Pergins Island facts for kids

Pergins Island is a small, empty island in Holes Bay. Holes Bay is a part of Poole Harbour in Dorset, on the south coast of England. People cannot visit this island.
Where is Pergins Island?
Pergins Island is located in the northern part of Holes Bay. It sits north of the railway line, which crosses the bay. The island is shaped like an oval. It covers about 6.2 hectares, which is like 15 acres. The island is covered with many different types of trees. These include broadleaf trees, mixed trees, and yew trees.
The Story of Pergins Island
For many years, Pergins Island was known as 'Doughty's Island'. This name came from Sir Edward Doughty. He bought a nearby house called Upton House in 1828. The island was part of his large property.
Local stories say that Sir Edward Doughty was a very religious man. He allowed families from Poole and Hamworthy to use the island for camping. These families lived in crowded, unhealthy homes in the towns. During the warmer summer months, mothers would take their children to the island. They would camp there to escape the poor living conditions. Fathers would visit their families when they could.
Today, Pergins Island belongs to the Poole Borough Council. It is still part of the Upton Estate.