Brownsea Island

Set sail to Brownsea for a family adventure and spot squirrels, climb trees and build dens. With a new natural play area to explore, little legs can also soar, leap and play just like our red squirrels and we've even got you covered for what to do on those rainy autumnal days.

Autumn is the best time of year to spot the infamous red squirrels on Brownsea. Scurrying about the woodland floor, eating and storing nuts and seeds for the a long winter, these delightful creatures really come into their own at this time of year.

Here we introduce you to some ways to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and embrace nature. With our new Calming Cambridge Woods Walk or autumnal self led trail, we're sure you'll be able to enjoy a moment of mindfulness at this quieter time of year.

What makes Brownsea's habitats so special? Here we share an overview and unearth the wildlife that live in the woodland and heathland habitats.

The island is home to over 200 rare red squirrels. Here we share a little more about these cheeky woodland characters and some top tips for spotting them when you next visit Brownsea Island.

The hides that overlook Brownsea's lagoon, lakes and reedbed provide the perfect perch to watch the spectacular comings and goings of many species of birds.

For over 20 years, the National Trust have been monitoring over 400 squirrel, bird and bat boxes on Brownsea Island. Here we lift the lid and find out what's been hiding inside...

The National Trust and Dorset Wildlife Trust has joined up with other landowners to create the largest lowland heath National Nature Reserve (NNR). Find out about how Brownsea is involved here.

The island's environment is carefully managed and monitored by our countryside ranger team and here we explain why this is especially important for the woodland.

As we gradually and safely open more of the places we care for, there’ll be more opportunities to explore gardens and parklands near you. If you’re a member, you can access all these places free, together with most National Trust car parks. It’s so important for everyone to have fresh air, birdsong, big skies and open spaces to enjoy. Your membership will go towards looking after all of this for generations to come.

For 125 years, people like you have helped us protect some of the UK's best-loved places. Everyone needs nature, beauty and green spaces now more than ever. But our income has dropped sharply due to the coronavirus crisis, and our essential conservation work is at risk. Please give what you can to help us look after these places, so people and nature can thrive.