Appledore, North Devon
Tucked where the rivers Taw and Torridge meet before flowing into the Atlantic, Appledore is one of North Devon's most enchanting villages. With its maze of narrow cobbled lanes, pastel-painted fishermen's cottages and a working harbour backed by water on three sides, this is a place that rewards slow exploration.
Beloved by visitors since Victorian times and immortalised by author Charles Kingsley — who lived nearby in Bideford and described it as a "little white fishing village" — Appledore has changed remarkably little in character. It remains a living, breathing community of artists, fishermen and boat builders, with the sea at its heart.
Things to Do in Appledore, Devon
There's more to Appledore than its pretty streets, though wandering them is a pleasure in itself. Here's how to make the most of a visit:
Take the ferry to Instow. A seasonal passenger ferry runs between Appledore Quay and the sandy beach at Instow, making it one of the most scenic — and affordable — day trips in North Devon. Check local notice boards at the quay for seasonal timetables.
Browse independent galleries and craft shops. Appledore has long attracted artists, and the village is dotted with independent studios, galleries and craft outlets selling ceramics, photography, jewellery and furniture. Markets are held regularly throughout the year.
Catch the Appledore Book Festival. Held each autumn, the Appledore Book Festival is one of the South West's most popular literary events, drawing acclaimed authors from across the world for talks, workshops and family activities. Book tickets early — events sell out fast.
Try crabbing and join the regatta. The Appledore-Instow Regatta is a highlight of the summer calendar. Watch gig boat crews race along the quay, try your hand at crabbing off the harbour wall, or join the beach tug-of-war — it's brilliant fun for all the family.
Go fishing or take a boat trip. Sea fishing trips depart from Appledore Quay throughout the season. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a complete beginner, local operators offer guided trips targeting bass, cod, mackerel and more.
Appledore's Maritime History
Shipbuilding has been part of Appledore's identity for centuries. At its peak, the village was one of the most important boatbuilding centres in the South West, and its large covered shipyard — one of the largest in Europe — remains active today, employing many residents.
To understand this heritage, a visit to the North Devon Maritime Museum is essential. Housed in a beautiful Grade II listed Georgian building — once the home of the village's most prominent ship owners — the museum takes visitors through Viking raids on the North Devon coast, WWII beach landings, the golden age of sail and the shipbuilding traditions that shaped this community.
Where to Eat and Drink in Appledore
Appledore punches well above its weight for food. The village's fishing tradition means that freshness is taken seriously — it's not uncommon to find fish and seafood landed just hours before they appear on your plate. Local favourites include salmon, cod, sea bass, cockles and mussels.
The quayside and surrounding streets are lined with cafes, pubs and restaurants catering to all tastes. Whether you're after a hearty pub lunch, a fresh crab sandwich or a proper sit-down dinner with estuary views, you'll find something to suit. Visit Devon's food and drink guide for options near Appledore.
Getting to Appledore and Parking
Appledore sits approximately 3 miles north of Bideford on the A386. By car, follow signs from Bideford town centre. Parking in the village itself is very limited — the main public car park is located on the approach road into the village and fills quickly in summer. Arriving early or visiting mid-week is strongly recommended during peak season.
Bus services connect Appledore to Bideford and Barnstaple.
Beaches Near Appledore
Appledore itself doesn't have a beach, but Westward Ho! is just a short drive or walk away and offers a long sandy beach backed by a dramatic pebble ridge, with the wild Northam Burrows Country Park at one end. RNLI lifeguard cover runs from May to September, and there are toilets, parking and a range of food outlets nearby.
Dogs are welcome at Westward Ho! beach all year at the Northam Burrows end, and across the full beach from October to April. A waymarked path along the South West Coast Path connects Appledore to Westward Ho! on foot — a stunning estuary and coastal walk of around 2.5 miles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Appledore have a beach?
Appledore itself doesn't have a beach but just around the corner is Westward Ho!, where you will find seaside shops, toilets and a range of food outlets, all making it a popular family beach. Made up of a long sandy beach backed by a pebble ridge with Northam Burrows Country Park accessible at one end this beach offers the best of both sand rock pools and nature. RNLI Lifeguard service is available from May to September and the beach is popular with windsurfers surfers and swimmers. Dogs are permitted from October to April on the whole beach and all year round at the Northam Burrows end. There is ample car parking and disabled parking close to the beach.
Learn more about Appledore
Can you walk to Appledore from Westward Ho!?
Yes, there is a waymarked path along the south side of the River Taw estuary using sections of the South West Coast Path that will take you to Westward Ho!
See the routes in North Devon hereHow do I get the ferry from Appledore to Instow?
The seasonal passenger ferry departs from Appledore Quay. Timetables are posted locally at the quay and vary by season. The crossing takes just a few minutes and is a lovely way to visit Instow's sandy beach.
Is Appledore dog friendly?
Yes, Appledore is a dog-friendly village and the surrounding coastal walks are great for dogs. The nearby Westward Ho! beach allows dogs year-round at the Northam Burrows end.
When is the Appledore Book Festival?
The Appledore Book Festival takes place each autumn, typically in October. It features talks and workshops with a wide range of acclaimed national and international authors. Check the official festival website for current dates and tickets.
Is there parking in Appledore?
Parking in the village is very limited. The main public car park is on the approach road into the village. Arriving early — particularly in summer — is highly recommended.
What is Appledore famous for?
Appledore is famous for its maritime heritage and shipbuilding tradition, its colourful harbour-side cottages, the annual Book Festival, and its excellent fresh seafood. The village is also well-known as an artists' community, with galleries, studios and craft markets throughout the year.