An Enchanting adventure

From the moment you step ashore, Brownsea Island feels like another world.

It sits in the middle of Poole Harbour with stunning views across to the Purbeck Hills. Wander through woodland, across heathland and by lagoons in search of secret beaches, red squirrel and a huge variety of birds, including the resident peacocks.

Owned by the National Trust, Brownsea is a wildlife sanctuary with tree-climbing trails, tracker packs and a lovely natural play area to enjoy.

Discover the island’s history of daffodil farming, pottery works, the village of Maryland and the story of the Scouting and Guiding movement, which began here.

There are special events, walks, talks and buggy tours for less-mobile visitors (booking essential) and annual open-air theatre performances. If you have forgotten to pack a picnic, the Villano Cafe and Brownsea Island Shop are open until the last boat leaves for the mainland.

There is an entrance fee payable onto the island, in addition to the foot ferry ticket. From Burnbake, park at Studland, hop on the ferry to Sandbanks where a ferry departs to Brownsea (01929 462383). There are also numerous services from Poole Quay.