Hello Poole!

It’s time for another packed edition of PooleNow, keeping you in the loop on everything happening in our town.

This week, we’ve got an inspiring feature on Chestnut Nursery, a local charity using horticulture to support mental health. There’s also big news for food lovers—a new traditional pie and mash shop is opening on Poole High Street! Plus, if you’re a fan of the paranormal, a chilling ghost hunt is coming to Merley House.

As always, we’ve rounded up the best gigs, events, quizzes, and activities happening across Poole this week—so you can plan the perfect few days ahead.

Got an event or local story to share? We’d love to hear from you! Drop us a message at [email protected] and let’s keep Poole in the know.

This week…

• Inside Chestnut Nursery: How plants change lives

• Pie & Mash comes to Poole High Street!

• A chilling ghost experience at Merley House

• The best places to celebrate International Women’s Day

• Live music, food events, and quizzes—plan your week

🌊 Help Keep Avon Beach Clean

Join Surfers Against Sewage for a community beach clean at Avon Beach and do your part in protecting our coastline. Volunteers will also receive 50% off communal beach saunas and a free Jimmy’s Iced Coffee as a thank-you.

The beach clean takes place on Saturday 15th March at 10am. Meet at Avon Beach (What3Words: damage.span.miles).

Sign up here: Beach Clean Sign-Up

🥂 Quiz and Fizz for a Great Cause

Gather your team for Quiz and Fizz at La Mias Restaurant, all in support of Lewis-Manning Hospice Care. Enjoy an evening of trivia, laughter, and a glass of fizz while raising money for a fantastic cause.

It takes place on Wednesday 13th March from 7-10pm. Tickets are just £10, which includes a welcome drink and quiz entry.

To book your spot, email [email protected].

🏅 Grants for Young Sporting Talent

The Lord-Lieutenant’s Fund for Young and Talented is now open for applications, offering grants of up to £1,000 to help young athletes overcome financial barriers and reach their full potential.

Applicants must be aged 14-21, live in Dorset, and have their sporting talent recognised by a national governing body. Funding can go towards coaching, travel, competition fees, and kit.

Applications close on 7th April 2025. Find out more and apply here: Dorset Community Foundation

🥧 Traditional Pie & Mash Comes to Poole

A brand-new pie and mash shop is opening on Poole High Street. Champs will serve up authentic London-style pie, mash, and liquor, bringing a slice of East End tradition to the South Coast.

The grand opening is on Saturday 8th March from 11am to 7pm. The shop will then be open Tuesday to Saturday from 11am to 7pm for both eat-in and takeaway.

Find out more: Champs Pie and Mash

💻 Creatives & Coders Meetup at Cottonwood

{dev.talk} is a community for software engineers, developers, and creatives who want to connect, share knowledge, and grow their skills. This relaxed and friendly event is open to all backgrounds and technical levels.

The next event takes place at Cottonwood Boutique Hotel and will feature three speakers:

• George Buckingham – PHP Today: Evolving, Growing, and Thriving

• Miguel Salvador – No CS Degree != No Job

• Kerry Oliver – My First Year in YouTube

Join in on Thursday 7th March. Full details and tickets: {dev.talk}

Chestnut Nursery: Growing Plants, Nurturing People

Tucked away next to Poole Park, Chestnut Nursery is more than just a garden centre—it’s a place of transformation, purpose, and community. Part of the charity Plants and Minds, the nursery provides therapeutic horticulture and meaningful work experience for people struggling with mental health challenges. We spoke to Andy Verreck, the Nursery Manager, to learn more about the work they do and why this project is so vital.

A Passion for Plants and People

Andy’s journey in horticulture spans over 25 years. Originally from Sussex, he pursued a degree in Plant Biology in Cornwall before gaining experience in New Zealand, where he developed a love for Southern Hemisphere exotics. In 2013, he moved back to the UK and joined Chestnut Nursery as a Horticultural Supervisor, bringing with him a deep knowledge of plants and a passion for their therapeutic benefits. By 2019, he had taken on the role of Nursery Manager, combining his expertise in horticulture with training in mental health support.

A Lifeline for the Community

The original Cherry Tree Nursery in Bournemouth was founded as a response to the government’s ‘Care in the Community’ initiative in the 1980s, which saw psychiatric hospitals closing and patients returning to independent living. Many struggled with the transition, facing isolation and a lack of structure in their daily lives. Recognising this, Reverend Canon Rosalyn Aish and philanthropist Cyril Speller set up Cherry Tree Nursery as a safe space where people could regain routine, social interaction, and confidence through horticultural work. In 2001 they were able to expand by taking over the old council nursery site in Poole Park. It was named Chestnut Nursery after the large Horse Chestnut trees that grow on the site. 

Today, the nursery provides a supportive environment where ‘Team Members’—people living with mental health challenges—can engage in meaningful work, develop friendships, and build their self-esteem. “Attending is my ‘reset’ button,” shares one Team Member. “I feel like a ‘person’”.

Facing Challenges, Growing Stronger

Despite the incredible work they do, Chestnut Nursery faces significant challenges. Unlike many other mental health support initiatives, they are almost entirely self-funded, relying on plant sales to cover their costs. “Many people still assume we’re council-run or closed to the public,” Andy explains. “Getting the word out that we’re here, open, and need support is half the battle.”

The Nurseries produce more than 100,000 high-quality garden plants every year, from classic garden favourites to rare and unusual varieties. Andy’s personal favourite? The tree fern Dicksonia antarctica, a prehistoric beauty that has survived for millions of years. “It’s quite literally a living dinosaur—how cool is that?”

How You Can Support Chestnut Nursery

There are many ways to support the nursery, from shopping at their garden centre to volunteering. People living with mental health conditions can become Team Members through referrals, while those looking to volunteer in a more traditional sense can join as Friends, assisting with retail and customer support. “But honestly,” Andy says, “the best way the public can help us is simply by visiting, buying plants and telling their friends about us.”

Looking to the Future

Andy’s main goal for the nursery is to raise awareness and expand their customer base to ensure long-term sustainability. “The more people know about us, the more we can continue supporting those who need us.”

With its combination of stunning plants, a peaceful setting, and a mission that truly changes lives, Chestnut Nursery is one of Poole’s most remarkable hidden gems. Whether you’re a keen gardener, looking for a way to give back, or just want to explore somewhere new, a visit to Chestnut Nursery is highly recommended.

Discover Chestnut Nursery in person, next to Poole Park at 75 Kingland Road, Poole, BH15 1TN, and online via website, Instagram and Facebook.

🦅 The Lookout Opens on Brownsea Island

A brand-new wildlife observatory has opened on Brownsea Island, offering visitors spectacular views of the Lagoon and the many birds that nest and feed there.

Designed to blend into the landscape, The Lookout replaces an old hide and provides a state-of-the-art space for nature lovers to explore. The project was delivered as part of the Wild Brownsea initiative, with funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, National Trust, and Dorset Wildlife Trust.

Plan your visit: Dorset Wildlife Trust

🥞 Celebrate Pancake Day!

Pancake Day, also known as Shrove Tuesday, is a tradition that dates back centuries. Originally, it was a way for people to use up rich ingredients like eggs and butter before the start of Lent. Today, it’s all about flipping and enjoying delicious pancakes!

Easy Pancake Recipe (Serves 4):

• 200g plain flour

• 2 eggs

• 300ml milk

• 1 tbsp melted butter

• Pinch of salt

1. Whisk the eggs, flour, milk, and salt into a smooth batter.

2. Heat a little butter in a pan and pour in a ladle of batter.

3. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown.

4. Serve with your favourite toppings!

Alternatively, let someone else do the flipping for you at Isabel’s Brasserie, where they’re serving up crêpes three ways all day on Tuesday 4th March. Choose from:

• Classic Crêpe with lemon and sugar

• Crêpe aux Noisettes with a chocolate and hazelnut filling

• Crêpe Suzette with a caramelised sauce

Find out more: Isabel’s Brasserie

📚 Bournemouth Writing Festival Returns in 2025!

Calling all writers, storytellers, and creatives—the Bournemouth Writing Festival is back from Friday 25th April to Sunday 27th April 2025. Now in its third year, the festival continues to grow, bringing together authors, poets, screenwriters, journalists, and industry professionals for an inspiring weekend.

Whether you're just starting out or already deep into your writing journey, the festival offers talks, workshops, masterclasses, and networking opportunities to help refine your craft. Literary agents will be offering 1:1 feedback sessions, and unique activities such as Writing on the Beach and poetry in the Lower Gardens will spark creativity in fresh ways.

For children, Patch at Bobby’s will host a dedicated Children’s Hub with free drop-in sessions and ticketed workshops, plus there’s an exciting lifesaving-themed writing competition in partnership with the RNLI. The festival is also committed to inclusivity, with free workshops for marginalised groups, including adults with additional needs, children in care, and those in financial difficulty.

With support from Arts Council England, Town Centre BID, and Solid Imagery Photography, the Bournemouth Writing Festival is set to be bigger and better than ever. More details, including information about the speakers and tickets are available on the website.

📖 Find out more: www.bournemouthwritingfestival.co.uk, Facebook, Bluesky, Instagram and LinkedIn

💃 Salsa Night at Oriel Restaurant

Get ready for an evening of delicious food and dancing at Oriel Restaurant’s Latino Evening. Enjoy a three-course dinner while Salsa Explosion brings the party with a DJ, social dance, and salsa class.

This takes place on Friday 21st March. A £10 deposit per person is required to secure your booking.

To book a table, call 01202 679833 or visit Oriel Restaurant.

👻 The Darkening: A Paranormal Experience at Merley House

Step into your very own horror movie at The Darkening, a fully immersive ghost hunt and paranormal experience developed by expert illusionists. Using magic, suggestion, and psychological techniques, this event guarantees a genuinely terrifying experience—not for the faint-hearted!

The experience takes place on Saturday 12th April at Merley House, Dorset, running from 3pm to 10pm. Tickets cost £69, including a ghost tour, seance, paranormal workshops, and an extensive buffet meal.

Book your place: The Darkening Tickets

🎶 Broadstone Music Series Returns

The Broadstone Music Series kicks off its 2025 season with a stunning classical performance featuring young professional musicians and special guest Savva Zverev (Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, 1st violin).

The concert takes place on Sunday 16th March at 4:30pm at St John’s Church, Broadstone. The programme includes works by Handel, Mozart, and Haydn.

Tickets cost £15 for adults and just £3 for under-18s, and include complimentary tea and cake at the interval.

Book here: Broadstone Music Series

What’s on this week in (and around) Poole

Tuesday

Bakers Arms, Lytchett Minster – Quiz Night, 8pm
Test your trivia skills at the Bakers Arms Quiz Night – a classic pub quiz in a friendly setting.
Join the fun

The Britannia – Pancake Day, 8pm
Indulge in a fiery Crepe Suzette to Share, flambéed tableside with Cointreau, and sip on an exclusive Citrus Flip Cocktail
Flip the pan

Wednesday

Bermuda Triangle Pub – Live Music: Almost Nearly Famous, 8:30pm-10:30pm
Enjoy a midweek music session with Almost Nearly Famous bringing country rock and blues to Ashley Cross.
See event details

Gather, Dolphin Centre – Craftholics Makers Market, 10am-4pm
Browse handmade jewellery, cards, handbags, and more from local artisans.
Find out more

Lighthouse, Poole – Kerry Godliman: Bandwidth, 7:30pm
Stand-up comedy from one of the UK’s sharpest observational comedians.
Book your seats

Thursday

Jenkins & Sons, Penn Hill – Live Music: Martin Rice, 7pm-9pm
Kick back with live acoustic music from Martin Rice, plus enjoy 2-for-1 cocktails from 4pm.
See event details

Bricklayers, Ashley Cross – Live Music: Andy Cole, 8pm
A great night of live music from talented local performer Andy Cole.
See event details

Knightlife Brewing Taphouse – Quiz Night, 8pm
Enjoy a craft beer and test your trivia knowledge at this lively quiz night.
Join the fun

The George, Poole – Quiz Night, 8pm
An evening of trivia, Play Your Cards Right, and bingo at The George.

Friday

Over The Moon – World Book Day Pop-Up Soft Play & Activities, 10am
Join in a day of fun activities inspired by children's favourite books. Dressing up encouraged but not required!
Book your spot

Lighthouse, Poole – The Astonishing Adventures of Kitty & Peg, 8:00pm
Friendly mind-blowing comedy double act
Book your seats

Bermuda Triangle Pub – Live Music: The Seventynine, 9pm-11pm
A night of rock and indie classics from The Seventynine.
See event details

Bermuda Triangle Pub – DJ Set: DJ Garphie, 9pm-1am
House, funk, and soul vibes upstairs in the Club Room.
See event details

Bricklayers, Ashley Cross – Live Music: Chris Payne, 9pm
A great night of live music from local musician Chris Payne.
See event details

Saturday

Gather, Dolphin Centre – Poole Vikings Model Club Exhibition, 10am-4pm
A fascinating showcase of scale model creations.
Find out more

Lighthouse, Poole – Bing’s Birthday, various times
A fun-filled family stage show celebrating Bing’s special day!
Book tickets

Jenkins & Sons, Penn Hill – International Women’s Day Live Music & DJ, 7pm-11pm
Celebrate with live music from Gemma Leanne followed by DJ Abi Lemon. Special offer: 2-for-1 cocktails all night.
See event details

Lighthouse, Poole – Coastal Comedy, 8pm
Live stand up comedy from the incredible Nathan Caton and more.
Book tickets

The Bricklayers, Ashley Cross – Live Music: Chris Payne, 9pm
An evening of great live music in a lively atmosphere.
See event details

Sunday

Upton House Open Day, 12pm-4:30pm
Explore the beautiful Upton House and enjoy guided tours of the historic site.
Find out more

The Britannia, Parkstone – Charity Quiz Night, 6:30pm
Join the fun and support Julia’s House Children’s Charity. £3 entry per person, with £2 going to the charity.
Find out more

The Oakdale Club – Sunday Quiz Night, 8pm
End the week with a classic pub quiz at The Oakdale Club.

Monday

The Bermuda Triangle, Ashley Cross – Quiz Night, 7:30pm
A lively quiz night with complimentary bar snacks. £3 per person.
See event details

The Grasshopper – Monday Quiz Night with CK, 7pm
Join Crazy Karl for a fun quiz night that everyone’s talking about!

Got an event you want promoting? Tell us about it!

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Got a story? Know an inspiring individual? Want to promote a local charity? We’d love to hear about it—just drop us a message at [email protected].

That’s it! See you next week!