Private Islands in Poole Harbour: How Many Are There?

Poole Harbour is famous for its spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife and rich maritime history, but one question we're often asked at Round Island is:

"How many private islands are there in Poole Harbour?"

The answer depends on what you classify as an island.

Poole Harbour is home to around ten named islands, ranging from large wooded islands to tiny tidal outcrops that disappear beneath the water at high tide. Of these, five are generally recognised as the principal islands: Brownsea Island, Furzey Island, Green Island, Long Island and Round Island.

Which Islands Are Privately Owned?

With the exception of Brownsea Island, which is owned by the National Trust and welcomes thousands of visitors each year, the other principal islands are all privately owned.

Each has its own unique story:

• Round Island – A privately owned island with a fascinating history, home to self-catering holiday cottages set within 15 acres of woodland and gardens. It is one of the very few private islands in Poole Harbour where guests can experience island life.

• Long Island – A privately owned island with no public access.

• Green Island – A privately owned island managed primarily for conservation and wildlife, with no public access.

• Furzey Island – Privately owned and forming part of the Wytch Farm Oil Field, the island has controlled access and is not open to the public.

  
  

Alongside these larger islands are several smaller islands and tidal features, including Gigger's Island, Drove Island, Pergins Island and Stone Island. Although small, they provide valuable habitats for birds and marine life, helping to make Poole Harbour one of the UK's most important natural environments.

Can You Visit the Private Islands?

For most of Poole Harbour's private islands, the answer is no.

Brownsea Island remains the only large island regularly open to day visitors, while Long Island, Green Island and Furzey Island are all closed to the public for reasons ranging from private ownership and conservation to industrial use.

Round Island is something of an exception. Guests staying in our self-catering cottages have the rare opportunity to experience life on a private island, surrounded by the beauty of Poole Harbour while enjoying a peaceful retreat that has remained largely unchanged for generations.

A Harbour Like No Other

What makes Poole Harbour so remarkable is the diversity of its islands. One welcomes thousands of visitors every year, another forms part of Europe's largest onshore oil field, others are protected havens for wildlife, and one offers the unique opportunity to stay on a private island in the heart of Dorset.

Together they tell the story of one of Britain's most fascinating natural harbours—where history, conservation, maritime heritage and private island life exist side by side.

If you've ever wondered what it's like to stay on one of Poole Harbour's private islands, explore the history, wildlife and accommodation here on Round Island. Through our blog, we share the stories, wildlife and heritage that make this remarkable island and its neighbours such a special part of Dorset.