Attractions and Places To See in North Devon - Top 20

North Devon is home to several dramatic natural features. The Valley of Rocks near Lynton is a unique dry valley with steep cliffs and sea views, known for its feral goats. Baggy Point is an impressive headland separating Croyde Bay from Morte Bay, offering fantastic views and opportunities for rock climbing. You can also explore the rugged coastline at Hartland Quay, known for its incredible folded cliffs, or the dramatic scenery of Morte Point.

For a glimpse into history and unique charm, visit Clovelly Village, a picturesque destination with cobbled streets and traditional architecture. The twin towns of Lynton and Lynmouth are connected by the Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway, the world's steepest water-powered funicular. Appledore is a charming fishing village with a rich maritime heritage, while Ilfracombe boasts Victorian-era buildings and attractions like the Tunnels Beaches.

Yes, North Devon offers many family-friendly options. The Valley of Rocks is popular for its unique landscape and feral goats. The Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway provides an exciting ride between the two towns. Beaches like Combe Martin Beach are great for swimming and paddleboarding. Watermouth Castle Theme Park near Combe Martin provides entertainment for all ages, and RHS Garden Rosemoor offers beautiful gardens to explore.

North Devon is famous for its stunning beaches. Woolacombe Beach is a three-mile expanse ideal for swimming and surfing. Saunton Sands is known for its golden sand and impressive dunes. Croyde Bay Beach is a popular surfing spot, and Combe Martin Beach offers a sheltered position perfect for swimming and kayaking. Barricane Beach is another beautiful coastal spot.

North Devon is a fantastic destination for outdoor activities. The North Walk (South West Coast Path) offers an easy-going walk with spectacular views across to Wales and along the Exmoor coast. The Tarka Trail provides 180 miles of flat, traffic-free routes for walking and cycling. For more detailed routes, you can find various options for easy hikes and cycling tours in the region.

Yes, several easy walks are available. The North Walk (South West Coast Path) from Lynton to the Valley of Rocks is considered easy-going. Baggy Point also features an easy access path, allowing people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the coastal views. Watersmeet, managed by the National Trust, offers lovely woodland walks alongside rivers and streams. You can find more options for easy hikes in North Devon.

North Devon is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit often depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for beaches, watersports, and exploring the coastal paths and gardens. Autumn brings stunning foliage to areas like Exmoor National Park. For stargazing, Exmoor's Dark Sky Reserve is particularly impressive on clear nights throughout the year.

North Devon is rich in geological wonders. The Valley of Rocks is noted for its ancient Devonian rocks and periglacial features. Hartland Quay showcases incredible folded cliffs, a result of tectonic plate collisions, making it excellent for geology enthusiasts. Additionally, Tarr Steps on the River Barle is a prehistoric clapper bridge believed to date back to the Bronze Age.

Absolutely. Exmoor National Park is home to diverse wildlife, including red deer and wild ponies. Lundy Island, off the coast, is a haven for wildlife, with puffins and seals often spotted. The Valley of Rocks is famous for its herd of feral goats. Boat trips from Ilfracombe also offer opportunities for wildlife spotting along the coastline.

North Devon offers several cultural venues. The North Devon Maritime Museum in Appledore provides insights into the area's nautical history. The Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon preserves regional history, including pottery and fine art collections. The Burton Art Gallery in Bideford is a vibrant cultural hub with exhibition spaces, and the Landmark Theatre in Ilfracombe and Queens Theatre in Barnstaple host various performances.

Yes, many attractions are close to villages and towns offering amenities. For example, Hunter's Inn is a pub offering facilities, parking, and accommodation. Lynmouth is a great base with access to the inner moor, historic houses, and gardens, and features various facilities. Combe Martin village, near its beach, has many restaurants.

Yes, the Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway is a unique water-powered funicular offering fantastic coastal views. The Lynton & Barnstaple Railway provides scenic train rides in Victorian carriages, offering a nostalgic journey through the landscape. Additionally, the Ilfracombe Princess offers boat trips from Ilfracombe to explore the coastline.

RHS Garden Rosemoor in Torrington is one of four RHS gardens, featuring diverse garden styles and a large woodland area. Clovelly Court Gardens offer a classic example of a Victorian walled kitchen garden, known for its tender and exotic plants. Arlington Court National Trust also features beautiful grounds surrounding a Regency house near Barnstaple.