YHA Swanage
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Free parking on premises
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WiFi
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Cycle store
Brownsea Island
Overview
The perfect day’s adventure, this island wildlife sanctuary is easy to get to but feels like another world from the moment you step ashore.
The island sits in the middle of Poole Harbour, with dramatic views to the Purbeck Hills. Thriving natural habitats, including woodland, heathland and a lagoon, have created havens for wildlife, such as the red squirrel and a huge variety of birds.
The island is rich in history too, which is revealed in our Visitor Centre. There are the remains of daffodil farming, pottery works and the village of Maryland to explore, or head to the Outdoor Centre to find out more about the birthplace of the Scouting and Guiding movement.
Visit the National Trust website, or the Visit Dorset website, or the Dorset Wildlife Trust website
See the Scouting History website and the Scouts Fact Sheet details
What makes it special
- Family adventure
- Stunning views and interesting wildlife
- Visit the world famous First Camp site of Scouting
Opening Times
Limited by the boat service from Poole or Sandbanks (mid-March to autumn half-term)
See the Brownsea Island Ferries website, or the Greenslade Pleasure Boats website
Price
Adult - £7.50 (with Gift Aid £8.40)
Child - £3.75 (with Gift Aid £4.20)
Family - £18.75 (with Gift Aid £21.00)
(x1 adult and x3 children) - £11.25 (with Gift Aid £12.60)
Hostels nearby
YHA New Forest
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WiFi
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Free parking on premises
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Café
Other things to do nearby
Watersports in Swanage
In Poole Harbour you can try your hand at something less 'wet'...parasailing!
Studland Beach and Nature Reserve
One of the UK’s finest beaches and extensive nature reserve. Enid Blyton lived here, so look for Policeman Plod’s thatched cottage!
Arne Nature Reserve (RSPB)
A special landscape where you can enjoy the vast open heathland with an opportunity for bird watching. A fantastic place for family walks at any time of year. One of the few places in the UK where all...
Bournemouth
Serious shopping and entertainment centre. Tethered balloon flights, great beaches and top concerts throughout the year. Visit the Bournemouth website
Corfe Castle
Uncover the secrets of Dorset's iconic medieval monument and discover how royalty, warfare and nature have shaped the castle.
Swanage Steam Railway
Explore the beautiful countryside around Swanage on the old steam trains that chuff along to Corfe Castle and beyond. Visit the website
Mowlem Theatre
Opened in 1967, the Mowlem Theatre is situated on the sea front at Swanage and has over 200 film productions a year as well as 60-100 nights of live theatre.
Swanage
A friendly, colourful seaside town with an award winning beach, amazing chalk pillars of Old Harry's Rocks and a very English Victorian pier.
Walking and Rambling in Swanage
The whole of Purbeck area, a lot of which is An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is just waiting to be explored. Swanage is on the South West coast path that stretches from Poole harbour to...
Nordic social walk from YHA Swanage
Saturday 20th September 2025 Distance: 7 - 9 miles (12-15 km) Duration: 3 - 4 hours Led by: Steve Ellis, British Nordic Walking National Trainer Skills and confidence This circular walk on both...
Cycling in Swanage
Cycling is very popular in Dorset, thatched villages and quiet lanes make it easy to get off the beaten track and explore the tranquil terrain. Here the pace is leisurely and the going is easy. This...
Mountain Biking in Swanage
There are some great routes including Chalk Ridge between Corfe Castle and Old Harry Rocks, it's quite steep at first but suitable for all levels and there's stunning views on either side. Bike hire...
Monkey World
160 rescued and endangered apes and monkeys including chimps and orangutans. Talks throughout the day and Great Ape play area for kids. Visit the website
Go Ape Moors Valley
Nestled between the New Forest and the south coast beaches, Moors Valley Country Park is a picture-perfect location for an active day out near Bournemouth. With plenty of fun-filled outdoor activities...
The Tank Museum
Our exhibitions tell the story of armoured warfare from World War One to the present day. As you explore the Museum's six large halls you will come face to face with vehicles that have seen action in...
Liberty's Owl, Raptor and Reptile Centre
6 miles Home to a large collection of birds of prey and reptiles. Watch the birds flying free and reptiles up close during the spectacular displays. Visit the website