Why Autumn is one of the best times of year to visit Brownsea Island
As the summer crowds fade and the leaves begin to turn, Brownsea Island is the perfect autumn retreat. Located in the heart of Poole Harbour, this National Trust treasure offers tranquillity, stunning wildlife spectacles, and unforgettable views.
Autumn is one of the best times to spot Brownsea’s most iconic residents, the red squirrels. With over 100 of them calling Brownsea home, visitors are often treated to the sight of them gathering nuts for the winter, but it isn’t just the leaves that change colour during this season, the squirrels do too, with their tails taking on a darker, almost black tone.
Free guided Red Squirrel walks
Throughout autumn, the National Trust offers free guided red squirrel walks twice daily, giving visitors the opportunity to learn more about these charming creatures. For an extra-special experience, join one of the exclusive November squirrel walks, which run after the island closes to the public. These events finish with a cream tea served in the historic Brownsea Castle.
Best birdwatching site in England!
Birdwatchers are in for a treat when visiting the island, as Poole Harbour is one of the best birdwatching sites in England, with over 20,000 birds arriving over the autumn to take advantage of the harbour’s sheltered conditions, warmer climate and abundance of food, with many of these birds heading to Brownsea lagoon.
The Lookout wildlife observatory and the various hides clustered around the edge of the lagoon on the Dorset Wildlife Trust reserve offer a great perch to watch all the comings and goings, with birds like the Sandwich and common tern leaving for Africa and new arrivals, such as spoonbill, godwit and avocet, gathering in impressive numbers.
Fungi Foray!
Brownsea’s fungi forays are another seasonal nature highlight, led by local experts from the Dorset Fungus Group who explore the fascinating world of fungi and their symbiotic relationship with trees.
There are many different species of fungi on the island, popping up in all shapes, sizes and colours. Species include, common earth balls, shaggy ink caps and fly agaric.
Stunning Autumn walks
With its 9km coastal path, Brownsea offers some of the most stunning autumn walks in Dorset. Gaze across Poole Harbour to Sandbanks and the Purbeck Hills, with the chalky silhouettes of Old Harry Rocks just visible on the horizon. The sea breeze, rustling leaves, and ripening berries make any walk on Brownsea Island special.
Sleep under the stars
If you fancy staying for longer, the historic campsite is open until the end of September, offering a chance to sleep under the stars and wake up to the sound of birdsong on this peaceful, traffic-free island.
With easy access to the beach and the option to hire tree or bell tents, it’s a very special way to experience the island’s magic after the day-trippers have gone home.
Mystical Woodland Quest
During October half term, families can take part in Brownsea’s Mystical Woodland Quest Trail, a magical journey where nature and folklore intertwine.
Children and adults are invited to explore the stories of the oak, birch, and yew trees, uncovering secrets of the forest through storytelling, nature exploration, and activities.
Whether you’re drawn by the promise of red squirrels, a passion for birdwatching or the simple joy of an autumn walk, Brownsea Island is well worth a visit.
But don’t wait too long, as the island closes for the season on November 3. For more information about What’s On at Brownsea Island visit the National Trust website.
