The beautiful UK island that's a 'travel secret' - no cars and 28 people living there

A tiny island off the coast of Devon with no cars, no roads, and just 28 residents is being called the "UK's best-kept travel secret". Lundy Island lies 12 miles from the North Devon coast and is completely free from traffic. Tourists are not allowed to bring vehicles, and the island doesn't have any roads for private use. Instead, visitors explore on foot, with walking the only way to get around.

Owned by the National Trust and managed by the Landmark Trust, the island offers a peaceful escape from modern life. There are no petrol stations, no queues of cars, and no sound of engines, just quiet paths, sea views, and wildlife. Ferries run to Lundy from Ilfracombe and Bideford during the sailing season, and a helicopter service operates in the winter.

Once on the island, visitors find a small village with stone cottages, a pub, and a 19th-century church.

The island's population of just 28 includes staff who live and work there all year round, including the warden, shopkeeper, pub team, and maintenance workers.

Experts at Number 1 Plates, who work with UK drivers daily, say places like Lundy are becoming more popular as people look to escape busy roads and noisy cities. They also call the islad the "UK's best-kept travel secret".

"A lot of drivers are fed up with traffic and overcrowded tourist spots," a spokesperson said. "Lundy is peaceful, car-free, and feels like a proper break."

The island is known for its natural beauty. Puffins, seals, and Soay sheep live on the island, and there are regular sightings of seabirds and even basking sharks.

Birdwatchers and nature lovers visit year-round to explore the area's cliffs and wildlife.

Lundy is also rich in history. It was once used by pirates and smugglers, and parts of the island are still linked to old legends, including one about a ghost ship seen sailing near the coast during storms.

Visitors can hike to the remains of Marisco Castle, visit the disused lighthouse at the north end, or enjoy the views from the cliffs without having to worry about cars or crowds.

Accommodation is limited, with 23 holiday properties available, including cottages, castles, and even a lighthouse.

There's no TV, very little phone signal, and the only pub on the island, the Marisco Tavern, serves food and drinks to walkers.

Mobility support is also available. A Tramper scooter can be hired, and Land Rover transport can be arranged in some areas. Paths can be uneven, so good shoes are recommended.

Experts say car-free destinations like Lundy offer a slower, more sustainable way to travel. "You don't always need a vehicle to explore," the experts at Number 1 Plates added. "Sometimes, the places with no cars turn out to be the most memorable."