The Lookout on Brownsea Island

The Lookout is a new wildlife observatory and gateway to Brownsea Island.

The Lookout

Brownsea Island re-opens for the season on Sat 15 March and this year visitors will get to explore The Lookout, a new state-of-the-art wildlife observatory and gateway to the island. This impressive new facility provides panoramic views over the Lagoon, which is home to many different bird species that both nest and feed here.

The Lookout was commissioned as part of the Dorset Wildlife Trust, Wild Brownsea project and developed in partnership with the National Trust. The project was partially funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund with contributions from the National Trust, The Fine Foundation, as well as Dorset Wildlife Trust members and supporters.

The Lookout has replaced an old, dilapidated lagoon hide, the new building has a larger footprint, which necessitated the removal of three other deteriorating buildings managed by the Dorset Wildlife Trust. This building is nestled amongst trees and is designed to age gracefully into the natural surroundings.

Inside The Lookout visitors will find informative and educational interpretation panels that provide information about the island's wildlife. A large map offers detailed information about the best spots to explore.

Some of the interpretation inside The Lookout. | © National Trust Images/ James Dobson

Accessibility at The Lookout

The route to The Lookout begins at the courtyard, where a gravel path outside Reception leads to a wooden boardwalk with two passing spaces. The final approach to The Lookout has a gradual incline, culminating in a terraced area at the top of the boardwalk which provides ample space to manoeuvre a wheelchair.

The main entrance has wide double automatic doors that open outward, with a 'press to open' button located on the left-handside. Inside, the building there is a smooth wooden floor and it is well-lit along with plenty of natural light.

To exit, visitors can use another set of double automatic doors, followed by two sets of steps. Alternatively, wheelchair users can exit through the entrance doors back onto the boardwalk, where a return exit ramp leads to the main path.