Hillsborough Nature Reserve: Views, Wildlife and Wild Walking

Perched on the headland above Ilfracombe, Hillsborough Nature Reserve is one of those places that rewards you the moment you arrive. The views from the top are simply spectacular, taking in the Bristol Channel, the Welsh coast on a clear day, and the beautiful sweep of Ilfracombe harbour below. Getting there involves a walk that is genuinely enjoyable rather than a slog, and the whole reserve feels like a well-kept secret that deserves far more attention than it currently gets.

The reserve is managed as a Local Nature Reserve and supports a rich variety of habitats including coastal grassland, scrub, and woodland. In spring and summer, the wildflowers are outstanding, and the site is excellent for butterflies, including some species that are rare in the wider UK. Walking the paths with children and spotting what is flying, crawling, or growing around you turns the visit into an effortless nature lesson.

The footpaths are accessible and reasonably well-marked, making this a good option for families with children who are old enough to manage some gentle climbing. The terrain is varied enough to feel adventurous without being genuinely challenging. Dogs are welcome throughout, which is excellent news given how many dog-friendly apartments Byron offers.

Ilfracombe itself is well worth combining with a visit to Hillsborough. The harbour is full of character, the aquarium is right on the waterfront, and there are good cafes and ice cream options to reward post-walk appetites. Damien Hirst’s striking Verity sculpture stands at the harbour entrance and tends to provoke great conversations with children about art and what it means.

Entry to the reserve is completely free, and it is around fifteen minutes from Byron. Bring binoculars if you have them, sturdy shoes for the paths, and something to identify the wildflowers you will inevitably want to name.