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Discover Skomer Island

Just off the Pembrokeshire coast lies Skomer Island, a truly special place known for its rugged beauty and incredible wildlife. A short boat trip from Martin’s Haven brings you to this protected island, managed as a nature reserve and home to thousands of seabirds, seals, and wildflowers.

A Glimpse into Skomer Island

Skomer’s history is just as fascinating as its landscapes. Evidence of human life on the island dates back thousands of years, with Iron Age settlements and ancient field systems still visible today.

In more recent history, the island was farmed up until the early 20th century, before being left to nature. Today, it is carefully protected and managed, allowing wildlife to thrive in one of the UK’s most important island reserves.

Visitors can choose between landing trips, where you step onto the island and explore on foot, or boat trips around the island, offering a chance to take in the dramatic cliffs and spot wildlife from the water. Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or simply cruising its coastline, Skomer is an unforgettable Pembrokeshire experience.

Wildlife on Skomer Island

Skomer is a paradise for wildlife lovers. The island is internationally recognised for its seabird populations, with species such as razorbills, guillemots, and Manx shearwaters calling it home.

Grey seals can often be spotted along the shoreline, especially in late summer and autumn, while the surrounding waters are rich in marine life. Throughout spring and summer, the island also comes alive with colourful wildflowers, creating a striking contrast against the coastal cliffs.

Skomer’s Most Famous Residents

Perhaps the biggest draw to Skomer Island is its puffin population. Each year, typically from April to July, thousands of puffins return to the island to breed, making it one of the best places in the UK to see them up close.

With their colourful beaks and comical personalities, puffins are a favourite for visitors and photographers alike. Watching them gather along the cliffs and bob on the water is a truly special experience, and one that makes a visit to Skomer unforgettable.

Top Tips for Visiting

Book early, landing trips, especially during puffin season, sell out quickly

 

Visit in late spring or early summer for the best wildlife experience

 

Pack a picnic, there are no shops or cafés on the island

 

Wear sturdy footwear for uneven paths and cliff-top walks

 

Check the weather, boat trips are weather-dependent

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