Days Out - Number 50

Brownsea Island

Take a boat trip to Brownsea island from Sandbanks, and it will feel like a different world. Over the years the island has been used as a costal station, Victorian pottery, Edwardian country estate, daffodil farm, even a decoy to protect Poole in the second world war! Baden Powell’s scouting movement began with an experimental camp here in 1907.

But now you’ll find a peaceful wildlife haven, with superb woodland walks and spectacular views across to Studland and the Purbeck hills. Its one of the few places you’ll find the native red squirrel, and there are many sea birds to observe.

Catch Route 1 to Poole Quay  or the 50/52 to Sandbanks for the boat  ride.