AS the countdown to the reopening of Brownsea Island continues, here’s everything you need to know about the historic Dorset tourist spot ahead of this season.
When does it open?
Visitors will be able to return to Brownsea Island from March 19 to October 30, with tickets available to pre-book now along with allowances for same day/walk in tickets.
How can I ge there?
If you're planning a trip, you'll need to catch a foot ferry which will run every day from Poole Quay only. As reported, the Sandbanks service to the island is “suspended until further notice”.
You can now purchase a single ticket which combines the ferry fare and island admission. If you are a National Trust member, you will only need to pay for the ferry but must bring your membership card with you.
The crossing takes approximately 20 minutes and visitors only need to book an outbound ferry with there being availability to catch any returning ferry off the island.
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Walk-in visitors will need to pay on the day, and tickets will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis. The island admission and ferry fare is free of charge for under-fives, but you are still required to book a space for them so operators can count them as passengers on board.
Dogs are not permitted on the island except for assistance dogs which must be clearly identifiable.
What can you do on Brownsea Island when you get there?
Whether you fancy a long walk down guided trails, a museum visit or a cuppa, the island has numerous facilities for the whole family to enjoy.
The Visitor Centre is home to Brownsea’s conservation stories and The Engine Room is the place to explore the island’s history.
Free family trails and daily guided walks are all available, while the Villano Café serves hot and cold food with indoor and outdoor seating.
Unfortunately, the island shop has closed, but people can visit the Trading Post – based at the Outdoor Centre for Scouting and Guiding – to pick up a Brownsea souvenir.
Camping enthusiasts are also catered for with the Outdoor Centre campsite open from April 1 to September 30. The bunkhouse, meanwhile, is open year round and holiday cottages are also available.
Most of the countryside areas are open, although some areas may be cordoned off this year while essential conservation works take place.
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There will also be several Easter egg hunts for youngsters from April 9 to 24.
In spring, the island buzzes with wildlife activity. There is a population of more than 200 red squirrels on the island who depend on the woodland to provide up to 80 per cent of their food in order to survive.
Birdwatchers are rarely let down when visiting the island which is a haven for woodland birds such as the blackbird, robin, chaffinch, chiffchaff and wren. Brownsea Lagoon, managed by Dorset Wildlife Trust, plays a key role in providing protection for overwintering as well as summer-nesting birds.
What is the history of Brownsea Island?
With just over 1.5 miles west to east and nearly one mile north to south, Brownsea has a vast history.
It is thought there has been human activity on Brownsea since 1000BC. A 33ft logboat was recovered just off the island in 1964 and carbon-dated.
In the late 9th century a hermit from Cerne Abbey is thought to have lived on the island. It belonged to the monks until Henry VIII seized it under the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 1530s.
He built the first Brownsea Castle and stationed a garrison there.
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Over time, the island has been bought and owned by several individuals and groups. In 1726 Brownsea was bought for £300 by William Benson, sometimes known as 'Mad' Benson. He rebuilt the castle as a residence, planted trees, and preserved hundreds of rare plants on the island.
Local MP Sir Humphrey Sturt took over in the 1770s, two more MPs followed as owners, then the van Raalte family. The Dorset Wildlife Trust has run the nature reserve since 1962 and the island is still memorialised as the birthplace of today’s Scout Movement.
A statue of Scout founder Robert Baden-Powell sits proudly on Poole Quay looking out towards to island.
Does anyone live there?
Nobody lives on Brownsea Island, but it annually welcomes well over 100,000 people.
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