Why do conservation work on Lundy?
The Field Society has been offering Conservation Breaks to Lundy since 1984. The work undertaken is vital to the welfare of the island and encouraged by the Landmark Trust who assist in these activities by providing free accommodation to those who go there to do such work. Effective conservation not only safeguards sensitive environments but can also help to enrich them. In addition, visitors to Lundy benefit greatly from the maintenance carried out by these dedicated conservationists. We are not the only organisation to do this kind of work. Other groups with an interest in conservation on Lundy also co-ordinate such parties. Overall, the combined efforts of these organisations and the Field Society amount to hundreds of man-hours of conservation work.
What do we do?
The work undertaken is a mixture of tasks that support Lundy's warden in protecting the ecology and natural beauty of Lundy. Some of the work revolves around the continuing eradication of the island's rhododendrons, to prevent them regrowing following clearance. Other work includes the more familiar blend of drystone walling, path maintenance, culvert clearance and a host of diverse conservation projects vital to preserving the distinctive environment that Lundy enjoys.
What should I expect?
You will need to make your own way to the departure port and will be expected to pay for your food etc. whilst on Lundy - usually about £70.00. Working hours are 8:30am to 4:30pm, starting on the day after your arrival and ending the day before your departure. There will be a day off mid-week to allow you time to explore and enjoy Lundy. We recommend that you bring some hardwearing clothes and sturdy boots.
The tasks are challenging but not without reward - ask anybody who has participated in a previous Conservation Break! A reasonable level of fitness is required to tackle the expected tasks, which may include activities such as:
- Walking relatively long distances over uneven terrain
- Walking through deep vegetation, sometimes on steep uneven ground
- Working in various weather conditions,
- Gardening type activities such as lifting, digging and carrying.
- This list is not exclusive.
Accommodation is provided free of charge by the Landmark Trust. The Lundy Field Society will pay your boat fare and, if necessary, any helicopter supplement in the event of a cancelled sailing. For planned helicopter journeys outside of the sailing season, participants are expected to pay a contribution towards the extra cost of this means of transport to and from the island. This is currently £30 per flight, but is subject to revision if helicopter fares increase.
How do I get on a Conservation Break?
Each year there is a choice of a number of Conservation Breaks - the dates of which are shown below. If you wish to join us please contact the This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for an application form. Return the form as soon as possible with a non-refundable £50 deposit. This deposit will be sent to your Conservation Break leader to go towards your food bill. If you cancel your place, the deposit will be treated as a donation to the Society, but If you cancel within 72 hours of departure we will ask you to pay the costs of transportation which we are not able to recover at short notice. If we need to cancel your deposit will be refunded or can be carried forward to a subsequent Conservation Break. There is an additional charge of £100 for those who are not members of the Society. Helicopter supplements will be collected around a month prior to the departure date.
It is advisable to book as early as possible as the Conservation Breaks are often very popular.
Are there age limits?
Regrettably, we are unable to accept children under the age of eighteen on Conservation Breaks.
When is the next one?
Sat 26 September to Sat 3 October 2026
Up to 14 places in the Barn, Ship both ways. Booking code 2026-C. All places filled.
Sat 10 October to Sat 17 October 2026
Up to 14 places in The Barn. Ship both ways. Booking code 2026-D. All places filled.
Sat 3 April to Sat 10 April 2027
Up to 14 places in The Barn. Ship both ways. Booking code 2027-A. All places filled.
What is the accommodation?
The Barn has a bunkhouse-style sleeping arrangement in two rooms with bedding and towels provided. Numbers will be limited by the accommodation available and places will be allocated on a first come first served basis. Depending on the numbers of male and female attendees it may not be possible to guarantee single-sex dormitories.
How can I book?
If you would like to book a place on one of the breaks, please in the first instance, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to check on the latest availability. If there are spaces you will be requested to then send an application form, a link to which will be provided.
For all enquiries contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.)
