You are here > Explore > Villages & Towns > Ilfracombe
Explore North Devon
Stay
What's On in North Devon
Welcome to the Itinerary Planner. Use this tool to build your own journey or choose from an exciting range of specially selected tours.
To build your own Itinerary, click to add an item to your Itinerary basket.
You are here > Explore > Villages & Towns > Ilfracombe
Situated in the beautiful North Devon and minutes from the centre of the lovely harbour town of…
Ilfracombe’s reputation as the culinary and cultural hub of North Devon has been steadily growing for the past few years, with many visitors referring to it as the new St. Ives.
As well as being a haven for foodies, the town is home to a host of world famous attractions including the world famous aquarium and the unique Tunnel Beaches, as well as Damien Hirst’s sculpture, Verity.
Ilfracombe has been popular with holiday makers since the 1800s thanks to its stunning coastline, where you’ll find a host of award-winning sandy beaches and unique attractions. The town is surrounded by beaches, making it the ideal location for anyone looking for a beach holiday. On one side there is Wildersmouth Beach which you can access via the South West Coast Path, as well as Rapparee Cove and Hele Cove, which are smaller, secluded areas ideal for rock pooling.
The Tunnels Beaches is one of the most famous beaches in the area and also double as a wedding venue and a heritage attraction. Hand carved in the 1820s, these tunnels are a unique look at the town’s Victorian history.
The installation of the four tunnels are what transformed this fishing town into a popular seaside resort without sacrificing Victorian etiquette. The tunnels were how men, women, girls and boys were segregated on their way to the beach. Once you’ve made your way through the historic tunnels, you will find yourself on a unique and stunning, secluded beach. It’s no wonder that this area has become a premium wedding location in Ilfracombe, the rugged coastline makes for an incredible backdrop to wedding photos! Even if you aren’t getting married, it is a wonderful place to spend a few hours learning about the town’s heritage and taking in the sights.
Aside from the beach, Ilfracombe is full of family friendly attractions and activities from the Aquarium in the harbour to Watermouth Castle and theme park, which combines the remains of a Victorian era castle with a theme park and gorgeous landscaped gardens. Arts and crafts are also popular in Ilfracombe with regular events and galleries dotted around the town, perfect for those that love the arts. The annual Arts Trail is hugely popular and draws in huge crowds every year, so make sure to add the dates to your diary! For other creative entertainment, check out the programme at Ilfracombe’s Landmark Theatre, ranging from vintage festivals to internationally acclaimed music, drama and comedies.
Another reason why Ilfracombe is known all over the world is because it is home to renowned artist Damien Hirst’s famous 20m high sculpture
Whether you love her or hate her, Verity is hard to miss. You’ll find her at the pier overlooking the Bristol Channel towards Wales. The statue is of a pregnant woman holding a sword and a set of scales while standing on a pile of books. Half the statue shows the woman’s insides with the foetus on full show, Damien Hirst described the statue as being a modern allegory of truth and justice and whether you like it or not, no trip to Ilfracombe would be complete without paying her a visit.
If you’re someone looking for a foodie break, head for Fore Street where you’ll find Ilfracombe’s gastronomic hub. Many of the town’s restaurants and other eateries can be found here and there are a whole load of other high quality menus featuring seasonal, local produce around the harbour. The town has some incredible views which makes it the perfect place for fine dining, particularly if you time it right so you catch a sunset right as your dinner is being served.
Being one of the most historic harbours and a popular fishing points in the north of the county, Ilfracombe has an abundance of wonderful seafood menus, if you’re not a fan of seafood, don’t worry, there are a whole range of culinary delights to choose from in this charming seaside town.
Number of results: 220
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Ilfracombe
Quirky beach huts, private hot tubs and stunning coastal views await you at a resort which has well and truly established itself as the romance capital of North Devon.
…
Barnstaple
At the Royal & Fortescue Hotel, you have the choice between elegant dining in the Lord Fortescue Restaurant or the bistro, 62 The Bank. The Lord Fortescue offers first class…
Barnstaple
Set right by the lounges of the Royal & Fortescue Hotel, their Coffee House is a delightful place to take some precious time out to relax. Be tempted by the array of cup…
Barnstaple
62 The Bank and Bar 62 are passionate about delivering friendly, honest and efficient service, with a vibrant atmosphere, in unique surroundings, and a menu that offers…
Braunton
Famous throughout the West Country for our Award-Winning ' Fish and Chips'. Rick Stein Recommended. Varied Menu including Home-made Burgers Poached Fish and Vegetarian meals.…
Braunton
Marsdens Devon Cottages is one of over 30 truly-local brands bough together by Original Cottages - the UK’s leading, independent, family-owned, holiday-lettings company.
…
Barnstaple
Their mouth watering menus are complemented by personal attentive service and the impressive surroundings. The Lord Fortescue, and every lunch time, as well as Saturday and…
Barnstaple
At the 4 Star Imperial Hotel, you can choose where you dine. Take your pick from the Arlington Restaurants, a fine dining experience with outstanding cuisine in elegant and…
Bideford
Braddicks Holiday Centre is an award-winning, self-catering Holiday Park in Westward Ho!, North Devon, set beside an award-winning beach. From this base you can explore a…
Barnstaple
Why You'll Love Tarka Holiday Park
Rural countryside location on the famous Tarka trail
Peaceful and tranquil setting
The perfect base to discover North…
Clovelly, Bideford
A lovely AA 4 star inn, built in the 18th century. It lies astride the 14th century quay with commanding views in every direction. It was originally a beer house for…
Bideford
The beautiful Regency Restaurant has a long tradition of hosting the very best fine dining in Bideford. You will love the special atmosphere created by the stylish decor and…
Barnstaple
Don’t miss out on mouth-watering cuisine and a choice of luxurious places to eat while in Barnstaple.
At the Barnstaple Hotel, we know we’re one of the best places to…
Woolacombe
Welcome to Hidden Valley, an award-winning campsite and touring caravan park in the rolling hills of north Devon. This site is open all year and Hidden Valley Touring Caravan…
Great Torrington, Torrington
All RHS Gardens, Rosemoor included, have introduced safety measures:
Strictly limited numbers of pre-booked tickets available for each day
Restrictions on the…
Bideford
This spacious campsite is located in the gorgeous coastal North Devon countryside, close to the Cornwall border and the South West Coast Path. It’s perfect for families and…
Bideford
Clovelly, North Devon. Welcome to a different world
The picturesque, ancient, fishing village of Clovelly is uniquely special and was once owned by the Queen of…
Saunton, Braunton
The Dining Room
The Dining Room at Saunton with its AA-rosette status and enviable views of miles of world biosphere dunes and beach, is oozing art deco glamour. Open…
Saunton, Braunton
The Beachside Grill is the sister café to the Saunton Sands Hotel, find it overlooking North Devon’s famous Saunton beach next to the beautiful Saunton Sands hotel. The grill…
Escape to the wild in comfort and luxury on your glamping adventure. Choose the perfect retreat for exploring North Devon’s coastline and countryside. Watch the twinkle of…
© Visit Devon Community Interest Company