Pictures of Brownsea Island

a National Trust Attraction in the town of Poole, in the county of Dorset

Looking towards the Isle Of Purbeck from Brownsea Island, Dorset

About Brownsea Island

Brownsea Island is the largest island in Poole Harbour, it is around 1 mile long by 3/4 mile broad; it is beautifully wooded with some lovely open spaces. Historically, it was to this peaceful island that Robert Baden-Powell set up his very first Boy Scout camp, early in the 20th-century, with boys from diverse backgrounds, some of little or no education, but it proved the start of a world-wide movement which is still in operation today.

The island is the largest of the 5 islands scattered around Poole Harbour, it is home to a vast nature reserve which houses endearing red squirrels, peacocks and deer, there are also sightings of many species of wild sea birds. Features of the island are its two large acid lakes, freshwater reedbeds and a saline lagoon. There are several viewing hides and trails to explore - these are especially delightful for youngsters, with hints of when smugglers lived in these parts!

Brownsea Castle on the island is not open to the public, but there is a visitor and education centre where you can see exhibitions to do with island life, and a cafe for refreshments.

A new cliff-top walk has been developed, this gives lovely views of Poole Harbour

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Nearby travel help

Parkstone Station	(2.3 miles, 3.7 km, direction N)
Poole Station	(2.6 miles, 4.2 km, direction NW)
Bournemouth Airport	(8.5 miles, 13.7 km, direction NE)
M27 Junction 1	(22.7 miles, 36.5 km, direction NE)
M27 Junction 2	(25.9 miles, 41.6 km, direction NE)
Southampton Airport	(32.1 miles, 51.7 km, direction NE)
Brownsea Island to London	(97.8 miles, 157.3 km, direction NE)

Hotels near Brownsea Island

	The Haven 161 Banks Rd, Sandbanks, Dorset, England (0.6 miles, 1.0 km) The Haven is located literally on the waters edge, on the famous Sandbanks peninsula in Poole. The facilities at the 77-bedroom hotel include everything you would expect from a four-star hotel and mor... More info and book online.. Price from £108.00
	Sandbanks Hotel 15 Banks Rd, Sandbanks, Poole, Dorset, England (1.2 miles, 2.0 km, direction E) One of the first impressions you will have on arrival at the Sandbanks is the stunning view. The Sandbanks is one of the only hotels in the country with direct access to a blue flag beach! During yo... More info and book online.. Price from £92.00
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