Built in the 1850s as Brownsea Island’s vicarage, this characterful first-floor apartment combines comfortable, stylish accommodation with the distinctive heritage and period character of the historic Villa. Set within the island’s beautiful nature reserve, it provides a peaceful and memorable escape for families and friends. A haven for wildlife, Brownsea Island lies at the heart of Poole Harbour – the second-largest natural harbour in the world. Explore the bird hides, visit the wildlife observatory with elevated views overlooking the lagoon, or follow the network of peaceful woodland and wetland paths. With its varied habitats, abundant wildlife and fascinating heritage, Brownsea offers a truly special setting for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful and unique getaway.


Your journey begins at the jetty in Sandbanks, where the island boat service takes you across Poole Harbour to the island. From there, enjoy a picturesque walk to the Villa, passing through beautiful woodland and wetland landscapes. On entering this recently restored historic property, the Villa’s original main staircase leads to the grand first-floor entrance and the welcoming apartment beyond. Throughout your stay, you can enjoy the atmosphere of a building that has been an important part of Brownsea Island’s history for more than 170 years. With three spacious bedrooms, a generous living and dining room, a fully equipped kitchen, a walk-in shower and a roll-top bath, the apartment provides a comfortable base from which to experience the island’s remarkable wildlife and rich history.


On the ground floor, the Wildlife and Wetlands Centre provides an insight into the island’s unique habitats and the wildlife that calls Brownsea home. It also serves as a base for the dedicated volunteer team who help care for and manage this special nature reserve, offering a unique connection to the conservation work that protects the island.


A short boat trip takes you back to Sandbanks, with sandy beaches, cafes, bars and restaurants, although please note boat services are limited to set times during the day.

House Rules

Additional information and rules

No dogs allowed


- 3 bedrooms – 1 super-king-size (zip-and-link) twin on request ar time of booking, 1 king-size and 1 standard double

- 1 bathroom with roll-top bath, separate shower and WC

- 1 WC on the landing area outside the property for exclusive use for guests

- Electric oven and hob, fridge/freezer, microwave

- Smart TV in lounge

- Please note there is no shop to buy groceries on the island – please bring everything you will need

- Parking is located on the Sandbanks Peninsular where guests can collect a permit for free on-road parking

- The Villa is approximately a 10–15 minute walk from the boat landing point along gravel paths and wooden boardwalks. To make your arrival easier, luggage can be left in the designated area at the arrivals and will be delivered to the property.

- Please note: Access to Brownsea Island is via the island boat service, which operates at scheduled times during the day. This is booked before your stay and confirmed after the time of booking.

- Details of the boat service and arrival information will be provided after you have made your booking, directly by the owner, please be advised that the ferry to Brownsea Island on your arrival day is scheduled at 3.30pm

- Please note that there is a luggage allowance for the ferry, full details will be provided in your confirmation

- Guests must travel to and from the island using the island's boat service — private boats are not permitted for arrival, departure, or use during your stay

- The John Lewis Hotel is reserved exclusively for their guests


Additional information and rules

No dogs allowed


- 3 bedrooms – 1 super-king-size (zip-and-link) twin on request ar time of booking, 1 king-size and 1 standard double

- 1 bathroom with roll-top bath, separate shower and WC

- 1 WC on the landing area outside the property for exclusive use for guests

- Electric oven and hob, fridge/freezer, microwave

- Smart TV in lounge

- Please note there is no shop to buy groceries on the island – please bring everything you will need

- Parking is located on the Sandbanks Peninsular where guests can collect a permit for free on-road parking

- The Villa is approximately a 10–15 minute walk from the boat landing point along gravel paths and wooden boardwalks. To make your arrival easier, luggage can be left in the designated area at the arrivals and will be delivered to the property.

- Please note: Access to Brownsea Island is via the island boat service, which operates at scheduled times during the day. This is booked before your stay and confirmed after the time of booking.

- Details of the boat service and arrival information will be provided after you have made your booking, directly by the owner, please be advised that the ferry to Brownsea Island on your arrival day is scheduled at 3.30pm

- Please note that there is a luggage allowance for the ferry, full details will be provided in your confirmation

- Guests must travel to and from the island using the island's boat service — private boats are not permitted for arrival, departure, or use during your stay

- The John Lewis Hotel is reserved exclusively for their guests



Host Terms & Conditions

The Travel Chapter Limited, trading as “holidaycottages·co·uk”, acts as agent for the property owner. Therefore, when you make a booking the contract is between you and the owner. Please note our terms and conditions will also apply when you make a booking. These can be found in the footer of our website, holidaycottages·co·uk.

Full travel and key collection instructions will be emailed directly to you upon receipt of full payment.