After a break for the winter, the beautiful Brownsea Island Nature Reserve opens at weekends from 19th February to 27th March, from 2 – 4pm.
From the 2nd April the island will then be open daily, with regular boat services from Sandbanks and Poole Quay.Brownsea Island is owned by the National Trust and is the largest of eight islands in Poole Harbour, Dorset. The Nature Reserve is located in the northern part of the island and is managed by Dorset Wildlife Trust.
The Reserve has hosted the BBC’s Autumn Watch programme and is a truly wonderful place to see wildlife in Dorset. It has a variety of unspoilt and peaceful landscapes, ranging from lakes and woodland, to lagoons, cliffs and beaches. It’s a very important habitat for birds, especially large flocks of visiting wildfowl over the winter, and is one of the few places in southern England where it’s possible to see a thriving red squirrel population.In 1907 Brownsea Island hosted the first Scout camp, led by Lord Baden-Powell. Today the campsite and hostel provide activities such as orienteering, archery and sailing to youth and educational groups.
For more information on opening times and details of boat services to the island, see the Brownsea Island Nature Reserve website.If you’re planning a trip to Dorset, we offer a choice of wonderful eco-friendly bed and breakfast and self-catering accommodation, in an outstanding location, with spectacular views over the Jurassic Coast. Please contact us for more details, or to book accommodation.
