Summer family adventures on Brownsea Island

There's lots to see and do at Brownsea Island, whatever the weather, to help you spend time together as a family. Let imaginations run wild in our natural play area and cross some of the '50 things' off your list as you explore the island and take part in our seasonal trails.
Located at the heart of the island, families will find our natural play area equipped with balancing beams, climbing frames and see-saws. Here you can practice soaring, scrambling and scampering - can you match the agility of our resident rare red squirrels?


Playing your part in conservation
Did you know that in playing here you will be helping us to regenerate this area of heathland by helping turn over the soil at the same time? We plan to move the play area every 8-10 years to make the most of this valuable contribution you make to the habitats.
There's lots of activities on the '50 things to do before you're 11¾' list to keep you busy on the island. No. 32 Float in a boat, can be crossed off your list as soon you step aboard for your ferry ride to Brownsea – a great way to begin a day’s adventure. And it doesn't stop there. The challenges listed below are some of our favourites that you can do on the island – why not have a go when you next visit? As well as the option to tick off welly wandering – perfect for rainy days on the island – you can eat a picnic in the wild, make friends with a bug, go cloudwatching, discover wild animal clues and find your way with a map.