Bigbury-on-Sea and Burgh Island
A tidal island with a unique sea tractor, historic inns, and stunning coastal walks. Accessible by foot at low tide.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Access Burgh Island by foot
Bigbury-on-Sea and Burgh Island
Best Time
Access Burgh Island by foot
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tidal island with a unique sea tractor, historic inns, and stunning coastal walks. Accessible by foot at low tide.
"A breathtaking beach with a magical twist – walk or ride the sea tractor to Burgh Island!"
Check Tide Times First! :clock1:
Crucial for planning your visit to Burgh Island. Walk at low tide, sea tractor at high tide.
Sea Tractor Fun :tractor:
A must-do for all ages! Costs £3 each way. Cash or card accepted on the island.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Sea Tractor
Bigbury-on-Sea to Burgh Island
Ride this one-of-a-kind tractor across the waves at high tide for a truly unique island transfer.
Burgh Island Causeway Walk
Bigbury-on-Sea to Burgh Island
Stroll across the sandy causeway to Burgh Island at low tide, enjoying stunning coastal views.
Historic Pilchard Inn
Burgh Island
Enjoy a drink or meal at this 14th-century inn, a historic spot on Burgh Island.
Art Deco Burgh Island Hotel
Burgh Island
Admire the striking 1930s Art Deco architecture of this famous hotel.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tides are Everything
+1Sea Tractor Adventure
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tide Times First! :clock1:
Crucial for planning your visit to Burgh Island. Walk at low tide, sea tractor at high tide.
Sea Tractor Fun :tractor:
A must-do for all ages! Costs £3 each way. Cash or card accepted on the island.
Dog-Friendly Beach Areas :dog:
Designated areas on Bigbury beach welcome dogs, perfect for furry friends.
Parking & Facilities :parking:
Payable parking available (Ringo app). Toilets and lifeguard service in summer.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tide Times First! :clock1:
Crucial for planning your visit to Burgh Island. Walk at low tide, sea tractor at high tide.
Sea Tractor Fun :tractor:
A must-do for all ages! Costs £3 each way. Cash or card accepted on the island.
Dog-Friendly Beach Areas :dog:
Designated areas on Bigbury beach welcome dogs, perfect for furry friends.
Parking & Facilities :parking:
Payable parking available (Ringo app). Toilets and lifeguard service in summer.
Coastal Walks Galore :hiking_boot:
Explore stunning cliff paths around Bigbury and Burgh Island for breathtaking views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique experience of Bigbury-on-Sea and Burgh Island, particularly the novelty of the sea tractor and the ability to walk to the island at low tide. The stunning coastal scenery, historic inns, and family-friendly atmosphere are frequently praised. Some minor drawbacks include payable parking and the reliance on tide times for access.
"What an amazing day at the beach! You have parking, toilets, coffee, accessible ramp to the beach, lifeguard service, sand and blue water 😍 but the biggest attraction is the sea tractor! It costs 2£ for a ride (kids under 10 go for free) and you can pay by cash or cross to the island and pay by card at the pub. The views are amazing and my 3.5 years old son can't stop talking about this! After we crossed to the island and spent some time there we wanted to go back on the sea tractor but realized that it's low tide and the tractor stopped since you can easily walk back :)
Would definitely come back here!!!"
iyyar schwartz
"This must be one of the most beautiful beaches of the UK. We enjoyed every minute of it. Lovely drive through the Devon countryside to get there."
J Hc
"We as a family went every year since 1998 Started with 3 days then.5 , then we’d go a week. The golf club, the nosey lobster, and walking a lot. Lovely cliff walk all wrapped up. Walking to the pilchard inn on burgh island. Drinking local beer and cider and looking for the tractor to take us back home. Great take aways, they deliver for a say £3 extra. Bargain."
Karen Peard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bigbury-on-Sea is accessible by car via the A379. Parking is available and payable via the Ringo app. To reach Burgh Island, you can walk across the sandy causeway at low tide or take the unique sea tractor at high tide.
Yes, there is payable parking available at Bigbury-on-Sea, which can be managed using the Ringo app.
Yes, you can walk to Burgh Island across a sandy causeway during low tide. Always check tide times before you set off.
The sea tractor is a unique vehicle that transports visitors between Bigbury-on-Sea and Burgh Island when the tide is high. It costs £3 each way and operates daily.
While public transport options exist to reach the general area, direct bus routes to Bigbury-on-Sea might be limited. It's best to check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entry fee for Bigbury beach itself. Parking is payable, and the sea tractor ride to Burgh Island has a fee of £3 per person each way.
The sea tractor ride costs £3 per person for a one-way trip. Children under 10 often travel for free.
You can pay for the sea tractor with cash, or by card once you reach the Pilchard Inn on Burgh Island.
There are no specific entry fees to access Burgh Island itself. You pay for parking at Bigbury-on-Sea and the sea tractor if you use it.
The Pilchard Inn and the Burgh Island Hotel have their own operating hours. It's advisable to check their specific opening times directly, especially for dining reservations.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
On Burgh Island, you can visit the historic Pilchard Inn, admire the Art Deco hotel, explore the island's summit for panoramic views, and enjoy coastal walks.
Yes, lifeguards are typically on duty at Bigbury beach during the summer months, making it a safe spot for swimming.
Bigbury beach is known for its sandy shores and relatively safe swimming conditions, especially with lifeguards present in summer.
Yes, dogs are allowed on specific sections of Bigbury beach, making it a great destination for dog owners.
The views from the summit of Burgh Island are spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of the coastline, Bigbury Bay, and the surrounding Devon countryside.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The main dining option on Burgh Island is the historic Pilchard Inn, offering local food and drinks. The iconic Burgh Island Hotel also has dining facilities.
Yes, there are cafes and amenities at Bigbury-on-Sea, including the Venus Cafe and takeaway options, providing refreshments for beachgoers.
Takeaway food options are available at Bigbury-on-Sea, with some services offering delivery for an extra charge.
The Pilchard Inn is generally family-friendly, offering a historic atmosphere and food options that appeal to various ages.
It's highly recommended to book a table at the Pilchard Inn, especially during peak season or for evening meals, to avoid disappointment.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic shots include the sea tractor, the causeway at low tide, the Art Deco hotel, and panoramic views from Burgh Island's summit. The Pilchard Inn also offers charming photo opportunities.
Golden hour (sunrise and sunset) offers beautiful light for photography. Midday can be good for capturing the sea tractor in action.
Yes, the exterior of the Burgh Island Hotel is a popular subject for photography, showcasing its unique Art Deco design.
Generally, photography is permitted in public areas. However, be mindful of private property and any specific rules at the hotel or inn.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery and the sea tractor. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the hotel or distant views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The sandy beach at Bigbury is perfect for building sandcastles and paddling, and lifeguards are present in summer for added peace of mind. +1Walking the causeway to Burgh Island at low tide is an adventure in itself. Once on the island, exploring the historic Pilchard Inn and climbing to the summit for views provides a sense of discovery. Remember to check tide times to maximize your fun and avoid getting stranded!
+1🐶 Dog Owners
Many visitors enjoy walking their dogs along the coast and up to the summit of Burgh Island for spectacular views. While dogs are welcome on the island, it's always good practice to keep them on a lead, especially near the cliffs and around the hotel and inn. The sea tractor is generally accommodating to dogs, but it's wise to confirm their policy when you arrive.
📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
Capture the unique sea tractor in action against the dramatic coastal backdrop. The tidal causeway offers stunning leading lines and dramatic perspectives at different times of day. For artists, the island provides endless inspiration, from the rugged coastline to the historic architecture. Many creators find the blend of natural beauty and vintage charm perfect for painting and sketching.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Tides
+1When the tide rises, the causeway disappears, transforming Burgh Island into a true island. This is when the iconic sea tractor comes into play. This one-of-a-kind vehicle, a true marvel of engineering, ferries passengers across the water. The ride is not just a practical necessity but a memorable experience in itself, often cited as a highlight by families and those seeking a quirky adventure.
+1Understanding the tidal rhythm is key to planning a seamless visit. Whether you're walking across the sand or being transported by the sea tractor, the tides are an integral part of the Bigbury-on-Sea and Burgh Island experience. This dynamic interplay between land and sea adds a layer of magic and unpredictability that keeps visitors coming back.
Burgh Island: A Hub of History and Charm
+1Another historic gem is the Pilchard Inn, a 14th-century pub that has served sailors and locals for centuries. It's a perfect spot to relax with a drink or a meal, soaking in the atmosphere and imagining the stories these ancient walls could tell. The inn also serves as a boarding point for the sea tractor, adding to its functional charm.
Beyond the main attractions, the island offers opportunities for coastal walks and enjoying the rugged beauty of the Devon coastline. The summit provides breathtaking panoramic views, making it a rewarding climb for those who venture up. The combination of history, unique architecture, and natural beauty makes Burgh Island a captivating destination.
Bigbury-on-Sea: The Perfect Beach Base
+1The beach is also known for being dog-friendly in designated areas, which is a significant draw for visitors with pets. Amenities like toilets and cafes, such as the Venus Cafe, are available, making it a convenient place to spend a day. The beach's accessibility, with ramps for easier access, further enhances its appeal.
+1Bigbury-on-Sea serves as the perfect launchpad for exploring Burgh Island. Whether you're walking across the causeway or waiting for the sea tractor, the beach provides a stunning backdrop and a comfortable place to start your island adventure. The views across to Burgh Island are captivating, setting the scene for a memorable visit.
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