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Wow factor
Accessibility
Photo potential
Skokholm Island
| Directions: |
Skokholm Island lies off the south west coast of Pembrokeshire, 4km south west of Marloes peninsula and a similar distance south of Skomer. It’s accessed by boat from Martin’s Haven (2 miles from Marloes). |
| Accessibility: |
Due to restoration work due to finish 2010, Skokholm can be visited on restricted dates only (see website for details). The boat service leaves Martin’s Haven at 8:30am and returns between 3:30-4:30pm (check return times before travelling). The landing point is uneven, with steep steps and an uphill walk to the top of the island. On the island, terrain is varied and uneven in places. There is little shelter and visitors should be prepared for all weather conditions. |
| Costs: |
Fees apply but are currently unavailable. |
| Best time to visit: |
Mid-May through to the end of July. |
Venue information
Skokholm is of international importance for its breeding seabirds and this is reflected in the many designations awarded it. It is a SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest), part of the Skomer and Skokholm SPA (Special Protection Area), part of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and part of the Pembrokeshire Islands SAC (Special Area of Conservation). There’s a colony of Manx shearwaters here – probably the third largest in the world, with 15% of the world population; and breeding storm petrels which could account for up to 20% of the EU population. These two species spend most of their lives at sea, only coming ashore to breed, and then only at night! The island is also home to thousands of puffins, razorbills and guillemots which breed on its cliffs. Photography requires medium-to-long telephoto lenses and weatherproofing for the camera, as weather is changeable.
Venue verdict: Arguably more challenging than its big neighbour, Skomer, but just as rewarding. The current restrictions on visiting the island may encourage many potential visitors to head elsewhere.
Ratings (out of five): 3