Lundy

Lundy is an island three and a half miles long and half a mile wide and rises steeply from the Bristol Channel between England and Wales.

It is famous for its seabirds, including a few breeding pairs of the puffins which gave the island its name (Norse for Puffin Isle) but there is also a wealth of other animals and plants on the island and in the waters around it.

Previous inhabitants have also left remains of their presence, from prehistoric flintwork to Victorian quarries. The present inhabitants work for the Landmark Trust who manage the farm and holiday accommodation. Lundy is owned by the National Trust.

For the explorer there are spectacular walks around this magnificent island. There are many places to look out for that have mysterious names such as Needle's Eye, Rat Island, Shutter Point, Kittiwake Gully, Gannets Rock and many more.

A day trip to Lundy is also a cruise, a chance to enjoy the beautiful North Devon coastline. Lundy's own ship, the MS Oldenburg, carries 267 passengers, and provides a bar, buffet, shop and information centre. The shop sells many helpful guides and leaflets to help you explore the island. From either Ilfracombe or Bideford, the voyage takes about 2 hours.

The island has a turbulent history of piracy, smuggling and periods of peaceful habitation. During one of the peaceful periods, the rector was one Thomas Heaven and the island was known as the Kingdom of Heaven. There are small clues that give away the dramatic history that surrounds this tiny island. Many of the buildings such as the Old Lighthouse and even a 13th-century castle now provide accommodation for the welcome visitor. The central point to the whole island is the Marisco Tavern a warm friendly place with plenty of fine food and shelter.