Business Details
37 Years
experience
Your Premier Shopping Destination in Poole
Dolphin Shopping Centre in Poole stands as Dorset's largest indoor shopping destination, offering a dynamic mix of over 90 retailers ranging from high street favourites to independent specialists. Since its acquisition by Legal & General in 2013, the centre has evolved beyond traditional retail, integrating vibrant food and drink options, leisure facilities, and community-focused spaces. Originally opened in 1969 as the Arndale Centre, its rebranding in 1989 marked a new era of modernisation, welcoming 30,000 daily visitors. The centre actively supports local enterprise through initiatives like Kingland Crescent, a rent-free hub for independent traders, and Dolphin Shopping Centre Street Market, showcasing artisanal products.GATHER, a free community event space, hosts cultural exhibitions, workshops, and seasonal celebrations, while Foundry provides flexible co-working environments for startups and established businesses. With NHS health services, educational partnerships, and family attractions like Flip Out and The Project Climbing Centre, Dolphin Shopping Centre serves as a multifaceted hub for commerce, wellness, and community engagement. Its commitment to accessibility, sustainability, and local economic growth underscores its role as a cornerstone of Poole's urban landscape.
Services
Retail Stores
Food Court
Event Hosting
Co-working Spaces
Street Market
Community Services
Leisure Facilities
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- We host Dorset's largest mix of high street brands and independent retailers
- Our GATHER space offers free community event hosting opportunities
- Kingland Crescent supports local businesses with rent-free units for two years
- Foundry provides modern co-working spaces with 24/7 access options
- We welcome 30,000 daily visitors through our accessible, centrally located venue
Services
Retail Stores
Over 90 retail units featuring major high street brands alongside independent specialists in fashion, homeware, and specialist goods. Dolphin Shopping Centre offers a curated mix of established retailers and emerging local businesses across multiple levels. With flexible leasing options and prime locations, it provides commercial opportunities for businesses of all sizes while serving Poole's 30,000 daily visitors.
Street Food
First-floor dining destination with global cuisine options including Noodlebar's pan-Asian dishes, Wraps 'N Roll's customisable wraps, and Chuck & Blade's gourmet burgers. The space combines established restaurants with emerging culinary concepts, offering casual dining experiences that rotate to maintain variety. This vibrant food hub caters to diverse tastes with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available.
Co-working Spaces
Flexible workspaces designed for freelancers, startups, and established businesses with day passes, dedicated desks, and private offices. Foundry provides fully serviced environments featuring superfast WiFi, meeting rooms, and networking opportunities. The facility supports business growth through 24/7 access options and event spaces that foster professional collaboration in Poole's commercial heart.
Community Events
Free event space hosting cultural exhibitions, charity fundraisers, and educational workshops for local organisations. GATHER accommodates pop-ups, art displays, and seasonal celebrations like Diwali and Black History Month. The 1,800sq ft venue includes kitchen facilities and WiFi, supporting both scheduled programming and community-initiated events that enrich Poole's social fabric.
Local Market Stalls
Rotating indoor market with eight stalls showcasing handmade goods, vintage items, and locally produced food. Dolphin Shopping Centre Street Market provides affordable trading opportunities for small businesses at 30+VAT per day, featuring changing vendors to maintain product variety. This platform supports Dorset-based creatives and entrepreneurs while offering visitors unique shopping experiences alongside mainstream retail offerings.
Questions
What are The Dolphin's standard opening hours?
The Dolphin Shopping Centre is open Monday to Saturday 8:00am–9:00pm and Sunday 9:30am–9:00pm, though individual retailers may vary.
Can local organisations host events at The Dolphin?
Yes, our GATHER space offers free venue hire for community events including workshops, exhibitions, and charity fundraisers during daytime hours.
How can small businesses rent market stalls?
Local makers can rent stalls from £30+VAT per day, with equipment hire available. Applications are accepted through our website for this rotating marketplace.
Are there co-working facilities available?
Foundry provides flexible co-working spaces with day passes, dedicated desks, and private offices featuring business amenities and networking opportunities.
What dining options are available?
The Dolphin Street Food offers global cuisine across five restaurants, while additional cafes and eateries operate throughout the shopping centre.
Does The Dolphin support local businesses?
Yes, through initiatives like Kingland Crescent's rent-free units and The Dolphin Street Market, we actively promote Dorset-based independent traders.
