THIS is what Poole could look like this Christmas as the borough plans for a maritime-themed illuminated festival. 

For six weeks from November 19, Poole Christmas Maritime Light Festival will take residents on an illuminating nautical journey that starts at the gateways to Poole; the Twin Sails Bridge, Hunger Hill and the Lighthouse. 

Thousands of lights will be set up this Christmas for the free attraction, as the trail of lights will dazzle from Falkland Square, through the high street and onto Poole Quay, culminating in the harbour.   

The 120-metre maritime curtain of lights promises to give visitors a “bespoke under the sea experience”. 

Also in the festival there will be Christmas trees up to 11 metres tall, a couple of walk-through structures, light projections and glistening overhangs as well as a five metre tall ship and a giant anchor. 

Jacqui Rock, chief executive of Poole Town Centre Business Improvement District (BID), the main sponsor, said: “Poole has never had such an extensive Christmas event that reaches across the whole of the town centre and spans six weeks.  

“I’m particularly proud that it has been achieved without any increase in the budget from last year.” 

Jon Weaver, head of destination at BCP Council, added: “We wanted to try and make this a different concept to Christmas Tree Wonderland. That’s why we worked hard at the maritime theme, to offer a different experience which won’t be Bournemouth’s experience.” 

The free attraction will run for six weeks until January 2, 2023.