Black-tailed godwit at Brownsea Island — Black-tailed godwit | © National Trust Images/Rob Coleman

Dorset

Brownsea Island wildlife walk

There is plenty of wildlife and history to observe on this walk, which cuts through mixed broadleaf and pine woodland at the centre of the island. Catch a glimpse of a rare red squirrel or discover traces of Brownsea's once industrial past.

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Total steps: 6

Start point

Path next to church

Step 1

Start the walk from the path to the right of the church and walk in the opposite direction from the quay.

Step 2

Carry straight along this path. In spring and autumn, this is one of the best places to see red squirrels as they feed on sweet chestnut and beech tree nuts.

Red squirrels

Red squirrels must gain over 10% of their body weight to survive the winter. They're best seen in autumn when foraging for nuts. They can tell if a nut is rotten by its weight. Pine trees are particularly important for red squirrels and you'll often see chewed pine cones on the woodland floor. There are no grey squirrels on Brownsea even though they're usually better adapted to survive in this type of woodland than red squirrels. There are more than 60 types of tree to be seen, including oak, beech, holly and ash.

Red squirrel on Brownsea Island, Dorset — Look up for a better chance of spotting a red squirrel on Brownsea Island | © National Trust Images / John Millar

Step 3

Pass the Vinery and turn left at the Whispering seat, then continue through ideal red squirrel territory, with mature Scots pine trees on your left.

Goldcrest nest at Brownsea Island, Dorset | © National Trust

Step 4

Pass the lily pond and at the top of the hill take the next path on your left signposted to the Visitor Centre and quay.

Woodland management

There are over 100 tree species on Brownsea, most planted since the 1700s by a succession of owners. Brownsea has mixed woodland comprising mainly pine and native hardwood trees such as oak, beech, rowan and hazel. There is still some rhododendron here, as in other parts of the island, although we are working to eradicate them as they have a very negative effect on the island environment, including preventing young trees from establishing. The pine woodland here is regenerating and a succession of different aged trees are required to ensure a continuing supply of pine nuts: an important food source for the squirrels.

Pine trees in woodland with the sun shining through, on Brownsea Island, Dorset — Sun shining through pine trees on Brownsea Island | © National Trust Images / Chris Lacey

Step 5

Follow the path and on your right you will see what remains of the daffodil plantation which was established in the early 20th century by the Van Raaltes, who were the owners at the time.

Daffodils in the garden at East Riddlesden Hall — Daffodil fields in spring | © Ellen Glover

Step 6

At the farm buildings turn left, which brings you onto Church Field and back to where you started.

A peacock walking in the woods at Brownsea Island in Poole Harbour, Dorset — Peacock taking a walk through the woods | © National Trust Images / Rob Coleman

End point

End: Path next to church, grid ref: SZ022876

Trail map

Map of Brownsea Island wildlife walk | © National Trust

Pink heather with trees in the background and blue sky above.

Trail

Brownsea lakes and heath walk

This gentle walk passes through some of the most beautiful and varied habitats on Brownsea, including heathland and woodland – perfect for wildlife watching and photography.

Poole Harbour, Poole, Dorset, BH13 7EE

01202707744

brownseaisland@nationaltrust.org.uk

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Eating and shopping on Brownsea Island

Fuel up for your adventure at the Villano Café, where you'll find a wide variety of hot and cold drinks, snacks and light meals. Elsewhere, shop for a Brownsea Island souvenir at the Trading Post and browse our second-hand bookshop.

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Brownsea Island wildlife walk

Total steps: 6