26 Mar Discover Lundy Island: A Secluded Haven

One place we always recommend to visitors for a day trip during a stay at North Devon Resort is Lundy Island, a tranquil oasis just off the North Devon Coast. In the beautiful blue waters of the Bristol Channel, Lundy Island is a haven for wildlife and a perfect place for nature lovers. 

England’s First Marine Conservation Area 

Lundy Island was designated as England’s first Marine Conservation area in January 2010, and it was designated under the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009. This area is designed to help preserve important habitats and species. 

The waters around Lundy Island are home to a thriving population of Atlantic grey seals, and visitors often get to see these playful marine mammals up close. Harbour porpoises, bottlenose dolphins, and common dolphins are also regularly spotted in the area, as well as the occasional spotting of mink whales, long-finned pilot whales, basking sharks and leatherback sea turtles. 

Spectacular Scenery 

Lundy Island is a 400-foot granite outcrop with dramatic cliffs rising from the sea. It offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Devon coastline. The island is just three miles long from north to south and just over half a mile wide, with an area of around 1,100 acres. 

Magnificent Bird Species 

As an isolated island on major migration routes, Lundy has rich birdlife and is a popular site for birdwatching. Visitors can expect to see puffins, Manx shearwater, European storm petrel, black-legged kittiwake, razorbill, common guillemot, and more. 

Other than birds, there are distinct breeds of wild pony, the Lundy pony, Soay sheep, sika deer, feral goats, and rabbits. 

Historic Sites 

For such a small island, you’d be forgiven for thinking there wouldn’t be any historic sites, but Lundy has a rich and exciting history, frequently changing hands between the British crown and various usurpers. 

Four Celtic inscribed stones have been found in Beacon Hill Cemetery. Marisco Castle was built in around 1250 by King Henry III and was later rebuilt after being held for the Royalists by Thomas Bushell. The islands have also had a Christian presence since the 6th century, and St Helen’s Church is well worth a visit. It was built in the mid-1890s, although the first reference to a church on the site dates back to 1244. 

Planning Your Visit 

Visitors can reach Lundy Island by boat from Ilfracombe or Bideford. Boat trips operate seasonally, typically from spring to autumn and can get busy, so booking is recommended. 

Experience The Magic of Lundy Island 

A visit to Lundy Island is magical, with its pristine landscape, rich biodiversity, and tranquillity. With self-catering accommodation options at North Devon Resort, exploring this hidden gem has never been more convenient. 

Book your stay at North Devon Resort today and experience Lundy Island and learn more about what North Devon has to offer. From island adventures to coastal exploration, a getaway here promises to be one to remember. 

View our accommodation options and book online here, or call our team on 01271 623 130 or email reservations@northdevonresort.com.