A BRAND-new glamping experience is being offered within the idyllic setting of Brownsea Island for this summer.

The introduction of the island campsite’s new bell tents will enable visitors to enjoy the island in a more immersive way with views overlooking the harbour.

Campers can catch the ferry from Poole over to the island and head up to the campsite on foot, or even sail or kayak straight to the south shore of the island.

Facilities at the campsite itself include hot showers, toilets and some equipment. Campers will need to bring their own food, but cooking equipment is provided.

Bell tent on south shore of Brownsea Island. Picture: National Trust/Robin Kitchin

Paul Norris, National Trust’s holiday operations manager for Dorset and Wiltshire, said: “It’s great to see traditional bell tents at this campsite. As the birthplace for Scouting and Guiding, it’s fitting to see the elegant canvas peaks dotted about the landscape, against a backdrop of pink and purple heather.

“It’s still a simple offer chiming with our back-to-basics ethos, but with a beautiful bell tent, double bed, linen and kit for cooking with, we like to think this is camping-in-comfort.”

The campsite is located where the first experimental Scout camp was set up more than 100 years ago by Lord Baden-Powell.

Olivia Gruitt, Brownsea Island’s visitor operations and experience manager, added: “My favourite time of the day is dawn, when the birds start to sing and stretch out their wings. I love sitting on the beach with a cup of tea as the sun rises and watching the Island come alive.

View from a bell tent on Brownsea Island. Picture: National Trust/Anna Padmore

“It’s a feeling that few get to experience which makes it even more special.”

A traditional pre-pitched, furnished 5m bell tent can sleep up to four. Two people in a double bed (all bedding and linen provided), while others are on futon-style beds (bring your own bedding).  Prices start from £100 per night for a two-person bell tent.

Adventure camping prices start from £25 per night, tree tents prices start from £60 per night. Prices do not include ferry.

Visit nationaltrust.org.uk/brownsea-island or call 07929 734508 for more information.

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