Peaceful island of woodland, wetland and heath with a rich diversity of wildlife
Fine walks and spectacular views of Poole Harbour
Home to the endangered red squirrel
Famous for being the birthplace for Scouting and Guiding
A haven for wildlife, including Sika deer and wading birds
Trails and Tracker Packs for young smugglers and explorers
Escape the noise and stress of modern life and discover nature in this unspoilt setting
Natural Beauty
Brownsea Island offers a varied and beautiful landscape for enjoying the wonders of nature; from the patchworks of woodland, heath and grassy fields in the peaceful and secluded interior, to the cliffs and beaches of the coastline, which offer breathtaking views across the harbour to the Purbeck Hills.
Baden-Powell Outdoor Centre
Come on an adventure to Brownsea Island and follow in the footsteps of Lord Baden-Powell and the very first Scouts who camped here in 1907. Our campsite and hostel are open to all recognised youth and educational groups. Sailing, canoeing, archery, orienteering, conservation work and more are all available on the island.
History and Scouting Heritage
Occupied since the Iron Age, Brownsea has seen a fascinating succession of owners. The most recent include the van Raaltes, who hosted the first Scout camp in 1907 led by Lord Baden-Powell. Reclusive private owner, Mary Bonham-Christie, then bought the island in 1927 and turned it into a dedicated nature conservation area.
Wildlife
Brownsea, home to BBC's Autumnwatch in 2008, is described by Bill Oddie 'as the best place for seeing wildlife in Dorset.' The island is home to a thriving population of the scarce and threatened red squirrel and offers winter shelter to a quarter of the UK's winter population of avocets; a black and white bird with a long, curved beak.
Bird Watching
The island is a fantastic location for bird watching. It is a habitat of national and international importance for a variety of birds including dunlin, kingfishers, common and sandwich terns and oystercatchers.
