If you love being active, North Devon is one of the best places in the UK for outdoor adventure. Whether you're looking to catch your first wave, climb higher, explore the coastline by paddleboard or take on a completely new challenge, you'll find plenty of exciting things to do both on land and at sea.
Watersports and Coastal Adventures
North Devon is famous for its incredible coastline and is home to the UK's first World Surfing Reserve. Beaches including Croyde, Saunton Sands and Woolacombe attract surfers from around the world, while sheltered bays around Combe Martin and Ilfracombe are perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking and coasteering.
Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced watersports enthusiast, you'll find surf schools, guided experiences and equipment hire available across the coast.
For something truly unforgettable, North Devon is one of the few places in the UK where you can swim with seals in their natural environment. Guided wildlife swimming experiences allow you to encounter curious grey seals along the dramatic coastline, creating memories you'll be talking about long after your holiday ends.
You can also enjoy wild swimming, open-water swimming, jet skiing, boat trips and sea safaris, making North Devon a fantastic destination for anyone who loves being on the water.
Outdoor Activities and Adrenaline Adventures
We don't call North Devon England's Adventure Coast for nothing. If you're looking for action-packed days out, you'll find everything from climbing and wakeboarding to high ropes, mountain biking and skiing.
Test yourself at the South West's largest indoor climbing wall near South Molton, take on the inflatable obstacles at North Devon Wake Park near Bideford or enjoy year-round skiing and snowboarding in Barnstaple.
If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, you can explore the countryside on horseback or enjoy a round of golf overlooking some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in England.
Walking, Cycling and Exploring
Some of North Devon's greatest adventures are completely free. You can walk sections of the South West Coast Path, discover hidden coves, explore dramatic cliff-top viewpoints or cycle the famous Tarka Trail through beautiful countryside and estuary landscapes.
The region offers routes for all abilities, whether you're looking for a gentle family walk, a challenging coastal hike or a scenic cycling route. Many trails are dog friendly too, meaning your four-legged companion can join the adventure.
Sports, Fitness and Leisure
If staying active is part of your holiday, North Devon offers a wide range of sports and leisure activities. From fishing lakes and shooting ranges to health clubs, tennis courts and fitness centres, there are opportunities to suit every interest and ability.
Golfers are particularly well catered for, with some of the oldest and most respected links courses in the UK located along the North Devon coast. These championship courses continue to attract players from around the world thanks to their stunning scenery and challenging layouts.
Whether you're chasing adrenaline, exploring the coastline or simply trying something new, North Devon offers outdoor activities and adventure experiences for every age, ability and level of adventure.
