RNLI College

This place is a lovely way to relax and unwind, while knowing you are helping the RNLI to fund its vital activities. We will never stay anywhere else when visiting Poole in the future. Our room was very well equipped and had a harbour view. Breakfast was superb. Plenty of choice and all well presented. Dinner was great. First class all round and well recommended.

Coming from a seafaring family, I have long supported the RNLI, and this a wonderful place to stay at the heart of RNLI operations. Rooms are not always available to the general public, as priority is to those on courses there, so it's a bonus to be able to get in when we are in the area. All the rooms are of a good size, the bed is comfy and all have a view over Holes Bay - another bonus. The food is superb and everyone is so welcoming and keen to talk to you about their roll there. Thoroughly recommended.

A great location with the most friendly and welcoming staff. Nothing was too much trouble. Had a lovely meal in Riggers Restaurant where the staff were exemplary in their service, as they were again at breakfast (also delicious) the following morning.

“Outstanding Service from Claire at Reception!” I had the absolute pleasure of being assisted by Claire at reception, and I cannot praise her enough. From the moment I arrived, she went above and beyond to ensure everything was seamless. Her warm welcome, professionalism, and genuine willingness to help made such a difference to my experience. Nothing was too much trouble for her—she handled everything with efficiency and a smile. Claire is truly an asset to the team, and I highly appreciate her exceptional service. Thank you, Claire!

What felt like a rather random choice of place to stay turned out to be a brilliant option. Such an interesting building and complex, loved all the little details in the room that made it feel like you were in a cruise ship cabin or posh yacht. Door handles = marine cleats! View over the harbour with boats bobbing about was beautiful, also loved the row of deckchairs in front of the lifeboats. Private parking was included (permit issued by reception). Now don’t get me wrong, it’s not crazy fancy, but it’s a decent step up from a Premier Inn. We just forgot to use the aircon, so it was a warm nights sleep, but that was our fault. Breakfast was self serve style in the ground floor restaurant and again, it wasn’t bad at all. A few things had run out but that’s because we got there late (they serve til 10.30am which I totally appreciate with checkout a reasonable 11am). But we had more than enough, and didn’t even need lunch. I really enjoyed our stay, wish I’d enquired about tours of the whole place.

We stayed three nights. The room was well designed. Bed very comfortable. Food in restaurant was also very good. Right on water front so nice views and some stunning sunsets. We also did a tour with Stuart. Excellent and interesting of past present and future of the RNLI. Had a go in their very impressive simulator. Don't miss it. And profits go to RNLI