Ever thought of leaving the busy mainland for a peaceful island? Welcome to Lundy, a hidden treasure 12 miles off North Devon’s coast. This small island, only 3 miles long and half a mile wide, is full of natural beauty and unique experiences. It’s a place that will leave a mark on you.
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Lundy Island is perfect for wildlife watching, diving, exploring historic sites, and scenic walks. It’s an escape like no other. So, what makes it so special? Why should you consider visiting? Let’s discover the best things to do on Lundy Island and why it’s a must-see destination.
Key Takeaways
- Lundy Island is a stunning National Trust site located 12 miles off the coast of North Devon.
- Despite its small size, the island is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including Soay sheep, wild goats, Lundy ponies, and a variety of seabirds.
- Lundy Island is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering excellent diving, climbing, and hiking opportunities.
- Visitors can explore historic landmarks, such as the Marisco Castle and the Old Light lookout, and engage in unique activities like letterboxing.
- The island’s tranquil charm is enhanced by the absence of cars, televisions, and street lights, making it the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Exploring the Captivating Lundy Island
Lundy Island is a National Trust gem in the Bristol Channel, off North Devon’s coast. It’s a small, peaceful island, just 5km long and 1.72 square miles big. It’s perfect for those wanting to get back to nature and leave daily life behind.
A National Trust Gem in the Bristol Channel
This island is special, being Britain’s first marine protected area. It’s home to puffins, Manx shearwaters, guillemots, rabbits, sika deer, and more. The island has beautiful coastal paths, unique plants and animals, and a rich history and culture to explore.
Lundy’s Tranquil Charm: No Cars, TV, or Street Lights
Lundy Island is peaceful, with no cars, TVs, or street lights. This makes it a serene place to visit. The island has only 28 people, including a warden, an island manager, and a farmer. This adds to its isolated feel, making it a unique Lundy Island Experience.
Whether you’re Exploring Lundy Island for its Lundy Island Highlights or looking for a Lundy Island Adventure, it’s an unforgettable place.
“Lundy Island is a true gem, offering a rare chance to experience tranquility and untouched beauty. It’s a place to unwind and reconnect with nature.”
Unravelling Lundy’s Intriguing History
Lundy Island has a rich history full of intrigue and changing fortunes. The Marisco family first settled here around 1150. They clashed with the monarchy but kept control until 1242.
Later, the island was home to adventurers, smugglers, and lighthouse keepers. In the 19th century, William Hudson Heaven, a wealthy businessman, brought stability. He aimed to make Lundy a peaceful place.
In 1969, the National Trust bought Lundy, seeing its value in nature and history. Now, a small team looks after the island. They offer tours and activities, letting visitors explore the Lundy Island Past and Lundy Island History.
| Key Events in Lundy’s Marisco Family Lundy History | Year |
|---|---|
| Marisco family establish control of the island | c.1150 |
| Marisco family lose control of the island | 1242 |
| William Hudson Heaven purchases the island | 19th century |
| National Trust acquires Lundy | 1969 |
“Lundy’s history is as captivating as the island itself, revealing a fascinating tapestry of power struggles, intrigue, and resilience over the centuries.”
Getting to Lundy Island
Getting to Lundy Island is an exciting journey. Visitors can choose between the MS Oldenburg ferry or a helicopter, depending on the season. This National Trust gem is a must-see.
The MS Oldenburg Ferry Service
The MS Oldenburg ferry operates from March to October. It leaves from Ilfracombe and Bideford, up to four times a week. The trip takes about 2 hours, offering beautiful coastal views.
A return ticket for adults costs £89, while children under 16 pay £47. It’s a great way to start your island adventure.
Helicopter Transfers in Winter
When the ferry stops running, a helicopter takes over in winter. This 7-minute flight from Hartland Point is quick and direct. Adults pay £158, children £87, and infants £22.
Choosing between the ferry or helicopter adds to the adventure. Plan your trip to this car-free island for peace and nature.
Wildlife Watching on Lundy Island
Lundy Island is a gem, just 12 miles off North Devon’s coast. It’s a paradise for those who love wildlife. You can get there by ferry or helicopter in winter. The island is full of creatures to explore.
Seabirds, Seals, Ponies, and More
Walking along Lundy’s cliffs, you’ll see thousands of seabirds. Look out for puffins, Manx shearwaters, and more. These birds have thrived here since the Seabird Recovery Project started in 2002.
At the Northern Lighthouse, you might see Atlantic grey seals. They love to sunbathe on the rocks.
The island is also home to Sika deer, Soay sheep, and Lundy ponies. These animals roam freely, adding to the island’s beauty.
| Wildlife Highlights on Lundy Island | Estimated Numbers |
|---|---|
| Seabirds (including puffins and Manx shearwaters) | Over 21,000 |
| Atlantic grey seals | More than 200 breeding |
| Wild ponies, Sika deer, and Soay sheep | Unknown exact figures |
Lundy Island is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. It’s full of diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes. Whether you’re watching seabirds or spotting animals, your visit will be unforgettable.
Diving and Snorkelling Adventures
Lundy Island is a top spot for diving and snorkelling in the Bristol Channel. Its clear, rich waters are home to a wide variety of marine life. This makes it a leading place for exploring the UK’s marine world. The area around Lundy was the first Marine Nature Reserve in the UK, highlighting its importance.
When you dive in, you’ll see many fascinating sea creatures. You might see seals or colourful anemones. Divers can check out shipwrecks too, including five types of British cup-coral.
If you’d rather stay dry, the island’s wardens run snorkelling sessions in summer. You can swim with the island’s marine life easily. Lundy Island is perfect for all snorkelling levels because of its calm, shallow waters.
“The diving around Lundy Island is simply breathtaking. The clear, nutrient-rich waters and diverse array of marine life make it a must-visit destination for any serious diver.”
Whether diving or snorkelling, Lundy Island will amaze you. Get ready to be captivated by its Lundy Island Diving, Lundy Island Snorkelling, and rich Lundy Island Marine Life.
Lundy, England: Best Things to Do – Top Picks
Climbing, Hiking, and Letterboxing
Lundy Island is a hidden treasure in the Bristol Channel, perfect for those who love the outdoors. It’s great for climbers, hikers, and anyone who loves a good treasure hunt. There’s something here for everyone.
Climbers will find paradise on Lundy Island. It boasts hundreds of cliffs, including the famous Devil’s Slide. This 117-metre climb is thrilling for experienced climbers and a great place for beginners to learn.
Walking trails here cater to all levels of fitness. You can see seabirds and seals on the Lundy Island Wildlife Walk. Or, take the Lundy Island Coast Path for stunning views of the cliffs.
For a unique adventure, try letterboxing on Lundy Island. There are 27 wooden boxes with special stamps to find. It’s like a treasure hunt, following clues to discover these hidden boxes.
| Activity | Highlights | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|
| Climbing | The Devil’s Slide (117m multi-pitch) | Intermediate to Advanced |
| Hiking | Lundy Island Wildlife Walk, Lundy Island Coast Path | Easy to Moderate |
| Letterboxing | 27 hidden wooden boxes with unique stamps | Beginner to Intermediate |
“Lundy Island is a true haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of activities that cater to adventurers of all skill levels. Whether you’re scaling the iconic cliffs, exploring the picturesque trails, or embarking on a captivating letterboxing quest, this island promises an unforgettable experience.”
Reaching New Heights at the Old Lighthouse
The Old Lighthouse on Lundy Island is the highest spot on the island. It offers amazing Lundy Island Views from the top. You can climb 147 steps to the lantern room for stunning views of the whole island.
Once you’re up, you can relax in deckchairs and watch the Lundy Island Sunset. The sky turns into a canvas of colours. It’s a perfect place to enjoy the island’s beauty and feel the wild nature of the Lundy Island Lighthouse.
- Over the last 12 months, Lundy received a total of 20,000 visitors who made the journey to the island.
- Lundy’s annual turnover is approximately £2 million, showcasing the economic activity on the island.
- Lundy’s community is composed of 27 individuals who call the island home and find employment there.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Visitors over the last 12 months | 20,000 |
| Annual turnover | £2 million |
| Resident population | 27 individuals |
The Old Lighthouse on Lundy Island is a special place. It lets visitors see amazing views and enjoy the island’s beauty. If you want to see the beautiful Lundy Island Sunset, this is the place to go.
Exploring the Lundy Island Coast Path
Embark on the Lundy Island Coast Path to discover the island’s wonders. This trail takes you along the dramatic Lundy Island Cliffs. It lets you dive into the stunning Lundy Island Landscape.
The Lundy Island Coast Path leads to hidden coves, rocky outcrops, and diverse wildlife. You can tackle the whole path or just parts of it. Either way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views and a closer bond with Lundy’s nature.
- See the Lundy Island Cliffs that drop steeply to the sea. Look out for The Pyramid, The Cheeses, Needle Rock, and Devil’s Chimney.
- Explore the Lundy Island Landscape with its old quarries, workers’ cottages, and a memorial to a local hero from World War II.
- Meet the iconic puffins as you walk along the Lundy Island Coastal Walks.
The Lundy Island Coast Path is a unique way to see the island’s beauty and history. It’s perfect for hikers and nature lovers alike. This trail will leave a lasting impact on you.
| Lundy Island Coastal Walks | Distance | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Lighthouse to Quarry Beach | 2 miles | 1 hour |
| Quarry Beach to Old Light | 2.5 miles | 1.5 hours |
| Old Light to Rocket Pole | 3 miles | 2 hours |
Discover Lundy Island’s varied landscapes and history on its scenic coastal walks. Whether you want a gentle stroll or a challenging hike, the Lundy Island Coast Path is unforgettable.
Refuelling at the Marisco Tavern
The Marisco Tavern is at the heart of Lundy Island’s lively community. It’s the island’s only pub and a key spot for socialising. Since the 1860s, it has been offering tasty food and drinks to visitors. The pub is open all day, so you can always find a place to relax and meet other adventurers.
The Marisco Tavern stands out because it stays open when the island goes dark. Even when the generators turn off, the pub lights up, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. It’s the ideal spot to share stories and dive into the island’s history and culture.
Looking for a good meal, a cold drink, or just a place to chill? The Marisco Tavern has it all. They serve a variety of dishes using local and seasonal ingredients. Vegetarian options are also available. After a day of exploring, come here to feel the island’s spirit.
| Lundy Island Dining Highlights | Lundy Island Pub Offerings |
|---|---|
|
|
Ready to refuel and join in Lundy Island’s lively social scene? Visit the Marisco Tavern, the island’s famous pub and a centre of activity.
Planning Your Lundy Island Adventure
Are you ready to explore Lundy Island? Start by staying in a cosy cottage in North Devon’s countryside. These cottages are perfect for your trip, offering easy access to Ilfracombe and Bideford ferry terminals.
Staying in North Devon Cottages
North Devon’s cottages are not just a place to stay. They let you enjoy the beautiful views of Lundy Island from the South West Coast Path. This path is great for walkers, showing off the stunning Devon coast with Lundy Island in sight.
When planning your trip to Lundy Island, think about these things:
- Accessibility: North Devon cottages are close to ferry terminals, making your island trip easy.
- Accommodation: These cottages are comfy and charming, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
- Outdoor Exploration: Paths like the South West Coast Path let you see Lundy Island and enjoy the beautiful coast.
Choosing a North Devon cottage means you can enjoy Lundy Island’s peaceful beauty. You also get the comfort of a home away from home.
| Island | Size | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Lundy Island, England | 3 miles long, 0.5 miles wide | No cars, TV, or street lights, tranquil charm, home to seabirds, seals, and ponies |
| Ramsey Island, Wales | 2 miles long, 1 mile wide | Fourth-largest island in Wales, rich in wildlife, including seals and seabirds |
| Rathlin Island, Northern Ireland | 6 miles long, 1 mile wide | Accessible by a 25-35 minute ferry ride, breeding ground for thousands of puffins |
Conclusion
Lundy Island is a captivating place that offers a unique island experience. It has a rich history, diverse wildlife, and lots of outdoor activities. The island is perfect for anyone, whether you’re there for a day or a week.
The Lundy Island Conclusion shows how special this island is. It’s full of natural beauty, interesting history, and adventure. If you’re looking for a unique getaway, Lundy is a must-see.
Start planning your trip to Lundy Island now. You can hike along the stunning coast or see the island’s wildlife. This island is a true gem in the British Isles, waiting for you to explore its tranquility and history.
FAQ
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