NORTH DEVON TOURIST HOTSPOTS

Ilfracombe Aquarium

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Ilfracombe Aquarium, The Old Lifeboat House, The Pier, Ilfracombe, North Devon, EX34 9EQ

Telephone: 01271 864533

Ilfracombe Aquarium

The Aquarium houses a diverse collection of aquatic life in beautifully recreated habitat. The Aquarium provides a fascinating insight into the wonders of the aquatic world found locally around North Devon. Providing home to over 75 species some of which for many visitors have never seen before.

The Aquarium is located in the old Lifeboat House and as a child we used to visit the Lifeboat each time we went to the harbour.

The Aquarium offers a small coffee shop where you can grab a Latte and peruse around the small shop selling all manners of fishy things.

Lundy Island's Puffins

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Lundy is also well known as 'Puffin Island' due to it's Puffin colony. the Puffin's of Lundy island were under threat due to the Rats that were living on the island of which there were some 40,000. The rats which live on the Puffin's egg and baby chicks had seriously affected Puffin numbers and was believed to be the reason as to why the numbers drastically declined. Conservationists set about removing the rats from the island in a 2 year cull which has proven to be good for the Puffin's. it has been said that there have been no sightings of Rats on the island now for over a year so they are confident that the island is now rat free.

Barnstaple Attractions

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Barnstaple Castle was built of wood in the 11th century and the castle's first stone buildings were probably erected in the 12th century. There are not many remains left of the castle other than the tree covered motte remains.

Today Barnstaple is a partly pedestrianised centre, everyday you will find a Pannier Market on. Each day hosting a different set of things to but. my favourite day is Wednesday as its a day collectibles - you can find anything from Silver spoons to Comics.

Interesting places to see are the original Norman Castle wall, the ornate Queen Anne's Walk and the 13th century "Long Bridge". Close to the bridge you will find the museum of North Devon.

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From Barnstaple, you can discover the excellent 180 mile "Tarka Trail" walk. Alternatively you can take the easy option and take the trip by rail along the scenic Tarka Line.

Why should you visit Lundy Island?

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Lundy is different from any other Island, if you want to relax this is the place to be. It is only three and a half miles long and half a mile wide, it is peaceful and unspoilt. The sea is clear and at night the landscape is spectacular. Lundy Island has many activities for you to do, Walking, Diving, Climbing, Birdwatching, Fishing, Snorkeling.

The Island hosts a tavern and a total of 23 holiday properties to choose from, these include a lighthouse, a castle and a Victorian mansion. The Island also has a camp site on the south of the Island. The main centre of activity on the Island in the evenings is the Marisco Tavern. Up to a few years ago beer was brewed on the Island but is now 'imported' from the mainland.

Lundy is popular for a number of various groups which include climbers, divers, birdwatchers. Groups of bell ringers regularly come over to ring the bells of St Helena's church which has been restored recently.

Lundy has evidence of visitation or occupation from the Neolithic period onward, with Mesolithic flint work, Bronze Age burial mounds, four inscribed gravestones from the early medieval period, and an early medieval monastery possibly dedicated to St Elen or St Helen.

Beacon Hill Cemetery was excavated in 1969. The cemetery contains four inscribed stones, dated to the 5th or 6th century AD. The site was originally enclosed by a bank and a ditch, which is still visible in the south west corner.

That's why you should visit Lundy Island! i plan to in July.

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Amusement Arcades

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The Sun Spot, Wilder Road, Ilfracombe Devon, EX34 8BN

Telephone: 01271 863352

The Sun Spot is the main arcade located on the main road into Ilfracombe.

The Milky Way Adventure Park

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The Milky Way Adventure Park, Higher Clovelly, Bideford, Devon, EX37 5RY

Telephone: 01237 431255

For the biggest rides and best shows plus acres of outdoor fun visit The Milky Way. The park includes Alien Encounters, Adventure Playground which includes the Fly Away on the Suspended Ride and a Massive indoor play area. Other activities include Archery and laser target shooting.

This is a park that as a child my family and i frequented most holidays, however, it wasn't quite as adventurous as above. During my time The Milky Way was a full working farm and activities included bottle feeding the spring lambs.

Ilfracombe Attractions - Tunnel Beaches

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Tunnels Beaches, Bath Place, Ilfracombe, Devon, EX34 8AN

Telephone: 01271 879882

Tunnel Beaches

The Tunnels are passages which pass through the cliff's to a private beach. although the Tunnels are a bit dated and were extremely popular in the Victorian era, they are making a comeback with the improvements being made to Ilfracombe.

The Victorians built a wall between the rocks which constructed 2 separate bathing pools, one for Ladies and another Gentlemen.

Ilfracombe Attractions - The Ilfracombe Princess

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Ilfracombe Princess, 1 Pier Kiosk, The Quay, Ilfracombe, Devon, EX34 9EQ

Telephone: 01271 879727

For wildlife coastal cruises to see seals, wild Dolphins and other wildlife along the amazing coast line of North Devon. The Princess is one of the most advanced passenger vessels in the UK - carrying 100 passengers per trip there is plenty of room for everyone.

Although i have seen 2 types of cruise available, Exmoor/Waterfall Cruise and The Sammy the Seal Cruise, i have only ever experienced the Sammy Seal cruise which takes you most of the way to Woolacombe. this is an ideal opportunity to see Lee Bay from the see and also get a view of Bull Point lighthouse from a fisherman's point of view.

Where is Lundy Island Located?

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Lundy Island is located within the Bristol Channel. The island is less than a 2 hour boat journey from the main land. Lundy island rises approximately 400 feet out of the Bristol Channel around 11 miles off Hartland Point on the North Devon coast. Whilst the top is reasonably flat, it has very steep sides. The west side of the island is exposed to the Atlantic Ocean.

There are sailings to the island from Ilfracombe and Bideford every Tuesday and Thursday.

Ilfracombe Museum

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Ilfracombe Museum, Wilder Road, Ilfracombe, Devon, EX34 8AF

Telephone: 01271 863541

Ilfracombe Museum boasts a collection of over 20,000 items of natural history. These include maritime, archeology, paintings and photo's.

The museum also has a brass rubbing centre for you to enjoy.

Combe Martin Museum

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Combe Martin Museum, Eberleigh House, Cross Street, Combe Martin, Devon, EX34 ODH

Telephone: 01271 889031

A Fabulous museum which illustrates Combe Martin's history. exhibition includes artifacts, photographs, maps and pictures of the old village industries.

Places to eat in the Bay

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There are so many places to eat in the village and to be fair i think i have tried them all! For the view and the ambiance of the village it's a must for The Red Barn. Many moons ago The Red Barn was a big cafe complete with an American style cafeteria food selection bar. It had a long running metal shelf for your tray to slide along helping yourself to plates of food behind plastic doors, whilst ordering hot food separately and finally paying at the end of the tray trail. You then took your seat at the typical plastic chairs lined along the tables! compared with what it's like today it's a complete world away!

The Tides Inn, Beach Road, Woolacombe, EX34 7BP

The Tides is another one of the newer restaurants to the village. Probably in their third season now it is still consistently high quality food. The menu is quite vast and has a lot to offer. The chips are chip shop chips and the portion size is huge! The Tides also has an outside space which offers views across the bay. I would suggest trying Eton Mess from the pudding menu, it takes a little while to come but it's worth the wait! say no more...

Bar Electric, Beach Road, Woolacombe, EX34 7BP

Bar Electric is a new bar/restaurant to the bay. Established over the last couple of years the bar does have quite a relaxing atmosphere. The menu had changed last year to the previous year and i have to say not for the better. I had spent the winter season looking forward to the following Easter's duck curry only to find that the chef had left and the menu had been changed - very disappointed, no duck curry! Still the bar remains a favourite of mine as the wall outside is heated and you can sit for hours without getting too cold. A definite visit required.

Sophia's Bistro and Tapas Bar, 2 South Street, Woolacombe, EX34 7BB

Sophia's is a really nice tapas bar. I have been 3 or 4 times and have never been disappointed. The restaurant is family run and they are very happy to accommodate fussy eaters (me). The restaurant is quite small, however, they do stay open later than 2100 which is quite unique as most places close by 2100 in the village.

The Boardwalk, The Esplanade, Woolacombe, EX34 7BP

The Boardwalk is not somewhere that i have eaten for sometime. When the restaurant first opened many years ago it offered a really nice Italian menu but this was changed after a season or 2. Without giving the restaurant a bad review as i believe everyone should be their own judge, however, i haven't eaten at the Boardwalk after a bad experience. I do believe that since then the restaurant has changed hands it deserves a second chance.

The Brasserie, Woolacombe Bay Hotel, Woolacombe, EX34 7BN
The Brasserie is that main restaurant attached to the Woolacombe Bay Hotel, previously known as Maxwell's Bistro. Having dined at The Brasserie i can recommend a visit. The Restaurant is more formal than that of The Red Barn for The Tides but you can still visit comfortably in smart casual wear. The menu offers something more than just 'something and chips' although they do offer 2 types of chip in chunky and french! When you have finished dining you can also take a look around the hotel should you feel like a snoop!

The Court Yard, South Street, Woolacombe, EX34 7BW
The Courtyard is a large restaurant formally called The Stables. As The Courtyard the restaurant offers a more formal menu which is a little bit on the expensive side depending on type of meal you are after, at roughly £7 for a starter, £15 for a main course and £7 for desert it puts The Courtyard at the higher end of the spectrum in terms of cost, however, in terms of food like The Brasserie you are getting more than the usual selection. I think The Courtyard is definitely more directed at the couples than the families but i still think it's worth a visit.

MacDonald's Fish & Chips Shop, 1 Barton Road, Woolacombe, EX34 7BA
The main chippie in Woolacombe is extremely busy because it's great! Selling everything from fish to pizza and children's sized portions it makes this chip shop one of he most busiest places to eat in the village. The food is served in boxes which makes it easier to put your bottom down and have your tea overlooking the sea - perfect!

Rockham Bay

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At the end of Mortehoe village just opposite the footpath to Rockham Bay is North Morte Well. This is attractive as it is set in a wall of natural stone, it is now used as a wishing well.

The walk to Rockham Bay is recommended as it is secluded and quiet although the steps the beach are quite steep. There are plenty or rock pools to be explored and makes much fun for hours for kids.

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From Rockham Bay you can take a walk along the coastal path to Morte Point. The path runs at a low level around the headland and as you reach the tip there are some great views towards Woolacombe and Baggy Point, if you are lucky you may even be able to spot the seals in the sea.

Off the coast of Rockham Bay many ships have been shipwrecked on the jagged rocks. During the winter of 1852 five ships were lost.

Where is Ilfracombe Located?

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Ilfracombe is situated amongst cliffs of the Atlantic Coast, it boasts Tunnel Beaches which is a great place to visit and is a great experience. There are many walks to take on along the coastal paths and excellent views out to sea.

Lynton and Lynmouth Attractions

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The Railway was built to transport passengers and freight between the "sister" villages, first opening in 1890 with a cable pulley and water system operating the railway. The Railway is still in use today and tourists can purchase single and return tickets. For those who are up for the challenge buy a single ticket and take the walk back down, you wont regret it as the views are just stunning.

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Once you reach the bottom and you have worked up an appetite you must try the Fish & Chips on the front along from the Railway.

The Flood

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On the night of the 15 August 1952, a storm broke over South-West England, depositing 9.0in of rain within 24 hours on an already waterlogged Exmoor. Floodwaters filled with rocks and boulders cascaded down the northern face of the moor, converging upon the village of Lynmouth; in particular, in the upper West Lyn valley.

Overnight, over 100 buildings were destroyed or seriously damaged along with 28 of the 31 bridges, and 38 cars were washed out to sea. In total, 34 people died, with a further 420 made homeless.

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Today the village hosts a Museum dedicated to those who lost their lives and is free to the public to enter. You can leave donations to the fund as you leave the Museum. The Museum is incredibly moving and has a scaled sized model in the middle showing the village and the flood. It also lists every name of the people who lost their lives in the flood and those who were hurt or lost loved ones. Another sign that the flood of 1952 has not been forgotten is a jet of water at the start of the Glen Lyn Gorge which shoots high in to the air simulating the height of where the water level reached at its peak during the flood.

Barricane Beach

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At low tide a walk along the Beach to Barricane Beach is recommended as it has many rock pools for hours of entertainment for the kids to explore. Great fun can be had also climbing the rocks whilst the tide is out.

You will also find a cafe/hut to enjoy a cup of tea in a mug!! as well as snacks to keep you going whilst enjoying hours of fun.

Where is Clovelly Located?

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Clovelly is a tiny fishing village which hangs on a 400ft cliff 5 minutes drive from the main road from Bideford to Bude.

In 1738 the Clovelly estate was acquired by the Hamlyn family since then Hamlyn and Clovelly have been synonymous with the ownership of the estate still being in the family.

The preservation of the village is largely due to Christine Hamlyn who dedicated herself to the renovation of the ancient cottages. If you look at some of the structures in the village you can see her initials CH carved in the stone.

Where is Combe Martin located?

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Combe Martin is a village on the North Devon coast and is east of Ilfracombe. It has a sheltered cove on the edge of Exmoor National Park. The village is mainly on single street which is about one and a half miles long.

Woolacombe Attractions

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Woolacombe Sandcastle Competition

Around the beginning of July Woolacombe plays host to a very special sandcastle competition. The beach becomes a hive of entertainment including music supplied by the local radio station 'Lantern FM'

This event is well worth a look just to see how truly amazing it is that such sculptures can be made out of just sand.

Below are the examples of what you can expect to see if you are planning on taking the trip.

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For more Sandcastle Pictures visit the North Devon Gallery

Where is Woolacombe located?

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Woolacombe sits at the end of a valley that winds down to the coast, it is up to a mile long it is a Southwest facing bay full of sand, it is sandwiched between Baggy Point and Morte Point.

Directions to Woolacombe

From the M5 take Junction 27 and follow the A361 towards Barnstaple.

When you reach a mini roundabout just outside the village of Barnstaple turn left onto the A39.

At the second roundabout turn right and follow the link road in the direction of Ilfracombe. At the lights at the top of the link road turn left. Follow this road all the way through the villages of Knowle and Braunton

Continue to follow the A361 until you reach a large roundabout called Mullacott Cross. Turn left at the roundabout onto the B3343 ad follow continuously until you reach the village of Woolacombe

Where is Lee Bay Located?

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Lee Bay is located 2 miles to the SW of Ilfracombe. Lee Bay is situated in a deep combe and is heavily wooded in places. Lee is often referred to as the 'Fuschia Valley' during the flowering seasons.

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I discovered Lee Bay and its charms late into my numerous visits to North Devon. Having visited most places in the surrounding area, Lee had managed to escape me although it was a favorite with my parents who often recounted stories of how beautiful it was. Therefore, one day, off i went to discover a place so beautifully hidden at the bottom of a very picturesque drive along a country lane which is lined with a number of lovely cottages.

For me the Bay is just amazing, when visiting at low tide the rock pools and stream make hours of endless fun to explore.

Clovelly Attractions

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The village of Clovelly remains traffic free, the cobbled 400ft main street leads down to the tiny harbour and lifeboat station. Having walked up and down the cobbles on a number of occasions i would recommend stopping half way to have a look around Author - Charles Kingsley's house. Kinglsey grew up in Clovelly as his father was the local rector. Kingsley wrote both 'The Water Babies' and 'Westward Ho' whilst living in Clovelly and copies of the book can be bought from the cottage where he once lived.

As steep as Main Street is, it's great to walk down but quite a trek to walk up so it's a good thing that there is a Land Rover on offer for a small price to take you back up to the visitor's centre and car park.

Whilst in the the beautiful harbour take the time to grab a refreshment from the the Red Lion - an activity that would always be the reward for walking down all those cobbles.

A treat is to see the Donkeys which have for many years been used to ferry goods up and down the cobbles to the harbour. The Donkeys would carry everything from rubbish bags to food to visitors luggage. During the Summer Clovelly's Donkeys offer rides to the children around their meadow.

On a clear night Clovelly lights can be seen shining in the distance from as far as Woolacombe.

It has been some years since i have been to Clovelly, however, on my next trip to North Devon in July i think i will indulge and take a trip and visit this charming village.

Croyde Attractions

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The village has several campsites which are quite small, also there is a Holiday park. Over recent years it has attracted the younger people due to the surfing conditions. Croyde Hosts an annual surfing and musical festival called Goldcoast Oceanfest on the weekend closest to the summer solstice.

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The village located direclty next to Croyde is Georgeham. This is a small village, very picturesque and sits between Croyde and Woolacombe Sands. The vilage at times can be a bit daring when two cars are travelling in the opposite direction and even worse when met by a horse and cart! I would suggest to anyone travelling through the village that you drive carfully and respecting observing the speed limit at all times.

In the summer season you will find an outdoor market each Tuesday which is located on Moor Lane in a field.

Croyde Beach stands in a sheltered bay and is an amazing 800 metre sandy beach. Croyde is known for surfing the rides are mostly short as the waves tend to pitch up and break quickly.

The shape of the bay funnels waves towards the beach. Rip currents are extremely strong especially near the rocks at either end of the beach due to the steepness of the beach. Croyde is an amazing beach and a visit is definately advised as the sand runs for miles.

Where is Mortehoe Located?

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Mortehoe is located on the North Devon coast between the villages of Woolacombe and Lee. It is a picturesque village with some great history, a visit to the heritage centre is something you should do. I would suggest you take the walk to Morte Point and take in the excellent views. The village of Mortehoe also has an amazing old church St Mary's.

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