Brownsea Island

Nestled in the scenic Poole Harbour, Brownsea Island, a National Trust site, offers an idyllic escape for families seeking adventure, wildlife, and a touch of history. With its lush woodlands, vibrant wetlands, and a chance to spot the elusive red squirrel, a day trip here promises not just fun but an enriching experience for both adults and kids!

Plus, it's the perfect family outing during the school holidays when you have a little more time!

Find the island just off of Poole Harbour where you can see all the way across to the Purbeck Hills. The area is full of history, like the hermit who made his home here way back in the Middle Ages. The big name though has to be the beloved Enid Blyton who found inspiration for her kid’s classic, the Whispering Wood right here.

Reaching Brownsea Island is an adventure in itself! Who doesn't love a boat ride? A short ferry trip from Poole or Sandbanks gives you and your family a dramatic view of the Dorset coastline and the harbour. The excitement of setting sail to an island adds an element of thrill for the kids right from the start.

Bushcraft taster sessions run every Friday during school holidays, along with a variety of activity trails throughout the May half term, summer holidays and October half term.