Planning a trip to North Devon over Whit Week or later in the year? No doubt you already have an idea of how you want to spend your time, but if you’re not sure or you have some gaps in your itinerary, here are some suggestions of absolute must-do things you need to factor into your trip.
Go see the mountain goats
No, not the band, an actual herd of mountain goats! It isn’t just ponies you can find while exploring Exmoor, if you head to Valley of Rocks near Lynton and Lynmouth, you’ll find a herd of wild mountain goats roaming around the rocks. Aside from it being a lovely place for walks, a great photo spot and generally being very picturesque, spending a day spotting the goats makes for a free day out that you can turn into a game for the younger members of your group.
Head to Lundy Island
Whether you want to catch the ferry from Bideford or Ilfracombe, it’s easy to get to Lundy Island – you can even book to stay overnight if you can cope being away from electricity and the internet for that long! Lundy Island is a marine conservation area and is managed by both the Landmark Trust and the National Trust and is home to the southwest’s biggest population of puffins! It’s also a haven for the active, with mountain climbing, snorkelling and a host of other activities available.
Follow in the footsteps of Tarka the Otter
As arguably the most famous otter to come out of the UK, references to Tarka the Otter can be found all over North Devon. You can even follow in his footsteps by heading to the Tarka Trail, a 180 mile loop that takes you all around some of the most picturesque places in the region. You can either jump on your bikes or explore on foot and you can pick which bits of the trail you follow.
Discover Little Thailand
Ok, so if you’ve been to Thailand you might not see the comparison as being fair, but Broadsands Beach near Combe Martin is known locally as Little Thailand because it is pretty, secluded and is only visible at low tide. The best way to get there is by surfing or paddleboarding from Combe Martin beach and is a must for anyone who wants to experience the North Devon that locals do.
Looking for more inspiration for your trip to North Devon?
Find it below.
