North Devon Biosphere Reserve

The North Devon UNESCO Biosphere is one of the most important natural landscapes in the United Kingdom and a must-visit destination for anyone who loves wildlife, walking, photography and the great outdoors.

Covering more than 5,000 square kilometres of coast, countryside, rivers, estuaries, moorland and sea, the Biosphere is a globally recognised area where people and nature work together to create a sustainable future. Designated by UNESCO, it was the first Biosphere Reserve in the UK and remains one of the country's most remarkable places for wildlife and conservation.

Whether you're looking for spectacular coastal scenery, rare wildlife, peaceful nature reserves or outdoor adventures, the North Devon Biosphere offers an unforgettable experience in every season.

What is the North Devon UNESCO Biosphere?

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is an internationally recognised area where communities, businesses and conservation organisations work together to protect nature while supporting sustainable living and local economies. The North Devon UNESCO Biosphere was first designated in 1976 and is recognised globally for its diverse habitats, outstanding wildlife and innovative approach to conservation. The Biosphere covers much of North Devon and Torridge, stretching from Exmoor and Dartmoor's fringes to the Atlantic Ocean and including Lundy Island and its surrounding waters.

Discover a Landscape of Incredible Diversity

The North Devon Biosphere is home to an extraordinary variety of landscapes. Visitors can explore vast sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, rolling farmland, ancient woodlands, wildflower meadows, rivers, estuaries and marine habitats all within a relatively small area. The Biosphere encompasses the catchments of the Rivers Taw and Torridge, the internationally important Taw-Torridge Estuary, Braunton Burrows sand dune system, parts of Exmoor National Park and the waters surrounding Lundy Island. This remarkable diversity of habitats supports an abundance of wildlife found nowhere else in the UK.

Braunton Burrows: The Heart of the Biosphere

At the core of the Biosphere lies Braunton Burrows, the largest sand dune system in England and one of the most important dune ecosystems in Europe. This remarkable landscape is home to hundreds of plant species, rare orchids, insects and birds. Scientists from around the world study the dunes because of their unique ecology and importance for conservation. Visitors can enjoy guided walks, wildlife spotting and breathtaking views across the North Devon coastline.

Wildlife Watching in the North Devon Biosphere

The Biosphere is one of the best places in England to experience wildlife in its natural environment. The Taw and Torridge Estuary attracts thousands of migratory birds each year, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Depending on the season, visitors may spot curlews, oystercatchers, egrets, herons and a variety of wintering wildfowl.

Elsewhere within the Biosphere, wildlife enthusiasts may encounter otters, dormice, marsh fritillary butterflies, red deer, Exmoor ponies and grey seals. Offshore waters regularly host dolphins and porpoises, while Lundy Island is famous for its seabird colonies, including puffins during the breeding season.

Explore Lundy Island and Marine Wildlife

The Biosphere extends far beyond the coastline to include Lundy Island and over 2,300 square kilometres of protected marine environment.

Lundy is one of the UK's most important marine conservation areas and supports an incredible range of wildlife. The waters surrounding the island are home to seals, dolphins, porpoises and rare marine species, while beneath the surface divers can discover one of Britain's richest marine ecosystems. The island itself provides nesting sites for seabirds and offers spectacular walking routes with breathtaking views across the Bristol Channel.

Walking Through Nature

The South West Coast Path passes through some of the Biosphere's most spectacular scenery, taking walkers along dramatic cliffs, secluded coves and panoramic viewpoints. Inland, visitors can explore river valleys, woodland trails, estuary paths and nature reserves that reveal a quieter side of North Devon's landscape. Whether you're looking for a gentle riverside stroll or a challenging coastal hike, the Biosphere provides routes suitable for every ability.

Birdwatching in the Biosphere

North Devon is recognised as one of the UK's premier birdwatching destinations. The estuaries, wetlands, dunes and coastal habitats support a remarkable variety of bird species throughout the year. The Taw-Torridge Estuary is particularly important as a feeding and resting site for migratory birds travelling along international flyways. Popular birdwatching locations include Braunton Burrows, Northam Burrows, the Taw-Torridge Estuary, Isley Marsh and the coastline around Hartland and Exmoor.

Nature and Wellbeing

Studies increasingly show the benefits of spending time outdoors, and the Biosphere's diverse landscapes provide ideal settings for walking, cycling, wildlife watching, photography, mindfulness and outdoor recreation. From peaceful woodland walks to dramatic coastal viewpoints, the natural environment offers countless opportunities to relax and recharge.

Sustainable Tourism and Conservation

One of the key aims of the North Devon Biosphere is to demonstrate how people and nature can thrive together. Visitors are encouraged to explore responsibly, support local businesses and help protect the landscapes and wildlife that make the region so special. Conservation projects throughout the Biosphere focus on habitat restoration, wildlife recovery, climate resilience and sustainable tourism, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy this extraordinary environment.