Brownsea Castle

Brownsea Castle is a fascinating historical monument built by Henry VIII between 1545 and 1547 as a fortification to protect the port of Poole from French attacks.

This single-story, square blockhouse with a hexagonal platform for cannons on the seaward side was converted into a private residence in 1726.

Today the castle is managed by the John Lewis Partnership, and although the castle itself is not open to the public, the surrounding Brownsea Island offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, including the famous red squirrels.