Discover Brownsea Island
Nestled in the heart of Poole Harbour, Brownsea Island is a jewel of the Dorset coast. Famous for its rare red squirrels, diverse birdlife, and unspoilt landscapes, the island is also steeped in history – from medieval monks to Tudor castles, and even the birthplace of the global Scouting movement. Today, it forms part of the Purbeck National Nature Reserve and welcomes visitors seeking adventure, wildlife, and tranquillity.
A Journey Through History
Early beginnings
Brownsea’s story stretches back over a thousand years. In the 9th century, monks from Cerne Abbey established a chapel and hermitage here, offering spiritual support to passing sailors.
Brownsea Castle
During the reign of Henry VIII, the island gained strategic importance. A defensive blockhouse was built to guard against French attacks, evolving over centuries into Brownsea Castle. Since the 1960s, the castle has been privately managed by the John Lewis Partnership.
The birth of Scouting
In 1907, Robert Baden-Powell chose Brownsea Island for an experimental camp. That weeklong gathering laid the foundations for the worldwide Scouting movement, a legacy still celebrated today.
A sanctuary for nature
The island’s last private owner, Mary Bonham Christie, ended farming and shooting, turning Brownsea into a haven for wildlife. Following her death in 1961, conservationists led by Helen Brotherton secured the island’s future with the support of The National Trust, the Dorset Naturalists Trust, John Lewis & Partners, and the Scouting Association.
Wildlife and Natural Wonders
Brownsea Island is internationally recognised for its thriving habitats. Visit here to discover…
• Red squirrels – One of the last strongholds in southern England for these iconic creatures. Around 250 are thought to live here, and lucky visitors may spot them darting through the trees.
- Wild birds – The lagoon is a vital haven for birds including avocets, sandwich terns, black-tailed godwits, gulls, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
- Other wildlife – Look out for sika deer, water voles, reptiles, and colourful kingfishers among the reedbeds, woodlands, and wetlands.
- Stunning views – Wander through shaded woodland paths to find breathtaking views across Poole Harbour and the rolling Purbeck Hills, with quiet natural beaches along the way.
- Lookout Observatory – With panoramic lagoon views, interactive displays, and a detailed island map to guide your adventure.
Our favourites things to spot….
- Pottery on the beach – Thousands of fragments from a failed 1850s pottery venture still scatter the sands near Pottery Pier and Maryland. Colonel William Waugh bought the island to establish to use the clay deposits to create high-quality porcelain. Unfortunately for him the clay proved unsuitable for fine china, and could only be used for pipes and chimney pots. When the business became bankrupt Colonel Waugh and his wife Mary fled to Spain.
- The lost village of Maryland – Once home to pottery workers, the village was named after Colonel Waugh’s wife. It was later damaged during WWII when Brownsea was used as a decoy site. You can still find traces of this vanished community among the woods.
- WWII Craters: In 1941, RAF crews used pyrotechnics and staged fires to mimic a bombed-out Poole, successfully drawing enemy planes away. Reminders of this unique wartime role remain visible today. Brownsea Island was also used as a temporary reception and distribution centre for Dutch and Belgian refugees during World War II, shortly after the German invasion of France and Belgium in May 1940.
Events and Experiences
Brownsea offers a full calendar of activities for nature lovers, families, and history enthusiasts.
- Guided tours uncovering the island’s colourful past.
- Family trails and bushcraft sessions designed to inspire young explorers.
- Red Squirrel walks – seasonal guided trips to spot the island’s most famous residents.
- Open-air theatre and music during the summer months.
Relax and enjoy
Have lunch at Brownsea Island: Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots, or stop by the island café with its sweeping harbour views. Children can enjoy the natural play areas and nature trails.
Visiting Brownsea Island – useful information
Seasonal opening
Brownsea Island welcomes visitors from March/April to October.
Camping on Brownsea
You can even camp at Brownsea Island, offering a unique opportunity to experience the island’s nature and wildlife in the quiet hours after day visitors have left. More details on the National Trust website.
Getting there
Catch a ferry with Greenslade Pleasure Boats from Poole Quay (opposite Tesco Express). The 20-minute crossing costs £14.50 (adult) / £6.00 (child), payable at the orange kiosk. More details on the Greenslade website
Entrance fees (correct as of Sept 2025)
Adults: £11.00 / Children: £5.50
Accessibility
- Wheelchair access – The Seahorse landing craft provides transport from Sandbanks Yacht Club. Once on the island, visitors can hire all-terrain wheelchairs and walking poles.
- Squirrel Shuttle – A guided tour bus for those with limited mobility.
- British Sign Language tours – A self-guided digital BSL experience, exploring the island’s history and heritage.
Why Visit Brownsea Island?
Whether you come for the rare wildlife, the fascinating history, or simply the peace of a woodland walk, Brownsea Island promises an unforgettable day. With its mix of culture, conservation, and coastal beauty, it’s a place where the past and present live side by side – waiting to be discovered.