Brownsea Island
A National Trust island in Poole Harbour, home to one of Britain's few populations of red squirrels. It is also the birthplace of the Scout movement.
Brownsea Island has woodland, wetlands and lagoons. It is home to rare native British red squirrels, sika deer and large numbers of wading birds. A bird-watching hide overlooks the lagoon, where you can see spoonbills and avocets. In 1907, Baden-Powell held the first Scout camp here, marking the start of the worldwide Scout movement. The ferry from Poole Quay or Sandbanks takes about 20 minutes. Ferry fares and island entry fees are paid separately. Visitors can walk around the island in about half a day.
Opening hours
About March–October, 10:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- Studland Bay
- Old Harry Rocks
- Swanage Railway
- Swanage
- Durlston Country Park
- Corfe Castle
- Dancing Ledge
- The Etches Collection