2026 Bideford Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in September)

Imagine stepping onto an island where puffins outnumber your expectations. Far from the noise of the mainland, Lundy rises from the Bristol Channel like a wild Atlantic secret—dramatic cliffs, sea spray, and thousands of seabirds calling the island home. Known as “Puffin Island,” Lundy is one of the UK’s most memorable wildlife escapes. And the puffins are the stars. Day One: Meet the Puffins The journey to Lundy is part of the adventure. As the island appears on the horizon, its cliffs emerge from the sea, signalling that you are leaving ordinary Britain behind. Once ashore, explore the island’s rugged paths and head towards the cliffs where puffins can often be spotted during the breeding season. Their colourful bills, curious expressions, and quick, slightly awkward movements make them impossible to ignore. Bring binoculars—and patience. The reward can be a close encounter with these remarkable seabirds as they land, nest, and disappear into the cliffs. Day Two: Cliffs, Colonies, and Wild Atlantic Views Spend the day exploring Lundy’s coastline, where sheer granite cliffs meet powerful Atlantic water. The island is home to an extraordinary variety of wildlife, but puffins remain the main attraction. Watch them flying low over the water, gathering near nesting sites, or standing at the cliff edge with that unmistakable colourful bill. There is something special about seeing them here. No cages, no crowds, no glass between you and the wildlife—just the sound of wings, waves, and wind. Take time to explore the island’s historic landmarks too, from the castle to the old lighthouse, but keep your eyes on the cliffs. You never quite know when a puffin will appear. Day Three: One Last Look Wake to the island’s silence and take one final walk along the cliffs. The beauty of Lundy is that nothing feels staged. The landscape is rugged, the weather can change quickly, and the wildlife follows its own schedule. That unpredictability is part of the experience. Before heading back across the channel, pause and look toward the cliffs one last time. If you are lucky, you may see puffins lifting from the rocks and disappearing over the Atlantic. Lundy is more than a day trip. It is a chance to step into a wilder version of Britain—where cliffs replace crowds and puffins become the reason you came. Come for the puffins. Stay for the island. Leave with a story you will want to tell. #travel2026#travel#couplestrip#staycation#thingstodo#seascapes#familytravel#myitinerary#citydaytours#afternoonteatime

Last autumn on arrival in Lundy my group and I were given a guided tour of the Southern end of Lundy Island. The church of St Helen’s has been a notable feature of the Lundy skyline since 1897, but the history of Christianity on the island dates back as early as the 6th century. Location It is situated in a prominent location on the island, offering exceptional views of the Bristol Channel. The church is considered a central part of island life, serving as a place for education, events, and worship. I thoroughly recommend a trip to Lundy. Great destination for those interested in maritime history, wildlife watching or a unique outdoor experience. For me I see it as a monastic and spiritual retreat. l hope to go back in the future #church #staycation #wildlife #spiritual retreat 🙏

Lundy Island can be reached by ferry from Ilfracombe or Bideford. A day trip allows you to explore the island for about three hours. Not long enough to walk the full circuit of the island. Rugged unspoilt beauty Lundy is a haven for wildlife and is rich in maritime history. There is accommodation on the island and or you can camp so may consider these options on my next visit. I managed to find time to grab a pint in the Marisco Tavern. An adventure on your doorstep 😄

## Escape to Lundy: Your Secret Island Adventure Awaits! · *Forget the ordinary. Step into a wild, windswept paradise just off the North Devon coast!** Lundy Island isn't just a destination; it's an experience straight from a storybook. · *Imagine this:** ☀️ **Cruising the Bristol Channel** aboard the iconic MS Oldenburg from Bideford, salt spray in your hair, anticipation building. 🦜 **Landing in a haven for wildlife:** Watch **puffins** bob on turquoise waves, spot seals basking on rugged rocks, and hear the cries of thousands of seabirds soaring over dramatic cliffs. 🚶♀️ **Wandering timeless trails:** Explore ancient granite quarries, mysterious shipwrecks, a historic lighthouse, and the charming village – all **car-free**, all captivating. 🌊 **Breathing pure Atlantic air:** Feel the stress melt away amidst heather-clad hills, hidden coves, and starry skies untouched by light pollution. 🍔 **Cosying up in the Marisco Tavern:** Refuel with hearty pub grub, local ales, and tales from fellow adventurers – the island's warm, beating heart. · *Lundy is more than an island. It's a digital detox, a wildlife wonderland, and a step back in time. It’s North Devon’s ultimate hidden gem.** · *Ready for your escape?** ⛴️ **Sail from Bideford on the Oldenburg!** Book your crossing to paradise now. · -- · *#lundyisland** **#northdevonshiddengem** **#wildlifewatching** **#puffinparadise** **#islandescape** **#carfreetravel** **#digitaldetox** **#devonadventures** **#offthebeatenpath** **#oldenburgvoyage** **#bidefordtolundy** **#ukhiddengems** **#explorebritain** **#slowtravel** **#coastalwalks** **#seabirdsanctuary**

It's simple poached egg crumpet with hollandaise sauce,but cooked specially by my husband on my day off. 😋