Brownsea Island
This circular walk takes you on a tour of the beautiful Brownsea Island off the coast of Poole in Dorset.
The island is owned by the National Trust and has a number of delightful paths and tracks for walkers to follow. You will enjoy fabulous views of Poole harbour on the coastal stretches and see red squirrels and peacocks on the inland woodland sections. The island also has a number of bird hides where you can look out for the huge variety of birdlife that visit the island all year round. Also of note is the Baden-Powell Outdoor Centre where you can follow in the footsteps of Lord Baden-Powell and the very first Scouts who camped on the island in 1907.
Ferries can be caught from Poole Quay or Sandbanks - click here for information and times
If you click on the street view link below you can enjoy a virtual tour of the island!
Postcode
BH13 7EE - Please note: Postcode may be approximate for some rural locationsPlease click here for more information
Brownsea Island Ordnance Survey Map 
- view and print off detailed OS map
Brownsea Island Open Street Map 
- view and print off detailed map
Brownsea Island OS Map 
- Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking
Brownsea Island Open Street Map 
- Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking
Explore the Area with Google Street View 
Pubs/Cafes
Near the ferry there's a cafe with a good choice of meals and snacks. It has a nice garden area with sea views where you can relax on a warm day.
Dog Walking
Dogs are not allowed on the island as its a nature reserve with a lot of wildlife. You can take dogs on the ferries though and enjoy views of the island from there.
Photos
A peacock displays to a visitor on Brownsea Island.
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Brownsea Castle was purchased by Mary Bonham-Christie in 1927. She allowed the property to fall into disrepair and by the time of her death in 1961 it was in a very poor condition. It was then purchased by the National Trust and leased to the John Lewis Partnership, who restored it over many years. In the 21st century it is still used by the Partnership as a corporate hotel for their employees and retired staff.
The photo is of St Mary's Church, the only church present on the small island. The photo depicts the south west side and south side of the church. The church is the current religious home to the Scouting movement and serves the few residents of the island as well as the Brownsea Island Scout camp. It was created by William Waugh in Gothic style. The church is an example of 18th century Gothic Revival architecture. Inside the church there is a monument to Waugh, as well as the tomb of the late owner of the island, Lady Bonham-Christie. There is a separate monument to Baden-Powell and his wife. The flags of the Scout movement line either side of the main Altar.
The buildings of Brownsea Island seen from the Poole to Brownsea ferry as it arrives at the jetty. The building in the background is Brownsea Castle. Taken by Adrian Pingstone in September 2002 and released to the public domain.
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Brownsea Island red squirrel
Brownsea Cottages
The old village deserted village of Maryland where you can still see lots of old pottery and the outline of the village.
