Lundy Island rises approximately 400 feet out of the Bristol Channel about 11 miles off Hartland Point on the North Devon coast (UK - Lat: 51° 10' N; Long: 4° 40' W). It is basically a granite outcrop about three miles long and half a mile wide. Whilst the top of Lundy is reasonably flat, it has very steep sides. The west side of the island is exposed to the Atlantic Ocean and has considerably less vegetation than the more sheltered east side which faces the mainland.

The Island is owned by the National Trust and is financed, administered and maintained by The Landmark Trust. The Landmark Trust is a charity which acquires and restores buildings and places of historic and architectural interest and makes them available for short term lets.

There are about 20 permanent staff on the island. They work the farm, run the tavern, the self catering properties and all the other facilities. There are over 20 buildings that can be rented by holiday-makers.

Visitors to the island normally arrive by ship . The island's own supply ship, the MS Oldenburg, departs from Bideford or Illfracombe regularly throughout the year; the 25 mile trip taking a little over two hours.

The main centre of activity on the island, especially in the evenings, is the Marisco Tavern. Up to a few years ago beer was brewed on the island but it is now 'imported' from the mainland.

Lundy is very popular for various groups of people including birdwatchers, climbers, divers and radio amateurs . Groups of bell ringers regularly come over to ring the bells of St. Helena's church which have recently been fully restored.

Lundy is famous for its birds, especially the Puffin, although in recent times their numbers have been reducing. In July 1998 there were believed to be only about 60 Puffins on the island (I saw two !). The name Lund-ey is Norse for Puffin Island. 

For pictures of Lundy Island go to the Photo Galleries.

Click here for a large scale map of Lundy.

For details of travel to and accommodation on Lundy, please go to the official Lundy Island web site or contact: The Landmark Trust, Shottesbrooke, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 3SW.

Tel: +44 628 825 925