BOURNEMOUTH is getting a new link to Brownsea Island with the launch of a regular ferry service.

For the first time Dorset Cruises will be running trips from Bournemouth Pier to the island every hour and a half, starting from Easter until the end of September.

The 30-minute ferry ride to the wildlife haven is in addition to the existing ferry services from Poole Quay and Sandbanks.

And there will be new day trip cruises running from Swanage pier.

"It's particularly good news to have these new routes," says Emma Stokes the visitor services manager for the National Trust on Brownsea Island.

"It means passengers who enjoy the wildlife-rich reserve because it is traffic free, can also use public transport to reach the ferry, and enjoy a completely car-free family day."

National Trust property Brownsea Island has reopened for the season.

Highlights of the island's recent starring role in the BBC's popular Autumnwatch programme will be showing in the visitor centre.

At Corfe Castle two years' work to protect the ruins from weather erosion has come to an end, and the scaffolding has finally been removed, so visitors will see it in all its glory.

One of Studland's historic beach huts has been converted to host a new exhibition about climate change and how it is affecting the isle of Purbeck. Visitors can rent one of the famous huts from this month too.

And Kingston Lacy house at Wimborne has reopened.

From April and throughout the summer the estate will also host a sculpture trail with pieces crafted by three local sculptors - Jo Burchell, Claire Trenchard and Phil French.