Seals are a regular and much-loved sight in our corner of Poole Harbour . Visitors are often delighted to spot both of the UK’s native species — grey seals and common (harbour) seals — in this unique coastal environment. The UK is globally significant for seal populations, home to around a third of the world’s grey seals and approximately 30% of the European population of common seals. This makes Poole Harbour wildlife particularly special, offering a rare opportunity to

This winter has been a particularly important one for us.  The cottages that many of our guests know and love were originally built in the 1930s and 1940s as staff accommodation, and while they have served us faithfully for decades, time eventually catches up with every building. Over the past few years it became increasingly clear that the roofs had reached the end of their useful life, and that major work would soon be unavoidable. Replacing roofs on an island is never a sm

Staying on a private island in Poole Harbour feels a world away from the everyday, yet getting here couldn’t be easier. Our three self-catering cottages are open from Easter through to October and offer a rare combination of seclusion, comfort and flexible access – whether you arrive by our private launch or by your own boat. For guests who have a sailing boat or motor cruiser, our self-catering cottages with moorings offer something truly special. Subject to prior arrangemen

It’s one of the questions we’re asked most often, usually followed by “Do you ever get bored?” and “What happens if you run out of milk?” Life on a private island in Poole Harbour is certainly a little different, but it’s far less castaway and far more carefully organised than people imagine.   First things first: no, the island isn’t abandoned for half the year. Our wonderful caretakers live here all year round, keeping everything shipshape through winter storms and summer s

Staying on a private island is a little different from booking a traditional self-catering cottage – and that’s exactly what makes it so special. On Round Island, we’re often asked similar questions by guests before their stay, so we’ve gathered the most common ones here to help you plan your escape with confidence. How do we get to Round Island? Your holiday begins before you even arrive. On your day of arrival, we’ll meet you at  Lake Yard Marina in Poole , where you’ll be

One of the pleasures of staying on a private island is knowing that the practical details have been thoughtfully taken care of. At Round Island, we aim to make arrival and logistics as straightforward as possible, so you can start relaxing from the moment your holiday begins. Here’s everything you need to know about parking, arriving by boat, and bringing your own vessel. Car parking at Lake Yard Marina Your journey to Round Island begins at  Lake Yard Marina in Poole , and w

Interest in slow holidays in the UK are gaining momentum. They are about reconnecting with nature, with the people you are traveling with, and often, with ourselves.