Lighthouse, Poole

Lighthouse is Poole's Centre for the Arts and one of the UK's biggest arts centres outside London. Built in 1978 and radically refurbished to reopen in summer 2002, the venue has become a nationally significant cultural institution and a source of regional pride. The distinctive building, animated with lighter architectural forms and illuminated to create an attractive beacon after dark, reflects its role at the heart of the community.

The multi-arts venue encompasses diverse performance and exhibition spaces. The main theatre accommodates 669 seats, whilst the 1,500-seat concert hall is home to the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra. Additional facilities include a 150-seat studio, 105-seat cinema, exhibition galleries for photography and digital art, a restaurant, and function rooms. This breadth of spaces makes Lighthouse a flexible receiving venue for theatre, dance, music, film, and visual arts of the highest quality.

Operating as Poole Arts Trust Ltd, a registered charity supported by BCP Council and Arts Council England, Lighthouse is committed to providing an exciting year-round programme of nationally acclaimed arts whilst remaining deeply engaged with its local community. The Lighthouse Academy offers pathways for artistic development, and the Beacon Bar & Cafe (open Tuesday-Saturday) creates a welcoming social space. With round-the-clock online ticketing and dedicated accessibility provisions, Lighthouse serves as a beacon for arts and culture across the South West.