Puffin, Skomer by Richard Toller

Four of these – Skokholm, Ramsey, Grassholm, and Skomer – are nature reserves, and the fifth is home to a Trappist monastery, where monks of the Reformed Cistercian Order make their own perfume and chocolates amidst the spectacular scenery of Caldey Island.

These islands are a bird-lovers’ paradise, where half the world’s population of Manx shearwaters nest and breed, and some of the estimated 86,000 burrows on Skokholm alone have been made by puffins.

Stronghold of the Gannet

The tiny Grassholm Island is a stronghold of the gannet; 80,000 of these gull-like birds have made their home here, and although inaccessible to anyone on foot, a local boat will take you close enough to experience the sight – and sometimes overpowering smell – of these huge seabirds.

In the 1930s, naturalist and adventurer Ronald Lockley lived on Skokholm, and published a best-selling account of his and his wife’s experiences as sole occupants of this little patch of paradise.

His ‘Dream Island’ may be long forgotten by all but the most avid of his literary followers, but small numbers of visitors are still allowed onto the island to see the farmhouse he renovated with driftwood, and walk the paths and clifftops he knew and loved so well.

• While you’re in the area: Tintern Abbey near Chepstow is well worth a visit – a place that inspired both the poet William Wordsworth and painter J.M.W. Turner
• So too is St. David’s Head, where Iron Age farmers left behind traces of their presence for generations to see at Warrior’s Dyke; and Arthur’s Quoit, a huge slab of stone said to have been thrown by the legendary king from a nearby hill, and which today is held in place by a solitary, upright piece of rock.

Modern-day archeologists believe it to be the capstone of a burial chamber that may date back some 5,500 years.

• Chepstow Castle, founded by William the Conqueror’s contemporary William Fitzosbern within a year of the Battle of Hastings, incorporates the oldest surviving Norman fortification in the whole of Britain.

Perched high above the banks of the River Wye, Chepstow - now superbly-preseved, grade one listed ruins – was probably the very first stone castle in the country.

On Grassholm island, UK by Richard Toller

Nicki Williams is a content writer for on-line,outdoor retailers Gear-Zone, where you’ll find everything for a walking and hiking holiday from major brands including The North Face, Berghaus, Rab, Scarpa and Brasher

The post A Little Patch of Paradise – Pembrokeshire Islands are an Ornithologists’ Dream | UK appeared first on Europe Explored.

Seven Sisters Country Park, East Sussex, England / Photo by DAVID ILIFF License: CC-BY-SA 3.0

So I tend to book Sussex cottages for a week or two at different times of year. Get down there and check out the fields and hedgerows. I keep a journal showing what’s growing and what’s not, what insects and birds I see and which are conspicuously absent.

It’s a fascinating record of a changing countryside. Some years you get gluts of one species, other years you see others in more particular abundance. This year I’ve seen an astonishing number of Five Spot Burnet moths, the red dots on the black wings almost glowing in the sun.

Actually it’s been a pretty good summer for Sussex cottages so far. I know we’ve had a lot of wind and rain but when you think about it there’s been quite an amount of sunshine too. I distinctly remember spending two consecutive weekends on the Downs, shirtsleeves rolled up and my socks off, taking a breather with a bottle of beer and feeling very hot indeed.

I’ve seen quite a number of Gold Swift moths this year, which is surprising given their general decline. Though the hotter weekends in June may have prompted them to breed properly, which they haven’t been doing for a couple of years. When I go back to my Sussex cottages in August I’ll have to compare notes again against last year. Normally the Gold Swift flies in numbers in June and August, conceding with a pair of broods over the year – but as I say in recent years this has been a pattern much interrupted by the vagaries of wind and weather.

There have been a number of sightings of woodcock on Black down this year, with several being spotted during the month of June. It’s interesting to note as well that with some major council clearance of rhododendron, we should start seeing redstarts back in the area again in a couple of years.

I find it fascinating to watch the changing aspect of the county and the concomitant changes in the distribution of the birds and plants it supports. I wonder what will have changed next time I come back to my Sussex cottages.

The post A Nature Lover’s Dream – Staying in Cottages Sussex and Getting Back to a Simpler Way of Life appeared first on Europe Explored.

If you are planning a vacation to Northern Scotland, make sure to set aside some time during your stay to view the Duncansby Stacks. Let this serve as your guide to touring the area, finding nearby attractions and choosing the best accommodations.

History of Duncansby Stacks

Most British residents believe that the northernmost location in Britain is the coastal location known as John o’ Groats. John o’ Groats is a popular tourism destination and has been one for decades. However, it is wrongfully coined as the northernmost spot in Britain. In reality, the title belongs to Duncansby Head.

A view of Duncansby Stacks / BillC

Just off the coast from Duncansby Head lies several rock formations that jut out of the water and provide incredible views. The mystical atmosphere has led many to believe that this area is the basis for Mordor, the mythical land in Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien. Although it is not nearly as popular as John o’ Groats when it comes to visiting tourists, those in the know appreciate the Duncansby Stacks as the northernmost tip of the nation.

Travelling to the Area

There is no denying that this destination in Scotland is off the beaten track. Most visitors arrive by car to Duncansby Stacks. The journey from Edinburgh is nearly 300 miles, so keep in mind that you will almost certainly have some extensive travel coming from further south in England or even Wales. Although there are no direct trains, buses or flights that bring to Duncansby Stacks or the surrounding settlements, there is extensive public transport throughout much of the Scottish Highlands. International Visitors should fly into the Inverness Airport for the nearest location.

Visitor’s Information

In order to visit the Duncansby Stacks, you will first need to visit John o’ Groats. From there, a small road winds along the coast for just over a mile. You can drive or take the local bus until you arrive at Duncansby Head. From here a short walk is required to get a view of the stacks, and the path is clearly signposted the whole way. There is no admission fee associated with visiting Duncansby Stacks.

Nearby Attractions

There are a large number of attractions throughout the Scottish Highlands for visitors to explore. The Eilean Donan Castle is one of the most popular in the region and was featured in several feature films such as Highlander and The World is Not Enough. Other interesting attractions include hiking along famed paths like the West Highland Way or the Great Glen Way. Just a few miles from Duncansby Stacks is the Castle of Mey, a beautiful structure that was once home to the late Queen Mother. If you are looking for the attractions of a large city, the nearest option is Inverness. Here you will find the Inverness Castle, the Old High Church and the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery.

A view of Great Glen Way / Draco2008

Accommodation Options

Accommodations in the area around Duncansby Stacks are quite limited. There are just one or two small guesthouses within a mile or two, although there are a number more within driving distance. Some great holiday ideas for visiting this region include camping in the summer or finding villas to rent that offer privacy, exclusivity and surprisingly affordable prices outside of the busiest summer months.

View A Guide to Duncansby Stacks United Kingdom in a larger map

The post A Guide to Duncansby Stacks | United Kingdom appeared first on Europe Explored.

A nice photo of Giant’s Causeway / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Sean Lucas

History of Giant’s Causeway

Scientific study proves that the impressive formation known as Giant’s Causeway is a result of volcanic activity during the Paleogene period. Due to the large amount of volcanic activity in the region, the area had a lava plateau which eventually cooled and contracted. In the instances of rapid contraction, columns shot up from the ground. These columns are what make up the Giant’s Causeway.

Legends and Myths

Although today we know the scientific explanation for the creation of Giant’s Causeway, citizens and explorers of the past made up legends to explain the formation. The most popular of these legends is one involving the Irish warrior Fionn mac Cumhaill. The myth claims that he was set to battle his Scottish rival Benandonner. When the time came for them to fight, Fionn mac Cumhaill had fallen asleep. His wife covered him with a giant blanket as he slept and told Benandonner that it was their infant son. Upon seeing the size of the baby, Benandonner fled and ripped up the rocks in his escape. This is said to be what created Giant’s Causeway.

A classic view of a typical rock formation at the Giant’s Causeway / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by code poet

Visitor’s Information

For years the area has been without a visitor’s center, but in 2012 a center will be completed and feature exhibits about the formation of the Giant’s Causeway as well as some of the most popular legend surrounding it. Most people enjoy simply walking around the formation and taking pictures of the incredible landscape. There are some buses to the area but most visitors arrive by car as there is ample parking available. While there is no admission fee to tour the Giant’s Causeway, there is a parking fee of £6 per vehicle. Keep in mind that the attraction opens at dawn and closes promptly at sunset throughout the year.

Other Regional Attractions

The town nearest to Giant’s Causeway is Antrim. This town is full of historical landmarks, exciting attractions and plenty of culture. Head to the town’s shoreline of Lough Neagh in order to experience traditional Irish coastline. Although it is often too cold for swimming, there is still plenty of exciting recreation to be had there. Other popular attractions in the region include the Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge. This is a fun and exciting attraction costing £4 per person. The bridge might feel unsteady, but it is very safe and is regularly checked as a precaution. Children in particular love the excitement of the swinging bridge.

Nearby Accommodation Options

There is an abundance of accommodation options available in the area surrounding Giant’s Causeway. As one of the more popular destinations for European holidays, local hotels and guesthouses are prepared for larger numbers of travellers, especially in the summer months. If you would rather stay in a city, look for apartments in Northern Ireland rather than inns and small hotels. Private apartments for rent are available in nearby cities like Belfast and Lisburn.

View A Guide to Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, United Kingdom in a larger map

The post A Guide to Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, United Kingdom appeared first on Europe Explored.

River bores or tidal waves are a rarity. There are only sixty known bores that occur around the world to date. Owing the formation of the Severn Bore to the shape of the river’s estuary, the tidal waves are able to form and flow down the river. The bore maintains an average roughly 14 knots as it makes its way down the river. People who visit the river banks during this even can hear the roar of the water as much as twenty two kilometers away from the head.

Severn Bore, UK by Audrey Hudson

In Avonmouth, the River Severn estuary is nearly 9 kilometers wide. By the time that the river reaches Sharpness, the estuary is a little more than 1.4 kilometers wide. Where the river passes Minsterworth, the estuary is less than a hundred meters in width and maintains roughly the same width until it reaches Gloucester.

People wanting to view the power of the Severn Bore, should visit the area during the spring time. Since the bore is caused by the tides, the Environment Agency is able to publish regular occurrences of the bore and its expected height.

One of the best viewing locations of the Severn Bore is on the eastern banks of the river in Stonebench. Some say that the best place to see the bore is from the Severn Bore Inn which is located in Minsterworth. Here there is a pub, food a car park as well as floodlights for nighttime viewing of the river bores. Some say that the best time to witness the bores is in the dark of night when you have to use a floodlight to see the water.

Countless people stop at the Over Bridge which crosses the River Severn. From this viewpoint, you can watch the tidal waves as it surges directly under your feet. You can feel the force of the water rushing under the bridge as the entire ground shakes. The feeling of having witnessed the Severn Bore “Over the River” is an amazing one.

The post Severn Bore – surfing on the river Severn in England, United Kingdom appeared first on Europe Explored.

Durdle Door, Dorset, England, UK by W. Lloyd MacKenzie

The vast majority of Durdle Door is composed of limestone which is why over the centuries it has slowly eroded away to form the arch. Its mammoth size however has led to its popularity over the years. Countless people have made their way to Durdle Door and to enjoy the English countryside.

The limestone rock formation has appeared in a number of music videos over the last few decades which have increased its popularity. One of the more popular videos is the Tears for Fears’ Shout video which was filmed on location in and around Durdle Door. Also, Pink Floyd fans have seen an image of the rock formation in the lyric books supplied with every “The Division Bell” album sold.

The rock that the Durdle Door is composed of stretch for great distances in every direction. They can be found hundreds of meters inland as well as out in the sea. Those who visit the Durdle Door will also be able to see the Bull which is located just off shore. This has been determined to be a continuation of the rock that the door itself is made of.

Durdle Door, Dorset Coast, England, UK by W. Lloyd MacKenzie

While there are many things to see and do in England, many people make the choice to head out into the countryside to get as far away from the hustle and bustle of life in London. While there are many great attractions in the capital city, some of the best destinations in the country are not.

There are countless castles and other ruins of days gone by that can be found in and around the area where the Durdle Door is located. The area known as the Jurassic Coast is one of the more popular destinations in the country.

The post Durdle Door natural wonder on the Jurassic Coast | United Kingdom appeared first on Europe Explored.

The entire region not only includes the peninsula, but covers an area of more then 188 kilometres. In the north, you will find the Loughor Estuary and to the east one can find Swansea Bay.

Gower Peninsula, Wales, UK by Mike Mantin

There are numerous caves that can be found along the edges of the peninsula. The most popular of these caves includes the Minchin Hole Cave and the Paviland Cave. The central portion of the peninsula is agricultural land. While there are some villages in the area, very few have been developed extensively.

It has been well known that the area of Wales has been inhabited by civilizations dating back to the Upper Palaeolithic Era. Over the years, a number of archaeological discoveries on Gower Peninsula have been made. Back in 1823, an archaeologist uncovered the skeleton of a male who had lived in the peninsula more than 33,000 years ago. Several burial chambers that have been successfully dated back to the Neolithic period have also been uncovered.

Out of the original nine stones Bronze Age menhirs that once existed on the peninsula, eight of them are still standing upright today. It is here that one will find the infamous Arthur’s Stone which weighs in at a massive twenty-five tons. To imagine that these massive rocks were cut and moved to the area during the Bronze Age is simply amazing.

Three Cliffs Bay on the Gower Peninsula, South Wales, UK by Walter Daw

You will not only find a castle in the peninsula that dates back to the medieval period, you will also find the Roman fort of Leucarum. The Roman built fortress can be found where the River Loughor’s mouth existed back in the first century. Today a Norman Castle exists in the location.

You will find that the area is home to a total of six castles. You will find the Bovehill Castle on the Gower Peninsula as well as the Oxwich, Oystermouth, Pennard, Weobley and Penrice Castles. While not all of them are in the best conditions, they are nonetheless a very popular part of visiting the area.

The post Gower Peninsula – Amazing Natural Beauty You’ll Never Forget | Wales, UK appeared first on Europe Explored.

The cove has attracted countless visitors not only because of its beauty, but also because of its mysteries. The rocks that form the walls of the cove consist of bands of rocks which over the years have formed parallel to the coastline.

Lulworth Cove and surroundings, Dorset, England, UK by Arpingstone

The cove entrance is nothing more than a small gap that has been eroded away between some bands of limestone. Since the limestone is the most resilient of the shoreline rocks, it is found most abundantly in the area. The cove itself was once filled with sands and clays which over the millennia have been eroded away by the waves and through water run-off.

Over the years, as the waves started making their way into the cove, they started to reshape it. The uniqueness of the Lulworth Cove’s shape is as a result of what is known as wave diffraction. Needless to say, the cove is a very unique and picturesque geological landmark in the UK.

It is believed that only a few thousand years ago, the Lulworth Cove looked much different than it does today. Only about a kilometre away you will find a site that is known as Stair Hole. Many people believe that the cove started off very similar to the hole before reaching the shape it is known for today.

Anyone who makes their way to the Jurassic Coast has to stop at West Lulworth first. From here, most make their way to the Lulworth Cove before stopping off to see the many other popular sites along the coastlines. Here, where the land has simply folded over on itself time and time again, you will find some of the most amazing geological formations as well as the potential to find some fossils that date back to the day when dinosaurs called the area home.

The area is also importance to the nation as the sand beneath the area where the Lulworth Cove sits is one of the richest oil deposits in the United Kingdom. With the coastline being designated a World Heritage Site, special care must be taken to extract the oil from the seabed without affecting the coastline and the fossils buried beneath.

The post Lulworth Cove – beautiful natural attraction at Jurassic Coast, Dorset, England appeared first on Europe Explored.

The area where the Needles can be found is known as the Jurassic Coast. It is here that the land has been folded as a result of tectonics over the course of millions of years. As a result, the almost vertical strands of rocks can be seen throughout the region. Chalk is one of the more resilient rocks and as a result has continued to stand long after the clays and sandstones have washed away.

The Needles, Isle of Wight, UK by Peter Pearson

It was known that back in the beginning of the eighteenth century, there were four needles in the formation. However, in 1764 a storm ravished the area and knocked over one of the rocks. The name the Needles dates back hundreds of years. Today though, the rocks have lost their needle-like appearance as a result of erosion by the waves.

Another popular attraction in the area is the Needles Lighthouse which was built back in 1859. It has been operational ever since. However, in order to reduce costs and manpower, the lighthouse was automated back in 1994.

There is also an amusement park that can be found on a nearby cliff that over looks the geological land formation. Known as the Needles Pleasure Park, it has grown to become a very popular destination in the area. The park is most well known for the chairlift that takes people to Alum Bay and back.

The headlands that overlook the Needles are home to several gun batteries as well as an experimental testing facility for rockets. While the batteries were in use during the 1950s and 60s, they have long since been decommissioned. The rocket test facility is located mostly underground and was operated by as many as 240 people during the 1960s. Part of the underground facilities have been completely restored and are currently open to the public.

There are a number of old Coastguard cottages that can be found in the area. Now under National Trust, the cottages are available for rental throughout the year. People who wish to have a party in the area, or that would like to visit and stay can rent the Coastguard cottages.

Most of the park and surrounding countryside can be travelled using bicycle or on foot. However, when there is a high wind warning in the area, the site where the batteries are located is closed for safety reasons.

The post The Needles – very impressive columns of chalk on the Isle of Wight, United Kingdom appeared first on Europe Explored.

The area where the Old Harry Rocks sits is known as the Jurassic coast. Because of tectonics, the land has folded over and over itself time and time again. As a result, rocks that date back to not just the Jurassic period, but also the Triassic and Cretaceous period can be seen clearly. Amongst these rocks are the fossils of countless dinosaurs from long ago; just waiting to be uncovered.

Old Harry Rocks, UK by John Tomlinson

The area where the Old Harry Rocks can be found is filled with chalk and this particular kind of rock is very resistant to the acidic attacks by saltwater. There was a day when a number of chalk columns stood in the area, but because of erosion by the waves, one by one they have tumbled to the sea. The last rock to fall was back in 1896, it was considered to be the wife of Old Harry. Today, all that is left of her is a stump.

However, to the east, just across the water you will see the very popular Needles that are situated along the coastline of the Isle of Wight. While the distance is quite far if the day is clear enough then you should have no problems seeing the Needles. It is said, that the islands used to be connected by the chalk but over the millennia this bridge has long since eroded away.

Old Harry Rocks, England, UK by Cmcqueen

Before long, it is expected that the Old Harry Rocks too will succumb to erosion. There are many people working together to find a way to protect the rocks and preserve them from the tremendous force of the waves and time.

As local legend has it, the name of the Old Harry Rocks comes from an infamous pirate who hid out in the area. Harry Paye, who was a pirate from Poole, used the area as his hideout and was said to have buried his treasures along the rocky shores of the island. While no treasure has ever been found, the name stuck as a symbol to the history that has made the island what it is today.

The post Old Harry Rocks – Chalk stacks in Dorset, United Kingdom appeared first on Europe Explored.