
Burgh Island
A unique tidal island in South Devon, famed for its glamorous Art Deco hotel and historic inn, accessible by causeway or sea tractor.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Walk the causeway

Burgh Island
Best Time
Walk the causeway

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique tidal island in South Devon, famed for its glamorous Art Deco hotel and historic inn, accessible by causeway or sea tractor.
"A wonderful experience from start to finish, surpassing expectations in every way."

Check Tide Times First! :wave:
Access is tidal! Plan your visit around low tide for the causeway walk or high tide for the sea tractor.
Book Ahead for Hotel/Dining :calendar:
The iconic Burgh Island Hotel is popular. Reserve rooms or tables well in advance, especially for special occasions.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Burgh Island Hotel
The island's main structure
Step back in time at this stunning Art Deco hotel, a haven for glamour and literary history.

The Sea Tractor
Causeway to the island
Experience a quirky and memorable ride across the water at high tide in this unique vehicle.

Pilchard Inn
On the island
Enjoy a drink or meal at this historic 14th-century inn, steeped in island lore.

Coastal Walks
Around the island and causeway
Stroll along the sandy causeway at low tide or explore the island's scenic paths.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tidal Access & Sea Tractor
Art Deco Charm & Booking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tide Times First! :wave:
Access is tidal! Plan your visit around low tide for the causeway walk or high tide for the sea tractor.
Book Ahead for Hotel/Dining :calendar:
The iconic Burgh Island Hotel is popular. Reserve rooms or tables well in advance, especially for special occasions.
Sea Tractor Schedule Varies :warning:
The sea tractor doesn't always run, even at high tide. Confirm its operation directly with the hotel.
Embrace the Art Deco Vibe :sparkles:
Dress up a little for dinner or cocktails to fully immerse yourself in the glamorous 1920s atmosphere.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tide Times First! :wave:
Access is tidal! Plan your visit around low tide for the causeway walk or high tide for the sea tractor.
Book Ahead for Hotel/Dining :calendar:
The iconic Burgh Island Hotel is popular. Reserve rooms or tables well in advance, especially for special occasions.
Sea Tractor Schedule Varies :warning:
The sea tractor doesn't always run, even at high tide. Confirm its operation directly with the hotel.
Embrace the Art Deco Vibe :sparkles:
Dress up a little for dinner or cocktails to fully immerse yourself in the glamorous 1920s atmosphere.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be walking on sand and potentially uneven paths, so sturdy footwear is a must.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Burgh Island for its unique tidal access, the iconic Art Deco hotel, and the exceptional service. Many highlight the glamorous atmosphere, delicious food, and the memorable sea tractor experience. Some minor critiques mention a desire for more variety in lunch menus, but overall, the island is highly recommended for its distinctive charm and luxurious feel.
"Beautiful Deco hotel famous for Agatha Christie connection and features in the books/TV shows. Exceptional waiter and the lady who greeted us was fantastic. There's a lovely cocktail bar and lounge and the dining room had views across the coast. Being picky, it would be great if there was a bit more variety in the lunch menu and some things we ordered could have been elevated in keeping with the surroundings. Overall a very good experience"
Karie Matthews
"A wonderful experience from start to finish. Beautiful food, wonderful rooms and location, faultless charming staff. We came to celebrate a significant wedding anniversary and it absolutely surpassed our expectations in every way. We cannot wait to return."
Katharine Driver
"Sue and I have just returned from Burgh Island after celebrating our 25th wedding anniversary, after 9 nine years together Sue decided to propose to me with a dead rose! (long story).
Anyway we have had the most wonderful escape on the island. We were lucky enough to have three nights of luxury, and to be honest we could not fault anything, the staff were all so polite, helpful and fun they could not do enough for us. The food was really good, certainly quality over quantity, I’m not saying the portion sizes were small they were not. As for the decor everything was in the style of the 20’s and thirties, think art-deco everything and you will get the idea. Was this a cheap break no, was it worth every penny, yes.
Will we be going back…..you bet
If you love the style of the 1920’s and 30’s you will love this hotel and it’s setting.
We highly recommend Burgh Island."
Nick Ashdown
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Burgh Island is accessible from Bigbury-on-Sea. At low tide, you can walk across the sandy causeway. At high tide, a unique sea tractor service operates, though it's advisable to confirm its schedule with the Burgh Island Hotel as it's not always running.
The sea tractor operates during high tide, but its schedule can vary and it's not always in service. It's best to contact the Burgh Island Hotel directly for the most up-to-date information on its operation.
No, you cannot drive directly onto Burgh Island. Access is either by walking the causeway at low tide or using the sea tractor at high tide. Parking is available in Bigbury-on-Sea.
Access via the causeway can be challenging due to sand and tide. The sea tractor is generally more accessible, but it's recommended to contact the hotel to confirm specific accessibility arrangements.
From London, you can take a train to Exeter St Davids or Plymouth, then a bus or taxi to Bigbury-on-Sea. The final leg to the island depends on the tide.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There's no entry fee to walk the causeway or visit the island's public areas. However, if you wish to stay at the Burgh Island Hotel or dine there, advance booking is essential.
The cost for the sea tractor is typically included if you are a guest of the Burgh Island Hotel or have a dining reservation. For day visitors, inquire directly with the hotel for current pricing.
Burgh Island itself is accessible whenever the tide allows for walking the causeway. The Burgh Island Hotel and Pilchard Inn have their own operating hours, which are best checked directly.
Yes, you can visit the island to walk the causeway and visit the Pilchard Inn. However, to experience the full glamour and amenities, booking a stay or a meal at the hotel is recommended.
There are no general entrance fees for Burgh Island. Access is determined by the tide, and the sea tractor is the primary mode of transport at high tide, with associated costs for its use.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the Art Deco Burgh Island Hotel, enjoy a drink at the historic Pilchard Inn, take scenic coastal walks, and experience the unique sea tractor ride.
Absolutely! The Art Deco architecture, dramatic coastal scenery, and the unique sea tractor offer fantastic photographic opportunities.
Agatha Christie was inspired by Burgh Island and the hotel, setting her novels 'Evil Under the Sun' and 'Hercule Poirot's Christmas' there. The hotel embraces this literary heritage.
Yes, there are paths that allow you to circumnavigate the island, offering different perspectives of the coastline and the hotel.
You might spot various seabirds along the coast. The surrounding waters are also home to marine life, though sightings are not guaranteed.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The main dining options are the Burgh Island Hotel's restaurant, offering fine dining with coastal views, and the historic Pilchard Inn for a more casual pub experience.
Dining at the Burgh Island Hotel is considered a premium experience, reflecting the quality of food, service, and the unique setting. Expect higher price points.
While it's a pub, booking a table at the Pilchard Inn is recommended, especially during peak season or for evening meals, to avoid disappointment.
The hotel offers formal dining with a focus on quality ingredients and presentation, often with a nod to classic cuisine and the Art Deco era. Cocktails are also a highlight.
The Burgh Island Hotel typically offers a range of options, and it's advisable to inform them of any dietary requirements when booking your table to ensure they can accommodate you.
📸 📸 Photography
The Art Deco facade of the hotel, the sea tractor against the water, the causeway at different tide levels, and panoramic coastal views from the island's higher points are all excellent photo opportunities.
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for the coastal scenery. Midday can be good for capturing the vibrant Art Deco colors of the hotel.
Drone usage may be restricted, especially around the hotel and private residences. Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone.
A versatile lens for landscapes and architecture, a wide-angle lens to capture the hotel's grandeur, and a telephoto lens for distant coastal views would be beneficial.
While general photography is usually permitted, be mindful of private property and hotel guests. Always ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals or private areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during low tide for easier exploration and more space to roam. Pack beach-friendly shoes and be mindful of the tides to ensure you don't get stranded. While the Burgh Island Hotel is luxurious, it might be more suited for special occasions; the Pilchard Inn is a more practical choice for family meals.
💍 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider booking a stay during low tide to enjoy romantic walks along the causeway as the sun sets. The island's secluded atmosphere and stunning coastal views create a truly magical ambiance. Even a day trip for afternoon tea or a special dinner at the hotel can be a wonderfully romantic experience.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Explorers
Embrace the Art Deco charm of the hotel, even if just for a coffee or a cocktail, to experience its unique ambiance. Checking the tide times and sea tractor schedule adds an element of adventure to your day. It's a place to disconnect and enjoy the dramatic natural beauty and unique historical character.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Tides: Your Guide to Burgh Island Access
It's essential to check the tide times before your visit. Websites and local information boards will provide accurate predictions. While the sea tractor is a charming mode of transport, it's not always operational, even at high tide. Factors like rough seas or maintenance can affect its service. Therefore, it's highly recommended to contact the Burgh Island Hotel directly to confirm the sea tractor's schedule on the day of your intended visit. This proactive step will prevent any disappointment and ensure a smooth arrival.
For those who enjoy a bit of exploration, walking the causeway at low tide offers a different perspective. You can often find interesting shells and discover the island's marine environment. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the sand can be soft and uneven. The sea tractor, on the other hand, offers a more comfortable and direct route when the tide is high, adding a touch of novelty to your island adventure.
The Allure of Art Deco: Burgh Island Hotel & Its Literary Legacy
Staying at the hotel or even dining in its elegant restaurant is an experience in itself. Guests often rave about the impeccable service, the delicious food, and the breathtaking sea views from the dining room and lounge areas. The hotel offers a unique 'cruise ship' style service, with staff attending to luggage and turning down rooms at night, enhancing the feeling of being pampered. The cocktail bar is also a highlight, serving expertly crafted drinks in a stylish setting.
Beyond the hotel, the island itself offers a sense of escape. The Pilchard Inn, a historic 14th-century pub, provides a more rustic charm and a chance to soak in the island's long history. Exploring the island's coastal paths offers stunning vistas and a peaceful retreat from the mainland. Whether you're a fan of Art Deco, a literary enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique getaway, Burgh Island promises a memorable experience.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit