Braunton and Saunton
Braunton is the gateway to the northern coast. Its proximity to North Devon’s famous beaches, like those at Saunton Sands and Croyde Bay, is reflected in the surf culture of the town.
Watersports in Saunton
The Braunton and Saunton area are the ideal places for those that love watersports, not only are there the numerous surf shops, where you can hire a board, or join in with an organisation that takes sessions or tours around the coast. You can even discover the roots of the region’s surfing origins at the Museum of British Surfing.
The Biosphere and Natural Landscape (AONB)
Situated in the heart of North Devon’s Natural Landscape (Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty), the village also incorporates Braunton Burrows which comprises of England’s largest sand dune system (a real treat for wildlife enthusiasts) and one of only two surviving examples of medieval open strip farming systems in the country. Braunton village is a great base to explore this amazing part of North Devon, there are lots of places to discover.
The North Devon Biosphere Reserve is one of just 669 biosphere reserves from around the world. It was the first one to be established in the UK, where it now joins six other sites, all of which are ecologically diverse and are designated as sites of significant interest, both scientifically and culturally.
The North Devon Biosphere Reserve is located in one of the prettiest areas of North Devon and not only takes in Braunton and the rich landscape of Braunton Burrows, but also reaches out towards Lundy Island in the Bristol Channel. The sand dune system in the middle of Braunton Burrows makes up the core of the Biosphere and is the largest sand dune system in England.
Saunton Sands beach
Saunton is predominantly famous for its beach, Saunton Sands, which is situated at the heart of the North Devon Biosphere Reserve. As well as being a world-class family beach, with wide open space, toilet and shower facilities and dog-friendly access to boot, Saunton is also renowned for some of the best surf in the country. It’s a great place for beginners to start, with gear hire and lessons easily arranged. Saunton Sands also has access to a Landeez all-terrain wheelchair, allowing everyone to enjoy the beach.
The coast at Saunton also falls into the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty which covers the majority of the coast in this area. You’ll find lots of ways to explore the area via footpaths and cycle trails including the South West Coast Path which goes the length of the Natural Landscape (AONB).
If you’re in the Braunton/Saunton area for longer than a few days, there are weekly parking passes available and you can hire deck chairs, beach huts or even a pedal cart to explore the beaches. Once you’re exhausted from walking, water sports, exploring the Biosphere or the Natural Landscape (AONB) or making sandcastles, stop by one of the many coastal cafes, pubs or restaurants for a scenic drink or bite to eat. These are great venues to watch the sunset and we can guarantee that the sunset is worth stopping to watch.
Our Highlights
Braunton Accessible Bungalow from Saunton Beach Villas
Accessible Holiday Bungalow in Braunton Village, Near Saunton Beach Wheelchair-Friendly…
Conferences at Saunton Sands Hotel
People choose to hold their business events at Saunton Sands Hotel because of the space, freedom and…
Dining at Saunton Sands Hotel
The Dining Room Dining in North Devon doesn’t get better than this. Using only the best local…
Marsdens Devon Cottages
Discover Your Perfect Devon Getaway with Marsdens Devon Cottages Looking for the ultimate escape to…
Source Spa and Wellness at Saunton Sands Hotel
Nowhere else is there a place quite like Source… North Devon’s finest coastal spa will…
Discover the top beaches in North Devon, from surfing hotspots to hidden coves. Plan your perfect coastal escape with our guide to North Devon’s stunning seaside locations.
What's on
'Escape Summer' art exhibition
An art exhibition featuring over 40 original works by north Devon artists and makers
Guess How Much I Love You™ Trail
Included with garden admission; free to RHS Members and children under 5. Children aged…
Into Abstraction: Modern British Art and the Landscape
Our major summer exhibition examines the intersection of abstraction and landscape in British art…
Rails & Dinosaur Scales
Join us for some dinosaur fun at Woody Bay Station! Ruby the Megalosaurus and her adorable baby dino…
Summer of play at Arlington Court
Our Summer of play is back for another year - with a new twist! Visit Olde Arlington, a rambunctious…
The Great Woodland Adventure
Go wild in the woods at RHS Rosemoor who have a tree-mendous programme of activities for the whole…
Flower Printing Workshop
Learn how to preserve the vibrant colours of leaves and flowers by using the 'pound and…
Maritime Festival, in aid of the Mission to Seafarers
Maritime Festival, in aid of the Mission to Seafarers, Sunday 20 July 2025, 10 am to 5 pm The day…
Animal Sculpture Course
The Sculpture School's inspirational instruction will teach you how to create superbly…
Outdoor Summer Concert
Summer Outdoor Concert by Bideford Town Bandon Thursday evenings
Elvis and Dolly Tribute Evening
Elvis and Dolly Tribute Evening with 4 Course Meal for only £39.50pp
Vintage Weekend
Take a break from the stress of modern life and ease yourself into a relaxing weekend of nostalgic…
Silent disco beach cleans at Woolacombe
Looking for something different to do with the family? Join us for our monthly silent disco beach…
Woolsery Agricultural Show, in aid of local charities
Woolsery Agricultural Show, in aid of local charities, Monday 28 July 2025, 08:00 am to 5 pm A…
The Mole Farmyard
We're thrilled to welcome back the Comeby mobile farm every Tuesday during the Summer holiday…
Family fun days at Lorna Doone Valley
Join us for free family fun days during school holidays, running from 11am to 3pm. Enjoy a day of…
Gig Regatta
Gig Regatta, Saturday 2 August 2025, 10 am to 5 pm It celebrates Devon's best teams going…
Lee Arts and Crafts Fair
Local art and crafts exhibition
Littleham Village Garden Trail
Garden Trail
Luke Combs UK
Luke Combs UK, the worlds leading tribute to Luke Combs and is endorsed by the man himself! The…