GO to Brownsea Island

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Brownsea Island is a small private island owned by the National Trust which is opened to visitors in the Spring and Summer months. Located just off Poole it’s one of the bigger islands of Poole Harbour.

It is famous for its Red Squirrels which are an endangered species. There are also free-roaming Peacocks on the island which you will bump into while walking around. They especially seem to congregate around the church.

Brownsea Castle

Brownsea Castle is owned by John Lewis who has made it into a hotel. It isn’t available for the public to stay there. It was made for the employees of the island and their family members to come and stay.

Fun Fact: Brownsea Island Castle is said to be haunted. Shadows have been seen walking the hallways beds rattle and footsteps can be heard on the stairs.

Brownsea Island Accommodation

The National Trust have some cottages they let out to people who want to stay on the Island. They have 2 cottages which are suitable for 10 guests. To find out more and to book go to the National Trust website.

South Shore Lodge

South Shore Lodge is a beautiful house on Brownsea Island and is available for groups of 12. It’s a beautiful Victorian house with basic bunk bed accommodation. It has its own garden, beach access and views of the Purbeck Hills. To book South Shore Lodge go to the National Trust website.

Can you camp on Brownsea Island?

Camping is allowed on Brownsea Island. There are pitches available to book through the National Trust website. You will need to bring your own camping equipment including a tent. There is also access to a kitchen and cooking equipment is provided. The only cooking equipment not provided is cutlery.

Fun Fact: Be aware that Brownsea Island is said to be haunted. A young boy in strange clothes has been spotted numerous times around the campsite by guests and staff. Sometimes he asked for directions to a farm to collect milk for his family. Other times he just passes through.

Brownsea Island Tree Tents

A new feature on Brownsea Island is the introduction of Tree Tents. Available in 2 and 3 person tents. They have built-in mosquito nets and warm waterproof material.

There is a minimum age to stay in a Tree Tent of 3 years old.

Communal wash facilities and toilets are provided for both camping and Tree Tents. For food, there is a cafe on the island which is open during the day.

Can you take your car to Brownsea Island?

Unfortunately, cars are not allowed on Brownsea Island. The Island is a nature reserve and not suitable for many cars.

Can you have a barbeque on Brownsea Island?

Barbeques and fires are prohibited on the Island.

How to get to Brownsea Island

Brownsea Island is pretty simple to get to. You’ll need to catch a bus from Bournemouth to Poole Quay. There you can get a ticket for the ferry from Poole Quay to Brownsea Island.

Are dogs allowed on Brownsea Island?

Due to the island being protected and owned by the National Trust dogs are not allowed on the Island. Guide dogs are permitted on the island though.