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Volunteering on Brownsea Island

A volunteer wearing red work gloves smiles with an armful of dried bracken
A volunteer clears bracken on Brownsea Island | © National Trust Images/John Miller

Please find information about opportunities on Brownsea Island below.

Volunteering on Brownsea

Volunteers are a vital part of the National Trust and we couldn't manage without the commitment of thousands of people across the UK. On Brownsea Island, the energy and passion our volunteers bring by supporting our conservation work, showing people wildlife, giving every visitor a warm welcome, alongside many other tasks is truly invaluable. In return, volunteers gain new skills, friendships and the wellbeing boost that comes from spending time in nature and contributing to something meaningful.

Right now, Brownsea Island isn’t recruiting new volunteers after a very successful open day in January, but other National Trust places across Dorset are. If you’re keen to make a difference, there are plenty of opportunities nearby where your time and enthusiasm would be hugely valued. For more information please click here.

The Brownsea Café team showing their work experience team member how to make coffee.
The Brownsea Café team showing their work experience team member how to make coffee. | © National Trust/ Dania Schmitz-Vaughan

Work Experience 2026

Applications for 2026 have now closed and for the 2027 cohort application will open in January 2027. 

Volunteers working in the woodland at Wentworth Castle, Yorkshire, clearing fallen leaves

Fancy getting involved?

Whether you're looking to help in the great outdoors, work with the public or get up close and personal with the houses, take a look at what's happening near you.

Volunteer with the National Trust

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Volunteer with us 

There are hundreds of different ways you can volunteer for the National Trust at historic houses, in the gardens or at the many coastal and countryside landscapes we care for.

Volunteer sat inside a medieval manor house at Brockhampton, Herefordshire, talking to a visitor

Meet the volunteers 

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to volunteer with us? From perfecting the art of lavender topiary to giving talks at historic houses, a selection of volunteers share their stories about helping out at some of the places we care for.

A woman with long black hair is tending to some plants in a walled garden on a sunny day. She is wearing a raincoat and has a smile on her face.

Supporter groups in Dorset 

Whether you want to get hands on helping with conservation work in the great outdoors, or enjoy special talks and visits to properties and gardens, find a group for you.

Two volunteers in National Trust jackets sit at a picnic table on Studland Beach, sharing drinks and cake

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