On Wednesday’s third episode of Our Tiny Islands, viewers are taken to three distinct destinations: the Welsh island of Bardsey, the Scottish island of Eriskay, and Flat Holm, located just outside Cardiff in the Bristol Channel.
Bardsey, a Welsh island, attracts a steady stream of pilgrims during the summer, drawn by its rich spiritual heritage. However, only six individuals, including Gareth and his wife Meriel, call this place home. They farm the land and operate a small café, serving fresh lobster and chips to any visitors who stay overnight.
In contrast, the Scottish island of Eriskay is home to approximately 200 people. This small island, just three miles long and one and a half miles wide, gained fame as the landing site for Bonnie Prince Charlie and, later, barrels of whisky from the ill-fated SS Politician. Today, it is also known for its football pitch, recognized by FIFA as one of the most extraordinary places to play the sport globally.
Volunteer warden Megan is dedicated to conserving Flat Holm’s natural environment and protecting its birdlife. Located just five miles from Cardiff, this tiny island in the Bristol Channel provides a peaceful habitat for sea birds and other wildlife.
The episode also explores Northey Island, situated in the middle of the Blackwater Estuary in Essex. This uninhabited island is only accessible via a causeway at low tide. Designated as a Marine Conservation Zone, Northey plays a crucial role in the National Trust’s strategy for managing coastal change, thanks to its valuable salt marshes, which are effective carbon captors.
Our Tiny Islands: Bardsey, Wales airs on Wednesday, 9 October 2024, at 9:00 pm on More4.
