About Island

A beautiful and peaceful island in Poole Harbour with spectacular views of the harbour and Isle of Purbeck. Home to a variety of wildlife including rare red squirrels and birds. Habitats include pinewoods, heathland, seashore and lagoon. Fascinating history includes the island's use as a Victorian pottery and a daffodil farm. The island is known worldwide as the birthplace of the Scout and Guide movement after Robert Baden-Powell held the first ever experimental Scout camp here in 1907.

Information
Part of the island is leased to Dorset Wildlife Trust (tel. 01202 709445 for information). Brownsea Castle is not open to the public

Education
Suitable for school groups. Education room/centre. Hands-on activities. Children's guide. Children's quiz/trail. Family activity packs.

Families & children
Baby-changing facilities. Pushchairs and baby back-carriers admitted. All-terrain baby buggies for loan (booking advisable).

Refreshments
Coffee shop near landing quay. Hot and cold refreshments, children's lunch boxes, ice cream.

Coach parking
No coach parking, drop-off point 50yds. Nearest parking: Poole (Poole Stadium and near Dolphin Centre) and Sandbanks approx. 15 mins walk from drop-off point. Drop-off is at Poole Quay or Sandbanks Ferry close to the ferry boarding point.

History
There is evidence of a settlement in the area dating from the 5th century BC and further evidence suggesting the existence of a community there in the 3rd century AD and in medieval times. In the 16th century control of the island passed to Henry VIII who, recognising its strategic importance in protecting Poole, by now a thriving port, built the first Brownsea castle.
In 1962 the National Trust assumed control of Brownsea Island and today it has become a place to escape the noise and stress of modern life and discover nature. It is a haven for wildlife including red squirrels, peacocks and deer and is ideal for walks, picnics and for families to explore.
Opening arrangements
This property is now closed for the rest of 2006.

Opening arrangements from March 2007
 24 Mar–20 Jul 07  10–5 Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su
 21 Jul–2 Sep 07  10–6 Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su
 3 Sep–29 Sep 07  10–5 Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su
 30 Sep–28 Oct 07  10–4 Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su
KEY: Dark blue=open
Shop and Villano Café close 30mins before island. The island is open during the winter to booked groups only. Island closed on Wed 1 Aug for special event. Part of the island is leased to Dorset Wildlife Trust (tel. 01202 709445 for information). Brownsea Castle is not open to the public. Last admission 30mins before closing.

Admission prices

£4.40, child £2.20, family £11, family (1 adult) £6.50. Groups £3.80, child £1.90, Group visits outside normal hours £3.20