Alexandra Park is a wonderful haven in the middle of Parkstone in Poole with pathways to explore, mature trees and wild flowers, an enclosed play park and the recently re-opened café.

We popped into the café to check out the menu and my daughter talked me into ordering her a toasted sandwich and a kids hot chocolate which were both very nice.  The café is lovely and spacious with indoor and outdoor seating.  There is also a front lawn and gardens which are still in working progress but once matured it will look lovely I’m sure.  We especially enjoyed looking in the raised beds which had veggies, herbs and huge poppies growing!

The café menu is varied with sandwiches and toasties, jacket potatoes and vegan options.  You can also buy ice creams, drinks, cakes and treats.  The staff were really lovely and we were made to feel most welcome.

After visiting the café we went for a stroll around the park spotting plenty of squirrels and blackberry bushes growing before heading to the play area.  The park is enclosed with the exception of a zip line, bucket swing and ball court which is all located nearby.  Within the park you’ll find climbing frames with slides, (one low level for younger children and one for older children), swings, a ground level roundabout, spring rockers, spinner and wooden balance equipment up on the grassy area.  A couple of benches can be found within the play area and there’s more outside the enclosed area too.

There are areas within the park which are reverting back to a more natural meadow.  Since the 1930’s about 97% of our native meadows have been lost.  The grass will be allowed to grow long so they can see which plant species are present and this should provide an ideal habitat for lots of wildlife.

Good to know:

• Free parking can be found on the side streets which include Alexandra Road and Palmeston Road.  Please check for any parking restrictions though.

• There are toilets located within the café.

• There are numerous free nature based activities running through the year in term time and the holidays.  For more information, please visit The Parks Foundation.

• Watch out for café events which include summer BBQ’s.  To keep up to date with news, please see Alexandra Park Café on Facebook.

Need more ideas for things to do in Poole?  You’ll find lots on our list of 50 Things to do in Poole with Kids!