Steep Holm is not just a rock in the middle of the Bristol Channel, but a haven for visitors, a site of special scientific interest, and a Nature Reserve: all with the most spectacular views in all directions - the Severn Bridges, Weston Bay, the North Somerset, Devon & Welsh coasts. From earliest childhood, "islands" always evoke a sense of mystery & fascination & Steep Holm is no exception, having its own share of secrets well worth exploring. Certainly mankind has left distinct signs of habitation over the ages - but it remains largely natural because people cannot drive their motor cars up to this peaceful place whenever the fancy takes them. There is a little more to it than that! However, the adventure of going there is a truly rewarding experience & is to be highly recommended to historians, naturalists and intrepid travellers alike.

A five mile boat trip lasting about an hour from Weston-super-Mare lands visitors on a pebble beach. Occasionally the smaller Weston vessels link up with Waverley or Balmoral paddle steamers to take some of their passengers ashore because the larger vessels are constrained by their draught. Once ashore, there is a zigzag ascent through a small sycamore wood to the island's plateau 256 feet above sea level. Spreading over some 50 acres, a remarkable variety of features are there to excite & enthral young & old, the serious student & the curious tripper, anyone with the mildest sense of adventure & lovers of peace & quiet. Only a short boat trip from the busy Weston sea front, you can spend a few hours in a quite different world. What a jewel set in the Bristol Channel this small island is.

For those seeking the opportunity to observe & appreciate flora & fauna of the island, there is an abundance of rare plants & other lush Mediterranean vegetation waiting to be discovered. Our photo shows the wild peonies in breathtaking bloom. A variety of sea birds, such as gulls & cormorants, crowd in during the spring & early summer breeding season at which time the visitor might well find the normal peace & quiet somewhat disturbed! The stealthy & lucky visitor might catch a glimpse of the shy Muntjac deer which graze the island. This rich treasure of wildlife flourishes under the protection of its remote solitude as a Nature Reserve "far from the madding crowd". Long may it remain a peaceful habitat for its flora & fauna as well as bringing delight to its visitors.