Combe Martin

Nestled between Exmoor and North Devon is the delightful village of Combe Martin allowing you the best of both worlds, with the scenic countryside of the Exmoor National Park on one side and the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to the other. Whichever way you look you are awarded outstanding views, from the bay and it’s dramatic coastline to the wide expanse of the national park. Despite gaining popularity as a tourist hot spot, Combe Martin has remained largely unchanged with its spectacular and peaceful cove and picturesque harbour.

Walk the coast from Combe Martin

The famous south west coast path runs through the village linking up with other areas across the south west. Other walking trails can be found in and around the village with some of the best walking trails and coastal paths easily accessible from the accommodation around the village. There are also a number of beautiful gardens and parks in the vicinity that are perfect for a stroll or to stop off for a picnic. Fans of walking will also want to explore the village as Combe Martin claims to have the longest main street of any village in the country, the street is more than two miles long so this may well be the case!

The coast

Combe Martin’s beach has some of the best rock pools in this area of Devon and there are a lot of things to do along the seafront with businesses hiring everything from kayaks to paddleboards. It is also a popular spot for fishing and sailing as well as relaxing on the sand. Budding photographers will love the picturesque scenery of the coastline in Combe Martin, especially from the high points of the Little Hangman and the Great Hangman which offer incredible views across the moor and the coast.

Things to do

For such a small area, there are loads of top attractions and things to do in Combe Martin. From the various museums exploring the region’s heritage to the abundance of sport and outdoor activities. Combe Martin is also ideally placed for anyone who wants to explore the wider region with Ilfracombe, another popular resort for families and holiday makers, nearby.

Families will love the atmosphere in Combe Martin and with the range of family friendly attractions, will have ample things to keep the children entertained. The Wildlife and Dinosaur Park is a popular location, not only dedicated to teaching visitors about the village’s history dating back to Jurassic times, but also houses a number of exotic animals to help you learn more about the modern natural world. Animals can also be seen at the nearby Exmoor Zoo and those staying in Combe Martin can make use of the village’s proximity to the number of attractions that can be found on the outskirts towards Ilfracombe and beyond. As well as these attractions, visitors can learn more about the village’s traditional industry of silver and lead mining, with several of the mines being preserved and serving as museums.

Another attraction is the village pub, the Pack of Cards Inn which was built in 1626, the building is said to resemble a pack of cards in a heap and has 52 windows, one for each card in the pack, four floors, one for each suit and 13 doors on each floor, one for each card in the suit. It is said to have been built to celebrate a win at a card game and is popular among visitors.
The Exmoor National Park borders the village offering plenty of opportunities to get back to nature and catch sight of the famous Exmoor ponies while the coastline is full of secret inlets, caves and secluded beaches giving you the chance to discover some real hidden gems.

As well as celebrating history with its many museums, Combe Martin has its own quirks and heritage celebrations. The village still participates in a traditional ceremony known as the Hunting of the Earl of Rone, a Pagan festival which takes place in the spring.