RSPB Labrador Bay Nature Reserve Shaldon

This nature reserve near Shaldon was purchased in 2008 to help secure the future of the cirl bunting, a rare little bird whose population is almost entirely restricted to south Devon. Being such a well-known beauty spot, offering stunning views over Lyme Bay, the site already attracts many thousands of visitors a year. But it's more than just a view!

As well as being part of a working farm grazed by cattle in the summer and sheep in the winter and where crops are grown, the reserve is great for watching wildlife from cirl buntings and peregrines to butterflies, grasshoppers and crickets. And there are some wonderful flowers and fungi to be seen as well.

The reserve extends along 1.25 miles (2 km) of spectacular south Devon coast. Habitats here include coastal cliff top, woodland, scrub, low-intensity arable and semi-improved grasslands.

There is a good variety of cafes, restaurants and pubs in nearby Shaldon, plus pubs in Maidencombe, Stokenteignhead and Combeinteignhead. The closest public toilets are by the Smugglers Tunnel, the Ness, Shaldon, and are a good 20 minutes walk away.

Opening times

Open at all times

Entrance charges

Entry to the reserve is free. There's a pay-and-display car park owned by Teignbridge District Council.

Information for disabled visitors

The car park gives great views, but the footpaths are rugged and steep in places, so unsuitable for wheelchairs.

Information for dog owners

Dogs are only allowed on public footpaths and bridleways. As this is a working farm with livestock, dogs must be kept under control at all times.

http://www.rspb.org.uk/discoverandenjoynature/seenature/reserves/guide/l/labradorbay/about.aspx