Skomer Island: A Must-Visit Wildlife Wonderland from Hungerford Farm
Just off the stunning Pembrokeshire coast lies one of the UK’s most extraordinary wildlife destinations — Skomer Island. Perfect for a day trip during your stay at Hungerford Farm, this island is a true nature-lover’s paradise, known especially for its spectacular puffin colonies and dramatic coastal scenery.
🌊 What Makes Skomer Special?
Skomer Island is a nature reserve and marine wildlife hotspot lying less than a mile offshore in St Bride’s Bay. This uninhabited island is managed for conservation and offers a unique opportunity to see abundant seabirds and marine life in their natural habitat.
The waters around Skomer are part of the Skomer Marine Conservation Zone, supporting rich underwater communities and offering excellent wildlife watching above and below the surface.
🐧 Puffins, Shearwaters and More: Incredible Wildlife Encounters
One of the island’s biggest draws is its wildlife. Skomer is home to thousands of Atlantic puffins, making it one of the best places in Britain to see these charismatic birds up close.
During the spring and early summer months — especially from April to July — puffins arrive to nest and raise their young. Mid-June to mid-July is often the peak time to see them flying, burrow-nesting and returning with sand eels for their chicks.
It’s not just puffins you’ll see — Skomer also hosts huge colonies of Manx shearwaters, guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes and other seabirds, along with the possibility of spotting grey seals and porpoises from the boat or shoreline.
🚤 How to Visit Skomer Island
The most popular way to experience Skomer is by boat trip from Martin’s Haven on the Pembrokeshire coast.
You can choose from:
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Landing Trips – A short 15-minute crossing brings you to the island for a day of exploring on foot, often with around 4–5 hours ashore to follow marked paths, enjoy the wildlife and breathtaking views.
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Cruises Around the Island – If staying on the island isn’t your thing or tickets are sold out, scenic cruises circumnavigating Skomer give you remarkable views of seabird colonies and marine life from the water.
Boat trips typically operate from spring through summer, and advance booking is highly recommended — especially in puffin season, as spaces can sell out quickly.
📸 Top Tips for Your Skomer Adventure
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Best Time to Visit: The puffin season runs from April to late July, with the most activity in June and early July.
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Be Prepared: Bring sturdy walking shoes, sun protection and a picnic — there are no shops or cafes on the island.
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Respect the Wildlife: Stick to designated paths and keep a respectful distance from the birds and their nests.
🌄 A Day You’ll Never Forget
Whether you’re a keen wildlife enthusiast, family with children, or simply love the sea and stunning landscapes, Skomer Island is a highlight of any Pembrokeshire adventure. Just a short scenic boat ride from the mainland, it’s one of those places that stays in your memory long after you return to Hungerford Farm.
