Brownsea Island

What to see

Approximately 1½ miles long by ¾ mile wide, Brownsea Island lies just inside the entrance to Poole Harbour. It offers magnificent views across the harbour, the Purbeck Hills and Studland Bay and is home to the Scout Movement and the last of the Red Squirrell in the UK.

Just a short and enjoyable boat trip from the bustle of Poole or Bournemouth, the charm of the landscape, the rich variety of wildlife and an intriguing heritage, make Brownsea a fascinating place to visit.

Opening Times
Brownsea Island is open to visitors from Saturday 27th March to Sunday 31st November 2004 (inclusive).

Ferry Services
Ferry boats run daily from:

Poole Quay - 20 minute journey out, 35 minutes back, continuing the "harbour cruise". Normally 2 boats per hour, weather and tides permitting.

Sandbanks - 10 minute crossing. Normally 2 boats per hour.

Bournemouth Pier - 25 minute journey.
(Monday Wednesday & Friday only, until daily service in mid-summer)
Swanage – please check times.

Please check time of the last public boat returning from the island to your starting point.

All boats will accept and help wheelchairs and children's pushchairs; but cycles are not allowed. Visitors may also land in their own boats at the Pottery Pier at the western end of the island, accessible at all stages of tide. Dogs are not permitted to land on the island.

Fares & Admission Charges
Ferries: (Return fares)
Adult Child Senior Citizen
Poole Quay £5.50 £3.50 £4.50
Sandbanks £3.50 £2.50 £3.00
Bournemouth £5.00 £1.00 £5.00
Swanage £5.00 £1.00 £5.00

National Trust Landing fees : (Free to NT members)
Adult : £3.90
Child (Age 5-17 years) : £1.90 (under 5 years free)
Family ticket : £9.70 (2 adults & 3 children).
Single Parent Family: £5.80 (1 Adult & 3 children)
Parties (minimum 15 persons)
Adult : £3.60
Child : £1.60
(For concessionary rates, parties must be booked and paid at least 2 weeks prior to visit). Send cheques payable to 'The National Trust'.

Nature Reserve
Access to the Nature Reserve is controlled by The Dorset Wildlife Trust. For details of guided and self-guided tours, and admission charges please call in advance.