Day visiting group trips to Brownsea Island
Brownsea Island is a great destination to bring your group, with plenty to see and do on your visit. Here's all the information you need to start planning your trip.
Why choose Brownsea?
Nestled in the heart of Poole Harbour, Brownsea Island offers an unforgettable escape for groups. Whether you’re seeking adventure, education, or a deep connection with nature, this unique island sanctuary has something extraordinary to offer everyone.
Here's all the information you need to start planning your trip.
- A Legacy of Adventure: As the birthplace of Scouting and Guiding, Brownsea Island has been nurturing adventurous spirits for over a century. It’s here that outdoor exploration meets timeless tradition, offering groups of all ages, from all around the world, the chance to follow in the footsteps of pioneers and create their own inspiring stories.
- As the only SCENES (Scouting Centres of Excellence for Nature and Environment Scheme) accredited site in the UK, Brownsea Island has been recognised for its excellence in combining outdoor adventure with nature and environmental education. Learn more about SCENES: Scout Centres of Excellence for Nature, Environment and Sustainability | WOSM
- Nature's Masterpiece: Designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), Brownsea is a haven for biodiversity. From red squirrels darting through ancient woodlands to rare birds nesting along tranquil lagoons, the island bursts with life. Whether you’re passionate about conservation, curious about sustainability, or simply eager to learn more about the environment, Brownsea provides countless opportunities to connect with nature in meaningful ways.
- An Adventure Begins Aboard: Your group’s day out to Brownsea Island starts the moment you board the ferry. Take in breathtaking views as you cruise through the harbour. With frequent departures from Poole Quay.
Brownsea Island isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience waiting to unfold. Come explore, learn, and celebrate the great outdoors on this unforgettable island retreat. Find out what outdoor activities are on offer here.
Planning your group visit
We invite groups to explore Brownsea Island during our visitor season, which runs from March to October. While we welcome groups year-round, capacity is limited during the busy summer months of July and August. To ensure availability and enhance your experience, we recommend booking well in advance and considering visits during our quieter periods outside of peak season.
Getting to Brownsea Island by ferry
Your journey starts with a scenic 20-minute ferry ride from Poole Quay. Once you’ve completed your booking request form, we’ll pre-book and sort your admission and ferry tickets, so on the day, all you need to do is step aboard and soak up the view.
How much time to spend at Brownsea
We recommend that you allow at least three hours for your visit.
Free familiarisation visits for group leaders
If you would like to visit the island ahead of your planned visit, we offer a free pre-bookable preliminary visit, including ferry fare, for up to two people. We’ll happily chat through your needs and help tailor your day to your group’s requirements. To request your familiarisation visit please email brownseagroupbookings@nationaltrust.org.uk
Booking your group visit
To book your visit please complete the Day Visit Request 2025. If we have availability, we’ll send you a link to make your payment and confirm your booking. The form contains all the information you need, including group rate prices, ferry times, and activities. We understand that plans can change, so feel free to adjust your group size up to two weeks before your visit.
As we have limited capacity, we ask that you give us as much notice as possible to avoid disappointment.
Please note that group bookings are subject to availability and operational requirements. We recommend that you don’t make any travel or other arrangements until we’ve confirmed your tour booking.
Educational group access pass
The Education Group Access Pass (formerly known as Education Group Membership) is specially designed to encourage access to National Trust places for groups whose students or members are in full-time or early years education.
We highly recommend that Schools, Colleges and Scout and Guides groups apply for the pass, as this will significantly reduce costs. The entire group will benefit from free admission to the island. Please note, everyone must pay the ferry fare.
For more information or to apply please visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/membership/education-group-membership
or contact the Supporter Service Centre: Telephone: 0344 800 1895 (local rates apply) email us: enquiries@nationaltrust.org.uk
Link Access Pass
Discover Brownsea Island with our Link Access Pass, offering half-price entry for groups from disability charities, day centres, or registered care homes. Carers or companions join free, ensuring everyone can enjoy a day designed with accessibility in mind. We’ll help tailor your visit to suit your group’s needs, whether it’s pacing the day, selecting accessible routes, or focusing on wildlife and history. Our volunteer concierges and access champions are on hand to assist, providing support and insider tips to make your trip seamless and special. Submit your group booking request, and we’ll arrange your ferry and customise your experience. To request your visit book here Day Visit Request 2025
For more information send us an email at brownseagroupbookings@nationaltrust.org.uk
The Links Pass gives half-price entry to groups affiliated with disability charities, day centres, or registered care homes. Carers or companions with the group are welcome free of charge.
To order your pass or card, get in touch with the Supporter Services Centre on 0344 800 1895
Email us at enquiries@nationaltrust.org.uk or write to us at National Trust, PO Box 7083, Stratford-Upon-Avon, CV37 1XE.
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Visiting Brownsea Island from Poole Quay
In this article you'll find all you need to know to plan your visit to Brownsea, including how to get here by ferry.
Wildlife watching on Brownsea Island
Take a walk on Brownsea Island, Dorset, and encounter a variety of birds and other wildlife that calls this island sanctuary in Poole Harbour, home.
Eating and shopping on Brownsea Island
Fuel up for your adventure at the Villano Café, where you'll find a wide variety of hot and cold drinks, snacks and light meals. Elsewhere, shop for a Brownsea Island souvenir at the Trading Post and browse our second-hand bookshop.
Education Group Access Pass
If you’re planning educational group visits to National Trust places, then you could benefit from an Education Group Access Pass, which gives you free admission for a year.
Explorer Pass
If you're planning a trip in England, Wales or Northern Ireland this year, buy a National Trust Explorer Pass for entry to most of the places in our care. With 4-, 8- and 14-day options available, the pass can be tailored to fit your trip. Discover where you can visit with the Explorer Pass and how to buy yours.
Group visits frequently asked questions
Visiting a National Trust place with a group? Then our answers to your frequently asked questions might help with any question you may have.