Whether you live in, or are just visiting North Devon, a day trip to Lundy makes for an unforgettable experience.
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Although only three miles in length, and half-a-mile wide, the Island offers an amazingly diverse range of things to do for day-trippers. Its 4,000 years of human history comes to life through the 42 scheduled monuments and its clutch of listed buildings. Because of its isolation the habitat for wildlife is often compared to that of Galapagos. This is all set against a backdrop of stunning natural rugged beauty, making it a walker’s paradise.
Most day visitors travel on Lundy’s own ferry and supply ship, the graceful German-built MS Oldenburg, which is an experience in its own right. Built in 1958 the vessel retains many of her original brass and wooden fittings providing comfortable heated saloons, a bar, buffet, a gift shop and an information desk. In fine weather there is plenty of space on deck, and if you are lucky you may be treated to the company of a playful pod of dolphins who often delight in following the ship.
The ships sails at least three times a week from either Bideford or Ilfracombe and the crossing takes about 2 hours each way, allowing between 4 and 6 hours to explore the island depending on the day you choose to travel.
It’s unlikely that you’ll be able to do justice to everything in a single visit and often it’s the weather that’ll make your decision for you. If the wind’s Easterly, go West and vice-versa. And if it’s pouring with rain, well there’s plenty to see and do in and around the Tavern.