabling Entrepreneurship, runs the UK’s first Supported Self Employment Internship programme for young adults who are neurodivergent or who face barriers to traditional work. The showcase puts their interns front and centre, with digital artwork, photography, creative writing, branded merchandise and even cupcakes to browse and buy.

As chief executive Sam Everard MBE puts it, disability does not define potential, opportunity does. So come along, meet the interns, hear their business stories and pick up something made with real heart.

There is more still to come. Early August also brings an Antique Fair in aid of Dorset Children’s Foundation, plus a pop up shop from Amelia’s Rainbow, both raising awareness and funds for causes close to home. Together they turn GATHER into a hub of creativity and community spirit right through the month.

Make a day of it

While you are in for a fair, there is every reason to linger. You can grab a Shakeaway, shop the independents on KINGLAND and refuel in STREET FOOD, all under one roof. Meanwhile our Street Market runs Thursday to Saturday, so the centre stays full of local makers from one week to the next.

Plan your visit

However you like to spend a day in town, there is a reason to visit right now. For the latest dates and times across all of it, check our What’s On page before you come, and take a look at the full line up of shops in our Stores directory. We will see you at The Dolphin.