The history

The trust

Steeped in history and heritage

The history of the trust

Steep Holm’s history dates back to the Stone Age before rising seas made it an island. It has been a Viking stronghold, medieval priory, fishery, and smuggler’s haven. The Victorians fortified it, and WWII brought more defences.

Purchased in 1976 as a memorial to Kenneth Allsop, it is now a nature reserve, bird sanctuary, and Site of Special Scientific Interest. Visitors can explore military ruins, archaeological digs, and stunning views.

The Steep Holm Trust is dedicated to preserving the island’s landscape, wildlife, and historical significance while promoting public education in the natural sciences.

As seen on

KENNETH ALLSOP MEMORIAL TRUST

In memory of Kenneth Allsop

Kenneth Allsop was a renowned journalist, best known for his sharp interviews on the BBC’s Tonight and 24 Hours in the 1960s and early 1970s. A dedicated conservationist, he fought to protect natural landscapes, including preventing oil drilling in West Dorset and saving ancient oak forests near Eggardon Hill.

After his wartime injury led to the amputation of his leg, he continued to battle pain and depression until his death in 1973. To honour his legacy, the Kenneth Allsop Memorial Trust was formed, ultimately purchasing Steep Holm in 1976 as a nature reserve and sanctuary. Run entirely by volunteers, the Trust maintains the island’s wildlife and historic military sites.