Wealthy in wildlife and steeped in historical past, Flat Holm is a uniquely wild Welsh marvel, located 5 miles off the coast of Cardiff.
Accessed by boat, the gorgeous island is a distinct world with a wealth of heritage to discover and wildlife to see and listen to. This hidden gem could be small, however you’ll be amazed by how a lot there’s to find – it gives the right journey for any island lover.
HISTORY AND HERITAGE
For the reason that Darkish Ages, Flat Holm has acted as a retreat for monks and a sanctuary for Vikings, Anglo-Saxons, silver miners and smugglers.
Fortified in Victorian instances and once more in World Warfare II, it’s maybe most well-known for enjoying host to pioneering wi-fi radio experiments in 1897.
WELSH ICON
Due to frequent shipwrecks, a lighthouse was constructed on the island, which was changed by a Trinity Home construction in 1737. In 1988, it grew to become absolutely automated and the keepers had been withdrawn; then in 1997, the sunshine was modernised and transformed to solar energy. The lighthouse has now turn into a treasured Welsh landmark that’s typically photographed.
WONDERFUL WILDLIFE
The island has a major breeding colony of over 2,000 pairs of lesser black-backed gulls, 400 pairs of herring gulls, two pairs of nice black-backed gulls and ranging numbers of frequent shelduck and Eurasian oystercatchers. It is usually dwelling to slowworms with uncommon blue markings, and also you’ll see rabbits and wild sheep grazing.
HOW TO GET THERE
A day go to by boat (bookable from April) gives you with as much as three hours on the island. Two boat operators journey to Flat Holm: for an thrilling, high-octane journey, Bay Island Voyages’ quick RIBs match the invoice; whereas Cardiff Cruises supply a extra leisurely journey, enabling you to take a seat again, chill out and take within the surroundings. Passengers get to expertise locking out of Cardiff Bay Barrage, earlier than embarking on the brief journey on the Severn Estuary.
TOURS AND FACILITIES
Upon arrival on the island, you’ll be greeted by an enthusiastic warden and volunteers. You should purchase a self-guided tour pack so you’ll be able to discover at your personal tempo, or go on a free, entertaining accompanied tour, led by the skilled group who dwell and work there.
After the tour, guests can chill out and take in the tranquil environment and spectacular views, and revel in a drink at The Gull and Leek, Wales’ most southerly pub. The small reward store gives a possibility to purchase postcards, snacks, and a spread of souvenirs as a memento of your island expertise.
MAKE A NIGHT OF IT
For these with an urge for food for much more journey, why not prolong your go to with an in a single day keep? You’ll be able to camp within the paddock that overlooks West Seaside and the ocean, prepare dinner over a campfire, watch the serene sundown, drift off to sleep to the sound of waves breaking on the pebble seashore, and get up to contemporary sea air. Dormitory-style lodging is on the market within the farmhouse for guests desirous to spend high quality time with family and friends, in addition to a self-contained, absolutely furnished cottage for smaller teams.
ISLAND EXPERIENCES
The choices don’t finish there – as a part of the Nationwide Lottery Heritage Fund’s funding in Flat Holm, extra tempting journeys can be found. From inspirational pictures weekends and inventive writing classes, to stress-free yoga and meditation retreats and in a single day household enjoyable stays, there will probably be an thrilling vary of actions with one thing for everybody through the spring and summer time months.
FURTHER DETAILS
Flat Holm’s customer season begins in April. For the newest updates, comply with the island on Fb, Instagram and Twitter; and head to flatholmisland.com
