If you love a day in nature with brilliant views and lots of woodland to explore, then Brownsea Island is a delight to visit.
With lots of interesting spots, picnic areas and activities for children, you can spend the whole day on the island and find lots to do.
Famous for its wildlife, scouting and red squirrels, it’s a magical place to see.
Owned by The National Trust, offering lots of family fun and no entry fee for members, it can be a great day out at a reasonable price.
Here are some of the great things Brownsea Island has to offer. Everyone should experience this little piece of paradise on Poole Harbour.
Brownsea Island is the largest of eight islands located in Poole Harbour at 1.5 miles long and offers fantastic views from all angles, whether it’s of Sandbanks, Poole Quay or the rolling hills of The Purbecks.
It’s also the birthplace of Scouting.
Lieutenant-General Baden-Powell organised Scout Camp on the island in 1907 for boys to camp and completed various challenges and tasks in exchange for a badge.
Baden-Powell went on to write his book ‘Scouting for Boys’ based on the scout camp.
The island is still used today for scouts, guides and seasonal campers to stay overnight.
To visit Brownsea Island visitors must go across by the public ferry. There is a separate pre-bookable service for wheelchair users that leaves from Sandbanks.
📌 Note: Although National Trust members get free entry onto the island, the ferry is not free, and there will be a charge when you arrive.
The journey is short and adds to the fun of the day out. Children will love riding on top of the ferry and spotting the various boats and jetskis that sail across Poole Harbour.
Guided tours are held daily, and there is a brilliant hop-on hop-off service for less-abled visitors to make sure they can explore lots of the island and not miss out on any of the sights. Booking is advised.
Visitors can also book an all-terrain wheelchair or pushchair, which users can really benefit from.
It’s advised to book in advance. However, you can turn up and get one on a first-come, first-served basis.
The scenery and walks you’ll experience are breathtaking.
With lots of thriving woodland, heathland, and a lagoon to wander around, there are lots of opportunities to sit peacefully, take photos, draw or just take it all in.
The terrain is varied, so be aware when visiting, and appropriate footwear is best.
Along the way, you’ll see the church of St Mary’s, built in 1853 by the then-owner to serve the 200 people who lived on the island.
It is a Grade II listed building and today still holds services and weddings.
Lots of pathways are open for visitors to wander, some more accessible than others.
Views of the sea can be seen between the gaps in the trees, and jetskis can be heard whizzing around.
On a warm summer’s day, it feels like being transported to somewhere exotic.
Around the island, you’ll see activities for children to enjoy while on the walk around the island.
The wind chimes (pictured below) are a hit with all ages; rubbings, weaving, and woodland trails are free to do and add to the adventure.
The natural play area is a huge obstacle course waiting for children to climb, balance and build dens.
A wonderful opportunity for them to use their imaginations and use up their endless energy.
Picnic tables are positioned all around the island (including the play area), giving lots of spots to enjoy.
Tranquil areas can be found, such as the lily pond; relax, take a moment and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Brownsea Island is a haven for wildlife, being one of the few places in the UK for red squirrels.
With a pine and oak woodland surrounding the island it offers lots in the way of flora and fauna.
Other animals that can be seen are peacocks, kingfishers, ducks and chickens.
Heather, wildflowers, holly, oak, pine trees and more can be found throughout, adding lots of colours and textures against the sea in the distance.
You’ll find the visitor centre roughly halfway on the island, here you can discover information about the wildlife and red squirrels that inhabit the island.
There are toilets located here also and a snack van for refreshments and light bites.
A rope swing gives a perfect view of The Purbecks and other islands close by.
Sitting here, especially during quiet periods, can be relaxing and secluded, making it a lovely spot to sit and reflect or enjoy a picnic.
Pottery Pier has a lot of history and is a unique part of the island.
In 1852, an ex-army officer, Colonel William Waugh, wanted to manufacture high-quality porcelain made from the white clay found on the island.
He grew a company that expanded to 200 employees; however, the Brownsea clay wasn’t suitable for making fine china.
By 1887, it was closed due to lack of demand.
Today, all over the beach and pier, there are remnants of pottery that are a reminder of what once was.
It is a secluded spot and one to venture down to as it is a unique and interesting sight.
The Villano Cafe is a picture-perfect spot for visitors to enjoy a bite to eat.
The cafe serves a range of breakfast and lunch items, such as bacon rolls, soups, sausage rolls, sandwiches and salads.
Not forgetting dessert with cakes, shortbread and scones on offer.
The seating outside has the perfect backdrop of the ocean, boats and the famous Millionaires Row at Sandbanks.
A private white sandy beach and jetty can be seen from the cafe and add to the picturesque surroundings.
Brownsea Island is full of history, wildlife and beautiful sights everywhere you look.
It’s the perfect day out for any outdoor adventurers and everyone should try and visit to experience how lovely it is.
For more information, visit The National Trust website.
Thanks for checking us out, and have fun on your next adventure.
