Lundy Island

Key Facts

• Location: Devon (north coast)
• Size: 450 hectares
• Terrain: Easy footpath; slightly rugged at north tip
• Access: Boat trip from Ilfracombe
• Height gain: 600 metres
• Map: OS Explorer 139
• Starting point: Landing beach
• Accommodation/food:

  Lundy Island accommodation offers a full range of self-catering options in many of the historic buildings, as well as a campsite. Hot and cold food is available at the Marisco Tavern and the Island Stores sells snacks and groceries.

• Island Summary:

  Walking the coast path around Lundy Island is a great way to see the best of its wildlife – puffins, migrating birds, the Lundy Cabbage, and the mischievous seals –  as well as most of the historic buildings and sights. The views from the whole route are incredible, stretching to Wales on one side and the coast of Devon on the other. It is possible to visit Lundy and walk the coast path in a day trip from Ilfracombe.

• Look out for:
  • Famous Lundy puffins between April and July
  • Exploring smugglers caves and subterranean passages
  • Sampling the local brew at the legendary Marisco Tavern
  • Scrambling onto Rat Island
• Route description:

  The coast path around Lundy island starts from the landing beach. The circular walk quickly leaves the masses behind to head north up the ruggedly beautiful east coast to the seal colony at Gannets Rock. On reaching the northern tip the whole of the island, an expanse of grassland and heath, can then be seen to the south. Walking along the western coast, with its rock features that take the full force of the Atlantic, the puffins can be viewed (in season) and Battery Point is a great place to explore more of the island’s history. The walk along the island’s south coast passes the remains of the castle and then heads into ‘town’ for some well earned refreshments. (Download the full and free route on the LHS)

• Getting there:

  Sail on the MS Oldenberg from Bideford or Ilfracombe four days a week, end of March to end October. Helicopters only in winter time.