The first words that come to mind when thinking of Brownsea Island are red squirrels, wildlife, and scouting. With coastal views of the Purbeck Hills, amazing trails, and rich history, there is so much to see and take in throughout the year*. Brownsea Island is ideal for fresh spring days, during the summer, and when autumn leaves start falling. It closes during the winter; for full details of up-to-date openings, please visit the website.
Brownsea Island is situated in Poole Harbour and transports you to a paradise of nature as soon as you step off a yellow Brownsea Island ferry running from Poole Quay. Some enjoy reaching it via their own boats or kayaks during opening hours, preferring to land on the South Shore beaches.
It is the place to visit for the variety of flourishing flora and fauna to behold there, and it is the perfect place for a picnic on the beach, in the woods, or in the fields. The woodland and heathland animals residing there include the rare red squirrels, peacocks, hens, a variety of birds in the nature reserve, and the docile deer situated near the 19th-century church.
As you explore the island, you will come across Pottery Pier, which is surrounded by shards of ceramics that were crafted there. The ceramics left behind are a clue into the island’s rich history of prosperous industries, including not only pottery but also daffodil and cattle farming. On your visit, look out for the visible remnants of the village of Maryland, where all the workers and their families lived.
As the place of origin for Scouting and Guides, Brownsea Island is key in the history of the Scouting community and welcomes thousands of Scouts and Guides from all over the world. In Poole Quay, before boarding your vessel of choice to Brownsea, be sure to say hello to Lord Baden Powell’s statue, which resides there. Lord Baden Powell organised the first Scout camps on the island, and the idea for the Scouting movement came from there.
The Outdoor Centre, located by the first Scouting campsite, is great for camping, overnight stays, and other activities, and it is popular with school groups too. Brownsea Island is the perfect place to spend quality time as a family, with different trails and spaces to play. Keep an eye on the Brownsea Island website for details of activities available during school holidays, themed trails, and bug hunting. Wildlife tours and Brownsea Open-Air Theatre are great options for the summer months.
Before or after your visit, you can enjoy the scenic views surrounding Poole Quay and appreciate the culinary delights on offer there. There is so much to explore and enjoy in the area, with all the attractions and landscapes Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole have to offer. After a full day out, hotels, B&Bs, and self-catering accommodation in Poole may be just what you need. A range of quality accommodations are available to suit all budgets to ensure you have the most comfortable and special stay.
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