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Before searching for the perfect North Devon holiday cottage, it’s worth reflecting on why this slice of the Devon coast attracts visitors throughout the year. From craggy wave-battered cliffs to sprawling dune-backed sandy beaches, it’s the ultimate playground, and a thing of beauty!
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A local’s guide to North Devon holidays…
Things to do in North Devon
From boat-based sea safaris in Ilfracombe to coasteering in Croyde, North Devon’s landscape is made for getting out and exploring, but there’s much more to discover here than its beaches and countryside. Its towns and villages are full of independent shops, local makers, galleries, museums, historic buildings and great places to eat, while the coastline is dotted with some truly special spots.
From Woolacombe Bay and Braunton Burrows to the cliffs and coves around Combe Martin, there’s plenty to keep you busy outdoors, whether you’re surfing, walking, cycling or exploring with the family. Add in wide sandy beaches, sweeping headlands, sand dunes, sheltered bays and the wild landscapes of Exmoor, and you’ve got a part of Devon that’s easy to spend a whole holiday exploring.
There’s the fascinating Lundy Island (Britain’s very own Galapagos) to visit too which can be reached by a ferry hop over from either Bideford or Ilfracombe. This tiny, remote 3 mile long isle lying just 11 miles off the coast is a haven for a variety of sea birds and wildlife including puffins and Manx Shearwaters as well as deer and bats, and is a wonderful glimpse into an unspoiled lansdscape.
Home to world-class surfing beaches like Croyde and Saunton Bay as well as the famous Tarka Trail, holidays in North Devon can be as action-packed and energetic as desired, but for the less adrenalin-driven there’s also plenty to discover.
Beaches in North Devon
Heading to the beach is one of the best things about a North Devon holiday, and this county’s sandy stretches offer something for everyone. Surfers can head to Croyde Bay, Woolacombe and Saunton Sands, while the calmer waters at Westward Ho! are perfect for younger visitors.
You can find local surf schools and equipment hire from Woolacombe Surf Centre, North Devon Surf School and Surf South West.
If you’re planning plenty of time on the sand, Devon Beach Kits are a brilliant way to make things easier. They deliver beach kits directly to your holiday home, packed with everything you need for a day at the beach, and collect them when you leave. So there’s no need to cram the car with beach chairs, windbreaks and all the other essentials – just pick up your kit and head to the coast.
Restaurants in North Devon
North Devon is a great place to eat, with plenty of choice from good old-fashioned pubs and relaxed cafés to excellent restaurants making the most of the produce from the coast and surrounding countryside. Seafood features heavily, as you’d expect, alongside local meat, seasonal vegetables and plenty of Devon produce. And for those evenings when all you fancy is a proper pub, there are plenty of welcoming village inns and coastal pubs where you can settle in for good food and a pint after a day exploring.
FAQ’s about North Devon
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What are the best coastal towns in North Devon?
Some of the best-known and most picturesque North Devon seaside towns and villages include places like Clovelly, Instow and Appledore.
Others like Lynton and Lynmouth with their rugged surrounding landscapes lie on the coastal edge of Exmoor, while lesser-know Mortehoe (one of our favourites) perches in solitude on a clifftop within just a short distance of Grunta and Combesgate beaches.
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Does North Devon have a steam train?
Yes and it’s a stunner. Lynton and Barnstaple Railway is in the process of restoring its entire original line and visitors can now board a restored heritage carriages at the Woody Bay Station and travel the 25 minute journey to Killington Lane and back on a two-mile round trip behind a narrow-gauge steam locomotive.
The station’s tearoom is a delightful way to wrap up the adventure with a cream tea of cakes and warm scones.
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Are there any good walks in the area?
Wander along the South West Coast Path past hidden coves or seal strewn rocky outcrops and witness some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in southern England.
The route from Baggy Point is particularly good and takes in incredible coastal views towards Bideford Bay and Hartland. Children will love the whale bones and the old wreck post, and it’s an easy walk that can be enjoyed by the whole family both young and old.
There’s also the must-do 180 mile figure of eight Tarka Trail whose route traverses unspoiled countryside, dramatic sea cliffs and beautiful beaches. Made famous by the novel ‘Tarka the Otter’ it is a great way to enjoy North Devon by bike as well.
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Where can I go to avoid the crowds?
A hidden gem that forms part of the Braunton Burrows nature reserve, Crow Point is a peninsula that extends into the Taw & Torridge estuary.
It is a vast expanse of sand, sea, dunes and has incredible views toward Instow and Appledore or Barnstaple (depending on which side you’re on). It’s perfect for children (and dogs) to run free, and is home to many types of sea and estuary birds.
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What family attractions are there?
Besides its world famous beaches and incredible outdoorsy lifestyle, North Devon boasts a handful of excellent family-friendly theme parks that are perfect for days out with the kids.
The Big Sheep in Bideford is not only home to hundreds of farm animals but also has rollercoasters, tractor rides, electric quad bikes and pedalos.
Also in Bideford you’ll find Milky Way Adventure Park which has several indoor play areas, a gravity rider slide, maze and fantastic outdoor displays from its Bird of Prey Centre!
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