Museums, History & Heritage in North Devon

From connections to the second world war to being the set of a variety of films, North Devon has a fascinating heritage.

Museums and more

Delve into its past at any of the local museums, many of which are free to enter. In North Devon you can find a whole host of museums with displays across a range of different subjects, including pirates, maritime history and even modern history! 

Exmoor has a long history, with fascinating links back to the Iron Age and earlier, everywhere you look there are hints of North Devon's history, so if museums aren't your bag, you can still immerse yourself in the region's history just by heading outside!

Another great place for history is the village of Clovelly, an ancient fishing village that was once owned by British royalty and is completely car free! 

Pirates, me hearties!

North Devon has a long history of pirates, thanks to it's maritime connections. In Appledore you'll find a museum dedicated to pirates and Lundy Island, just off the coast was once home to many a local pirate. There are even festivals that take place throughout the year teaching you more about this nefarious part of the region's heritage. 

Victorian archetecture

One of North Devon's most picturesque tourist spots is the Tunnels Beaches in Ilfracombe, which is a feat of Victorian engineering and these days is often host to weddings because of its stunning scenery. You can also find remains of Victorian holiday resorts at a number of popular places around the county, particularly in places like Ilfracombe and Westward Ho! There is even a Victorian steam railway!

Immerse yourself in history 

Discover the captivating world of barometers or travel back in time to the age of steam, whatever era you want to escape to, you’ll find the area steeped in history.