Explore North Devon
Step into North Devon where you'll find Tarka Country, little changed since Henry Williamson wrote his famous novel, Tarka the Otter.
Having been named as the UK's First Surf Reserve, North Devon is a haven for watersports enthusiasts and wherever you go, you'll find surf boards for sale and hire and plenty of tuition and sessions on offer across the coast. It isn't all about surfing though, the region is full of golden sandy beaches perfect for rock-pooling, swimming and relaxing against dramatic coastlines, rugged moors and verdant valleys, all of which demand to be explored. That combined with amazing attractions, great local food and drink and a wealth of cultural experiences are what you can discover in North Devon.
When asked what they love about North Devon, everyone's answer is different. One thing is constant though: it's the perfect playground for doing what you love. Be it spending time with the family, walking the dog, eating out or celebrating with friends, to the people that live here, and visit here, North Devon really is the perfect place.
Rolling hills, lush valleys and miles of patchwork farmland
Made famous by Henry Williamson's book Tarka the Otter, the Tarka Trail is now a180 mile path with 32 miles of off road cycleway, allowing you to easily explore some of the biggest and best loved towns and villages in North Devon. Sitting in the centre of Tarka Country is Barnstaple, North Devon's oldest and largest town. Home of the historic Pannier Market and full of theatres, pubs, restaurants and shopping opportunities. Like many places in North Devon, Barnstaple, along with places like Great Torrington played an important part in the English Civil War and you can still find evidence of this in the buildings and museums around the Tarka Trail.
Another area to explore is known as Ruby Country, full of rolling hills and farmland, perfect for a farm stay and a great destination for anyone who loves sustainable and flavourful food and drink. In the heart of Ruby Country is Holsworthy which boasts one of the busiest and largest livestock and pannier markets in the country. The pretty town square comes alive every Wednesday as visitors enjoy mingling with local people and farmers.
A magnet for cyclists, rambers and a gateway for activity
For those of you who love adventre, make Bideford your base. Not only will you have the very best in pubs, music and restaurants to satisfy every palate, but you'll be able to easily access the coastline and the region's best loved attractions. Bideford is the perfect place for a spot of retail therapy, with dozens of independent retailers, craft and antique shops. From here you can easily visit the family friendly Westward Ho! The beach is fronted by a 2 mile long sandy beach, and backed by traditional bucket and spade shops, tea rooms and restaurants. Westward Ho! is a fascinating place, it was created and named from a book by local author Charles Kingsley and remains the only place in the UK with ! in its name!
The golden coast, perfect for families and watersports
For an award winning beach, head to Woolacombe, its miles of golden sand are recognised as one of the top ten beaches in the world. It constantly wins accolades like Britain's Best Beach and with miles and miles to enjoy, you can always find the perfect space. Head through Georgeham and you'll find Putsborough, with great facilities, and a beach cafe that serves local produce.
Further around the coast you will discover Croyde, a picturesque village dotted with thatched cottages and one of the region's best beaches, the perfect place for families and surfers alike. Each year, Woolacombe and Croyde play host to several surfing competitions and every June, to Oceanfest, a 3 day surfing and music festival. Nearby Braunton is the gateway to the Golden Coast, packed with delicatessans, gift, craft and surf shops, the area makes an excellent base for your beach holiday and the breathtaking Saunton Sands is one of the great jewels in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and has been used as a location for many film, video and television productions.
Peace, tranquillity and breathtaking views
On the western tip of North Devon you'll find Hartland with some of the most stunning coastal scenery in Britain. Hartland is the perfect retreat for those wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Further along the coast you will find historic Clovelly, untouched for centuries its cobbled streets and flower strewn cottages tumble down 400 feet to a 14th century fishing harbour.
Seaside fun and centuries of heritage and tradition
Seekers of curious coastal charm will adore Ilfracombe. History is everywhere, from grand Victorian hotels to the old working harbour boasting some of North Devon's best restaurants and cafes. Culture abounds with the Landmark Theatre, catch a show and you could be anywhere, but step out onto the balcony at the interval and you could only be in Ilfracombe.
For children who are intrepid rockpoolers and crabbers, the pretty cove of Hele Bay begs to be explored. Nature lovers, walkers, cyclists and foodies unite in their love of Ilfracombe as the perfect place for exploring North Devon.
Valleys, waterfalls, pathways and secret coves
Situated within the designated Natural Landscape (AONB), Combe Martin and its neighbour Berrynarbour and simply beautiful.
With the longest street of any village in the UK, Combe Martin sits at the very edge of Exmoor, surrounded by amazing coastal views, medieval field patterns, and bathed in a history of silver and tin mining. Overlooking the sheltered Watermouth Cove you'll discover Berrynarbour. With its quaint houses and floral displays you'll discover first hand why Beatrix Potter found the area the perfect place for inspiration.
Our Highlights...
North Devon Events
Annual Schools Exhibition
The Annual Schools Exhibition returns, nurturing and celebrating our artists of the future and…
Devon’s Top Attractions - Easter Fun! - Find out what’s on and where across Devon!
The Easter school holidays is a great time to get out and about and have some family fun…
Easter @ Dartington Crystal
Dartington Crystal – An Eggstravaganza This Easter! Looking for family fun this Easter? Dartington…
Easter Adventues at Arlington Court
This spring, treat the whole family to a world of adventure at Arlington Court on an Easter trail…
Easter Afternoon Tea
For just £32.50 per person, you'll enjoy a delightful spread of sweet and savoury treats in…
Easter at Quince Honey Farm
Come along to Quince Honey Farm this Easter and enjoy fun for all the family, including an Easter…
Easter Bunny Hunt
Join in with the Easter fun on Good Friday, 29th March (11am - 4pm) at our famous annual bunny hunt…
Easter Egg Hunt
Embark on a delightful journey through our grounds as we celebrate the joy of Easter with our…
Easter holiday fun at Rosemoor
Enjoy a supersized family adventure at Rosemoor this Easter by hunting down the larger-than-life…
Easter School Holidays - FUN on the Farm
We have 2 weeks of non-stop fun with hilarious shows, our world-famous Sheep Race, thrilling rides…
Find the Easter Chicks
Children receive a village map on entry to Clovelly. This is to mark the location of a number of…
Friends Annual Open Exhibition
This popular annual open-submission exhibition is open to local artists – both amateur and…
Navigation skills and Training
This course is great for people who'd like to learn the skills to become a competent navigator…
Unique Easter Grotto at The Milky Way
Ever wondered where the Easter Bunny's magic is made? Get ready for a memorable and unique…
Roadford Lake Easter activities programme
Roadford Lake is the perfect place to visit this Easter! Enjoy an unforgettable family adventure…
Easter Fun
Easter Fun and Bluebells – Sunday 31st March and Monday 1st May 2024 WE ARE OPEN ON GOOD FRIDAY TOO…
Easter Lunch
Dive into a delightful Easter celebration at Cellars Pub with our delicious 3-course Easter Lunch…
Easter Craft Egg-stravaganza
Kick off the Easter holidays with the Easter Craft Egg-stravaganza on Tuesday 2nd & Thursday 4th…
Lorna Doone family fun day
Our free family fun days run between 11am and 3pm on Wednesdays during the school holidays. From…
Cheese & Wine Evening
Join Stephen Walker, our head chef, as he guides you through some truly fantastic cheeses of the…
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