Discover the Incredible Nature and Wildlife of North Devon

North Devon is one of the UK's most spectacular destinations for nature lovers. Home to dramatic coastlines, expansive countryside, ancient woodlands, rugged moorland and internationally recognised conservation areas, the region offers endless opportunities to connect with the natural world.

Whether you're hoping to spot seals along the coast, watch puffins on Lundy Island, explore the landscapes of Exmoor National Park or enjoy peaceful walks through the North Devon Biosphere Reserve, there is wildlife and natural beauty around every corner.

Explore the North Devon Biosphere Reserve

North Devon is home to the UK's first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a globally recognised area where people and nature work together sustainably.

Covering more than 2,200 square kilometres, the North Devon Biosphere includes Braunton Burrows, the Taw and Torridge Estuary, Lundy Island, Exmoor National Park and miles of stunning coastline and countryside.

The Biosphere is home to a remarkable variety of habitats including sand dunes, wetlands, rivers, woodlands, farmland and marine environments. Visitors can enjoy walking, cycling, birdwatching, kayaking and wildlife photography while discovering some of England's richest natural landscapes.

Visit Lundy Island and Discover Puffins, Seals and Seabirds

Situated 12 miles off the North Devon coast, Lundy Island is one of Britain's most important wildlife destinations.

Known as the "Kingdom of Puffins", Lundy attracts thousands of visitors each year hoping to spot these charismatic seabirds during the breeding season between spring and summer. Puffins are often seen gathering along the island's cliffs and grassy slopes.

Lundy is also home to large colonies of grey seals, which can often be spotted resting on rocks or swimming in the surrounding waters. Birdwatchers regularly encounter guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes, fulmars and peregrine falcons.

The island's clear waters are designated a Marine Conservation Zone, making Lundy one of the UK's best locations for marine wildlife and underwater exploration.

Discover Wildlife in Exmoor National Park

Exmoor National Park extends into North Devon and offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes in England.

The park is famous for its rolling moorland, ancient woodlands, steep-sided valleys and dramatic coastline. It is also home to a wide variety of wildlife.

One of Exmoor's most iconic residents is the Exmoor pony, a rare native breed that has roamed the moors for thousands of years. Visitors may also spot red deer, Britain's largest native land mammal, particularly during autumn when the spectacular deer rut takes place.

Birdlife is equally impressive, with buzzards, kestrels, ravens and peregrine falcons frequently seen soaring above the landscape.

Spot Seals Along the North Devon Coast

The North Devon coast provides some of the best opportunities in England to see grey seals in the wild.

Popular locations include the cliffs around Morte Point, Baggy Point, Bull Point and the waters surrounding Lundy Island. Boat trips from Ilfracombe regularly offer wildlife-watching excursions where visitors can observe seals in their natural habitat.

With a little patience, it is often possible to spot seals bobbing in the water, sunbathing on rocks or curiously observing walkers from offshore.

Discover Coastal Nature and Spectacular Walking Routes

One of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of North Devon is by exploring its spectacular coastline. Stretching along the South West Coast Path, the area offers some of the most scenic walks in the UK, taking in dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, wildflower-covered headlands and breathtaking sea views.

Popular routes include Morte Point and Woolacombe, Baggy Point near Croyde, the Valley of Rocks near Lynton, the rugged Hartland Peninsula and the stunning North Devon Heritage Coast around Clovelly. Along the way, walkers are often rewarded with sightings of local wildlife, while spring and summer bring colourful displays of wildflowers and autumn and winter attract a variety of migrating birds.

Enjoy Birdwatching Across North Devon

North Devon is also a paradise for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. The Taw and Torridge Estuary attracts thousands of migratory birds each year, while Braunton Burrows, one of the largest sand dune systems in the UK, provides a habitat for many rare species.

Depending on the season, visitors may spot puffins, oystercatchers, curlews, egrets, herons, peregrine falcons, guillemots, razorbills and kittiwakes. Many coastal viewpoints, nature reserves and wildlife-rich landscapes offer excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife watching throughout the year.

Ways to Experience Nature in North Devon

Whether you choose to walk the South West Coast Path, explore Exmoor National Park, take a boat trip to Lundy Island, cycle through the countryside, kayak along rivers and estuaries, go horse riding across the moors or enjoy stargazing in Exmoor's internationally recognised Dark Sky Reserve, there are countless ways to connect with nature in North Devon.

From the protected landscapes of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and the rugged beauty of Exmoor to the wildlife-rich waters around Lundy Island, North Devon is one of the UK's premier nature destinations. With opportunities to see puffins, seals, red deer, Exmoor ponies and an incredible variety of birdlife, it is the perfect place to discover some of Britain's most spectacular landscapes and wildlife.

Why North Devon is One of the UK's Best Nature Destinations

From the protected landscapes of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and the rugged beauty of Exmoor National Park to the wildlife-rich waters surrounding Lundy Island, North Devon is a destination where nature takes centre stage.