I VISITED the new Christmas Maritime Light Festival in Poole- here’s how it went.

Following months of anticipation, Poole finally unveiled its newest Christmas attraction on Saturday evening.

The light festival had been advertised as a festive trail of illuminations through the town, seeing it quickly dubbed as Poole’s answer to Bournemouth’s Christmas Tree Wonderland.

I thought I would visit on its opening night to make my own comparisons.

I headed to Poole shortly before 5pm, giving myself time to get parked before the sun began to set.

It was a bitter evening, but the skies were clear, and spirits were high.

Bournemouth Echo: Christmas Maritime Light Festival in PooleChristmas Maritime Light Festival in Poole (Image: Richard Crease)

Visitors were encouraged to follow the trail as set out by the Maritime Light Festival- a journey beginning in Falkland Square, moving through the High Street and then onto Poole Quay- so this is exactly what I did.

The first feature I came across was a towering Christmas tree that illuminated all stretches of Falkland Square. This knock-out feature is known as the ‘Deep Sea’ tree and was a great way to kick start the trail.

As I carried on through the high street, I passed plenty more festive illuminations, including a giant bauble, a model of Olde Harry’s ship and a bobble hat themed tree.

What was great was that many of these displays could be walked through, or sat down inside, making for great photograph opportunities.

I also liked how spaced out the decorations were. They stretched across the whole town, meaning you could easily make a whole evening of strolling through.

Bournemouth Echo: Christmas Maritime Light Festival in PooleChristmas Maritime Light Festival in Poole (Image: Richard Crease)

On approach to Poole Quay, the nautical theme had really kicked in, with a 120-metre maritime curtains of lights strung above the street to create an ‘under the sea’ experience.

The trail culminated by the harbour, and this was the area that impressed me the most.

A giant anchor lit by blue LED lights, a walk-through snowflake arch and ‘Tinsel the turtle’ were just some of the water-side features that left me feeling very festive.

There were also children’s fairground rides, and crowds congregating outside the quay’s pubs, creating a bustling and fun atmosphere.

I really enjoyed my visit to the Maritime Light Festival in Poole, and would recommend it to anyone looking kickstart their Christmas celebrations.

The festival will continue until January 2, 2023.