The Lookout - a stunning new wildlife observatory on Brownsea Island

The Lookout - a stunning new wildlife observatory on Brownsea Island

Onform Architecture

Construction work has started on The Lookout, a building commissioned by Dorset Wildlife Trust which will become the first destination for visitors to Brownsea Island

It has been designed to give an introduction to the Island's diverse wildlife and habitats, with an elevated viewing platform which will provide spectacular views of the wetland habitats of the Lagoon and the many birds which nest and feed there.

The Lookout is part of Dorset Wildlife Trust’s Wild Brownsea project which has been developed in partnership with the National Trust. The project is part funded by the National Heritage Lottery Fund with contributions from the National Trust, the Fine Foundation, and Dorset Wildlife Trust members and supporters. The Wild Brownsea project aims to improve access and encourage more visitors to learn about, enjoy and help to conserve the island's natural heritage and delivering The Lookout is an important part of that project to enhance the visitor experience.

Our vision for The Lookout was put on hold by the pandemic so it is very exciting to now see our plans finally coming to fruition. As part of the Wild Brownsea project to help people engage with nature and all that Brownsea has to offer, The Lookout will give visitors a unique opportunity to see the internationally important numbers of wild birds of Brownsea's lagoon without in any way disturbing them. We are very much looking forward to seeing The Lookout built over the next few months and to giving visitors a warm welcome.
Brian Bleese, Chief Executive
Dorset Wildlife Trust
We’re thrilled to be supporting Dorset Wildlife Trust and in particular The Lookout project. Working in partnership we can totally transform the welcome we extend to our visitors and provide a wonderful opportunity for them to get closer to nature.
Olivia Gruitt
National Trust

The Lookout will be opening in 2024. Brownsea Island is open to the public this year every day until the end of September and partially open during October - plan your visit to Brownsea.