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Description
The ferry to Lundy Island (see separate entry) leaves from the port of Ilfracombe. Birders heading to the Island should check out the coastline and harbour area before/after embarking as this area is not heavily watched. Capstone Hill is the main seawatching point of the town. Onshore winds from the North West, North and North East can force seabirds and pelagic species closer to land here.
Details
Access
The A361 from Barnstaple further South leads directly into the town, on passing Holy Trinity Parish Church (on the left), take a left turn into Wilder Road, this road leads to Jubilee Gardens (on the left), where you will see the Landmark Theatre (like three upturned cones), just after this turn left into Esplanade Road where there is a car park (fee payable) that overlooks the sea. You can walk on good footpaths to check the cliffs/Capstone Hill and harbour from here.
Terrain and Habitat
Grassland , Scattered trees and bushes , Sea , City/village , Beach , Canyon/cliffConditions
Hilly , Flat , Rocky , Open landscape , High water possibleCircular trail
YesIs a telescope useful?
YesGood birding season
All year roundBest time to visit
Autumn migration , Spring migration , Summer , Winter , Spring , AutumnRoute
Paved road , Wide path , Narrow trailDifficulty walking trail
Average walkAccessible by
Foot , Bicycle , CarBirdwatching hide / platform
NoExtra info
BE SURE to check the garden areas on cliff behind esplanade car park for migrant passerines during Spring/Autumn migration. During high winds you can get some shelter on West or East side of Capstone Parade depending on wind direction, on still days climb to the top of Capstone Hill for elevated views out to sea. Ilfracombe gets VERY BUSY during the summer season, so a early morning visit is best during this time.