Brownsea Island

Had a wonderful 3rd trip to the island with my partner - they have some great new hides - we saw a lot of wildlife and young wildlife too. Definitely be returning! Walnut cake in the cafe was fab & the volunteers were all awesome!

It was bigger than i thought. Can't do it all in one day. Place is amazing with breathing views across the harbour. The staff was very helpful and chatty. Very passionate. Saw a few red squirrels and plenty of wild life. Heaven for birds. Will definately go back again to visit the rest of the island and the old village now in ruins on the other side of the island.

A real hidden gem! Took the ferry from Poole Harbour (around 20 mins) and spent a fantastic few hours exploring Brownsea Island. It’s a National Trust site, so well looked after and full of natural beauty. Lovely woodland walks with loads of wildlife – we spotted all sorts of birds, several red squirrels, and even a deer! Peaceful, scenic, and perfect for a relaxing day out in nature. Bring comfy shoes and maybe a picnic. Highly recommended!

Spent the day here with my partner and baby for Mother’s Day and it was 100% the right decision for my first Mother’s Day. The weather was perfect, the island is beautiful and the grounds and walkways immaculately kept. We had a picnic by the church to make the most of the day, and the staff at the visitor centre were really friendly. We bought an annual membership for the national trust so want to come back again very soon.

Brownsea Island is a hidden gem nestled in Poole Harbour, Dorset, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and history. Accessible only by boat, the journey itself sets the tone for a peaceful escape from the mainland. The island is most famous as the birthplace of the Scouting movement, and there's a strong sense of heritage that still lingers in the open fields where Baden-Powell held his first experimental camp in 1907. For history enthusiasts, the Visitor Centre provides a well-curated glimpse into this past, along with information on the island’s role in WWII and its earlier monastic ownership. Nature lovers will be in their element here. Managed in part by the National Trust and Dorset Wildlife Trust, the island is one of the few places in southern England where red squirrels thrive, thanks to the absence of grey squirrels. Birdwatchers will also appreciate the lagoons, which attract a wide variety of migratory birds, especially during spring and autumn. Walking trails are well maintained and vary in length, catering to both casual strollers and those looking for a more strenuous hike. The views across Poole Harbour and out to the Purbeck Hills are spectacular, especially from the island’s higher points. Facilities are simple but sufficient, with a small café offering refreshments and light meals, and picnic areas dotted throughout the island. The lack of cars and commercial development adds to the island’s tranquil charm. Overall, Brownsea Island is a perfect day out for families, walkers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those looking to reconnect with nature and history. Be sure to check tide times and ferry schedules when planning your visit.