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Brownsea Castle, also known historically as Branksea Castle, was originally a Device Fort constructed by Henry VIII between 1545 and 1547 to protect Poole Harbour in Dorset, England, from the threat of French attack. Located on Brownsea Island, it comprised a stone blockhouse with a hexagonal gun platform.

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Brownsea Castle, also known historically as Branksea Castle, was originally a Device Fort constructed by Henry VIII between 1545 and 1547 to protect Poole Harbour in Dorset, England, from the threat of French attack. Located on Brownsea Island, it comprised a stone blockhouse with a hexagonal gun platform.

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Great place to visit, have a short hike and generally enjoy nature. At the time we went we didn't see any red squirells. We did see some peacocks and some ducks. All in all it's definitely worth visiting maybe see what's there to do on the island and prepare from before I'd say it can be worth camping for a night or two although we haven't. The castle is actually not accessible for general public on its majority since it is used as a hotel by John Lewis staff from what I was told by some locals down in Poole.

Yiannis ChristodoulouYiannis Christodoulou
00

This place belongs to John Lewis, so unless you work or know someone that does work for JL then you can't stay here. However the island itself is worth visiting, approx 3 mile circuit around the island will provide you with breathtaking views, red squirrels and other wildlife. There is also a bird watching nature reserve (not part of the 3 mile circuit) so allow extra time. National trust cafe and shop for refreshments and other goodies.

Gary DickinsonGary Dickinson
40

Exclusive use for JLP partners only. I stayed here for the first time for 2 nights on my own from 29/11. Fabulous full board food . So relaxing & tranquil. I walked around the island in approx 3 hours, seeing red squirrels & peacocks but not the deer. The staff were very accommodating. Had a good laugh chatting to a couple staying from Chester ( or was it Dover )?

Gary ReadGary Read
50

Stayed here for a week. Wonderful, relaxing stay. You can only stay here if you work for the John Lewis Partnership or have been invited as a guest. A real treat. Beautiful views, nature: squirrels, birds, well kept Italianate garden. The other part of the island is open to visitors of the National Trust where you can view nesting birds- worth it.

Vanessa Yuen-RobertsVanessa Yuen-Roberts
00

Brownsea is only open to partners who work for Waitrose and John Lewis . Its possible you could attend as a day guest but you would have to check. Its a beautiful place to stay with access to the national trust nature reserve. There is a private beach and grounds to enjoy.

Sue WarrSue Warr
10

We did not get into the Castle. Went around the island though and sat in the cafe. Took the shuttle ride and heard the history of the island from a tour guide. Learnt the Boys Scout started there too. It is well worth your day if you are a Nature enthusiast.

amara nnaji (#skillfulwriter)amara nnaji (#skillfulwriter)
00
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Overview

4.8(101 reviews)

Website

nationaltrust.org.uk

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Deep Dive

A deep dive into Brownsea Castle