Discover the natural beauty of Brownsea Island
Brownsea Island opens for Spring on the 14th March
As spring makes a welcome return, Brownsea Island is preparing to open its doors to visitors for another season of unforgettable days out.
The island opens again on Saturday 14 March 2026, with accessibility improvements, regular guided walks and familyfriendly events.
Just a short boat trip from Poole, traffic-free Brownsea Island feels a world away from the busy mainland. Woodland paths weave through the trees, red squirrels dart across the woodland floor, and the stunning views across Poole Harbour never fail to impress.
Where to catch the ferry?
Catch the ferry at Poole Quay (buy tickets from the Orange Greenslade Ferry Kiosk). The ferry opens on the 14th March to 2nd November and takes around 20 minutes. There is an hourly service until 4pm
Greater accessibility to Brownsea
This year, the island offers greater accessibility, helping more people enjoy everything it has to offer.
A brandnew, allterrain Tramper wheelchair is available for hire, with wider tyres, a powerful battery and a sturdy design, hiring a Tramper makes it easier for visitors with limited mobility to explore further afield and experience more of the island’s picturesque trails.
The National Trust offers a wheelchairfriendly alternative to the regular ferry, the Seahorse boat. This vessel is designed to make travelling to and from the island easier for visitors with limited mobility. This year, the number of bookable crossings has doubled, giving even more people the chance to plan a trip that suits their needs.
To find out more about how to hire equipment or book the Seahorse visit the Accessible Brownsea section on the National Trust Brownsea island website.
Wild birds
Migrating birds like Sandwich and common terns return to their island breeding grounds, filling the air with their distinctive calls.
Visitors can take a perch and watch the birds in one of the hides dotted around the lagoon or from The Lookout wildlife observatory, which was an exciting new addition to the island last year.
Wildlife and Nature to spot
Red Squirrels
As the days get warmer, the island’s red squirrels become more active, gathering food to feed their first litters. They tend to have between three to four babies, which are called kittens and are usually born in March. The adult squirrels can often be seen up in the treetops and scampering across the woodland floor behind the church, which is a real highlight for many visitors.
Spring flowers
Spring flowers can be found on Brownsea, even though the island has no formal gardens except within the private castle grounds.
In the 1920s large amounts of daffodils were grown here and sold to Covent Garden flower market. You can still see the trenches where they were planted in the aptly named Daffodil Field and to this day they continue to put on a cheerful display, with their bright yellow blooms creating a wonderful spring spectacle.
Events at Brownsea Island
The National Trust team run a wide variety of events and guided walks throughout the season. The walks are ideal for visitors who want to discover a little bit more about the island.
History walks at Brownsea Island
Among the most popular are the history walks which explore Brownsea’s fascinating past, from defensive structures built during Henry VIII’s reign to the islands industrial period and the links to the Scouting movement.
These interesting tours finish with a cream tea inside Brownsea Castle, giving visitors a rare opportunity to explore the castle, which is usually closed to the public.
Wild wetland bird walk
Nature lovers can join a regular wild wetland bird walk, which are led by knowledgeable wildlife guides. These walks offer a closer look at the large number of birds that gather on the lagoon, this is a great spot to watch waders and wildfowl. Kingfishers are regularly spotted here, and occasionally white-tailed eagles make an appearance.
Find the dates here for the Wild Wetland Walks at Brownsea Island
Natural play and adventure trails
Brownsea is a place where children can roam, explore and have fun outdoors.
The island’s natural play area features a redsquirrelthemed agility course and a dedicated spot for den building, giving families plenty of space to play, relax and enjoy the fresh air.
This spring, an Easter adventure trail will run from 28 March to 12 April. Inspired by the island’s birdlife, the trail leads young explorers through a series of fun games and handson activities designed to help them notice and appreciate the nature around them.
Villano Café
After exploring the island, the Villano café is a great place to refuel with a light lunch, freshly baked scone, or a slice of cake, washed down with a choice of hot or cold drinks.
The café garden is situated in a lovely spot with views across to Sandbanks, Shell Bay and the Purbeck Hills. If you prefer a picnic, there are plenty of benches and peaceful picnic spots dotted around the island.
The perfect time to visit Brownsea...
Whether you’re discovering Brownsea for the first time or returning to your favourite place, visitors will find a warm welcome on Brownsea, and this spring might just be the perfect time to visit. Brownsea Island.
Plan your visit to Brownsea Island today and take advantage of these wonderful events and activities.
There’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Visit the website to find out more:
