Poole Quay will host more than 1,000 classic motorcycle enthusiasts on 17 May 2026 for the 15th anniversary of the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride. The charity event, which aims to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer research and men’s mental health through its partnership with Movember, is set to depart from the quay at 10:00am.
Organised by Poole Quay Events, the ride will take participants through Sandbanks and Westbourne before travelling past Bournemouth Pier. The route continues through Southbourne and Christchurch High Street, eventually finishing at the Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum in New Milton, Hampshire. The museum, which houses more than 300 rare motorcycles, will host the finish line between 12:00pm and 5:00pm.
This event forms part of a wider series of gatherings supported by Poole BID, which continues its role as the headline sponsor for the local events programme. The organisation’s commitment to the area was reaffirmed recently, with 83% of local businesses voting to renew its operations for another five-year term, as announced by the BCP Council.
In addition to the annual ride, the quay remains a focal point for motorcycle culture throughout the summer. The popular Bike Nights, also managed by the team behind Poole Quay Events—co-founders Anna Doyle and Michelle Smith—run every Tuesday from 5:30pm to 9:00pm until 29 September 2026. These free events have gained a new supporting partner this year in Hall & Woodhouse, a local family-run pub operator that is backing the series to encourage community participation.
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