For every dad who ever read a Famous Five book and longed to give their kids a taste of the heroes’ carefree, adventures – here’s Brownsea Island in Dorset.

The National Trust-run island in Poole Harbour inspired the writer Enid Blyton’s tales of smugglers, and childish derring-do with its colourful history and unspoilt, natural charms.

A quick ferry ride takes you to a magical land where cars are banned, red squirrels run free through towering trees, and tiny bays are full of seabirds and true stories of real-life smugglers and World War II legends.

Any mum who fancies giving dad and kids a surprise treat for Father’s Day could try a special overnight camping stay, complete with campfire BBQs and sing-songs, to mark the day. Call 01202 492161 for prices, booking and more info.

To find out more about the island, take a look at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/brownsea

Baby-friendly Boltholes nearby:

Rose Cottage, nr Shaftesbury, Dorset http://www.babyfriendlyboltholes.co.uk/rose_cottage-child-friendly-accommodation-18895.htm

Dairy Cottage, Ibsley, New Forest http://www.babyfriendlyboltholes.co.uk/dairy_cottage-child-friendly-accommodation-18481.htm

The Cowshed, Blandford Forum, Dorset http://www.babyfriendlyboltholes.co.uk/the_cowshed-child-friendly-accommodation-25493.htm

Mulberry Barn, Lymington http://www.babyfriendlyboltholes.co.uk/mulberry_barn-child-friendly-accommodation-27043.htm#property_main

Tom’s Lane, Minstead, Hants http://www.babyfriendlyboltholes.co.uk/toms_lane_cottage-child-friendly-accommodation-18479.htm

Twin Cottage, Burley, New Forest http://www.babyfriendlyboltholes.co.uk/twin_cottage-child-friendly-accommodation-18477.htm

Robins’s Nest, Minstead, Hants http://www.babyfriendlyboltholes.co.uk/robins_nest-child-friendly-accommodation-18789.htm