Poole Quay (Ferries for Brownsea Island)

Poole Quay is your jumping-off point for Brownsea Island, the only way to reach this National Trust gem sitting in the middle of Poole Harbour. Ferries run regularly from around mid-March through October, with the crossing taking just a few minutes across the water. It's a bit informal — expect roughly one ferry per hour and a loosely organised queue, so arrive with some patience and enjoy the harbour buzz while you wait.