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If you\u2019re planning your next holiday or family getaway in the UK, a holiday in Ilfracombe in North Devon is a great option. Ilfracombe has so much to offer no matter who you\u2019re holidaying with. Whether you\u2019re looking for an active adventure holiday with friends, a relaxing retreat with your partner, a cultural exploration or some wholesome family fun, you won\u2019t be disappointed.<\/p>\n
A holiday in Ilfracombe in North Devon has all the bases covered. The beautiful coastline is perfectly complimented by the rugged countryside and the many towns and villages that populate the northern coast of Devon make this area extremely attractive for the 6 million visitors<\/a> who choose this region for their holidays and day trips each year.<\/p>\n We may be biased because we have made Ilfracombe our home, but we think this part of the country is the perfect choice for anyone looking to plan a holiday in the UK. Ilfracombe has been a popular tourist destination for many years and in our opinion, it is one of the most beautiful towns you could visit in North Devon. The picture postcard town has so much to offer and in this post, we will share some of our local knowledge with you so that you can plan your perfect holiday in Ilfracombe, North Devon.<\/p>\n The first thing that probably springs to mind when you think of Ilfracombe is Verity<\/a>, Damien Hirst\u2019s 20m stainless steel and bronze statue that depicts a pregnant woman holding a sword up in the air while carrying the scales of justice and standing on a pile of law books.<\/p>\n You cannot visit Ilfracombe without stopping by the harbour to take in this magnificent sculpture that draws in art-loving tourists year after year.<\/p>\n But Ilfracombe is about so much more than Verity. There are many other attractions and activities that you can do in and around Ilfracombe that will create a memory-making holiday for you and your travel companions.<\/p>\n We are extremely lucky to have the largest harbour on the North Devon Coast right here in Ilfracombe. The bustling port has been in operation since the 12th<\/sup> Century and whilst it is a functional port for landing locally caught fish and seafood, which we serve in The Brasserie<\/a>, it is also used for the many leisure and tourism activities that take place in Ilfracombe. Whether you\u2019re planning a sea safari, a day trip to Lundy Island or doing a spot of sea fishing, the harbour is where you will want to head.<\/p>\n Ilfracombe may be famous for Verity, but coming in a close second is probably Tunnels Beaches<\/a>. The network of hand-carved tunnels leads to unique sheltered beaches and a tidal Victorian bathing pool. The private beaches are the main beaches in Ilfracombe and are steeped in history.<\/p>\n If you are visiting Ilfracombe in North Devon with a group of adults there are plenty of things that will keep you occupied. If gardens are your thing, make sure you stop by Runnymede Gardens. This is a small, enclosed garden close to the Landmark Theatre and seafront.<\/p>\n Photo by\u00a0Richard Brannen<\/a>\u00a0on\u00a0Unsplash<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n While you\u2019re there, the Landmark Theatre<\/a> is a 483-seat arts and entertainment complex where you can watch a film, a musical, a play, a concert, or a dance performance.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re looking for something more active and outdoorsy there is always the South West Coast Path<\/a> to explore. The path is 630 miles long and runs all the way around the South West Coast from Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset. It is a mixture of rural and urban walks and runs right through Ilfracombe.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re a fan of the paranormal why not consider visiting Chambercombe Manor<\/a>, a manor House in Ilfracombe thought to date from the 11th century, was mentioned in the Domesday Book and is thought to be haunted.<\/p>\n Hele Cornmill<\/a> is a 16th-century working water mill just outside Ilfracombe. It\u2019s a great stop for cream tea in the Teagarden.<\/p>\n St Nicholas Chapel<\/a> is a working lighthouse dating back to 1321 and is said to be the oldest in the country. It is open to visitors from Easter to October.<\/p>\n Watermouth Castle<\/a> is a Victorian Castle full of eclectic treasures and vintage curios. Kids will love the outdoor theme park which includes toboggan runs, mazes, river rides, crazy golf, swing boats, steam carousels and a gnome village.<\/p>\n Bicclescombe Park<\/a> is Ilfracombe\u2019s premier park and features a large children\u2019s play area and sensory garden.<\/p>\n Down on the harbour is Ilfracombe Aquarium<\/a>, an award-winning, all-weather, family attraction. The living exhibits display a variety of species of aquatic animals from around North Devon.<\/p>\n Kids will love a trip to the Ilfracombe Chocolate Emporium<\/a> where they can learn all about how their favourite sweet treat is made in the chocolate museum before sampling some of the goods.<\/p>\n Devon\u2019s very own prehistoric park is situated just a few minutes outside Ilfracombe in Combe Martin. At Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park<\/a>\u00a0kids can enjoy the impressive life-sized animatronic dinosaurs and the gigantic Dinosaurus Playzone.<\/p>\n North Devon’s all-weather, multi-award-winning attraction The Milky Way Adventure Park<\/a> is a short distance away in Clovelly and is fantastic for kids who seeking thrills as well as those looking to learn about birds of prey, paint some pottery or play a game of mini golf.<\/p>\n From rollercoasters to hilarious animal shows, there is something for toddlers, tiddlers and teens at The Big Sheep<\/a>, yet another award-winning attraction just outside Ilfracombe in Bideford.<\/p>\n If you need more inspiration, check out this handy guide by Devon with Kids for more ideas of things to do in Ilfracombe for kids<\/a>.<\/p>\n Maybe shopping is your favourite pastime and you\u2019re wondering whether Ilfracombe has a good selection of shops to keep you occupied while you holiday in North Devon. We\u2019re delighted to inform you that Ilfracombe has an excellent selection of independent shops, greengrocers, butchers and bakers, as well as traditional seaside souvenir gift shops and galleries.<\/p>\n A holiday in Ilfracombe in North Devon wouldn’t;t be complete without the obligatory day trips to other towns and villages in the near vicinity. You\u2019ll be glad to know that we have a selection of great towns near Ilfracombe that make for fantastic trips. Here are some of our favourites:<\/p>\n These two villages in North Devon are best known for Woolacombe Beach<\/a>. This 3-mile sandy stretch of beach is great for body boarding, rock pooling, building sand castles and playing beach games. But both villages have plenty more to offer including great pubs and restaurants.<\/p>\n Just six miles west of Barnstaple is Braunton, a densely populated village that boasts a working model railway and the Museum of British Surfing along with various eateries.<\/p>\n Superb sandy beaches and spectacular scenery characterise the unspoilt village of Croyde. The village is particularly popular with young surfers and those seeking outdoor activities and water sports.<\/p>\n Barnstaple is one of the UK’s oldest boroughs as well as being one of the largest towns in North Devon. Known as the social centre of North Devon, Barnstaple is home to great markets, eateries, and shopping opportunities.<\/p>\n The picturesque villages of Lynton & Lynmouth are worth a visit for the world-famous Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway, the Lynmouth Regatta & Maritime Festival or a local market, there is something for everyone in this charming seaside town.<\/p>\n The classic British market town of South Molton is known for its traditional markets that take place twice a week in the main square. The town has a reputation for the quality of its caf\u00e9s and independent shops.<\/p>\n Bideford was once Britain’s third largest port and it is now a cultural hub in North Devon with plenty to do and see including nature attractions, walking and cycling trails and ferry trips.<\/p>\n Appledore is a historic fishing village full of maritime history and cute pastel houses. Home to the North Devon Maritime Museum and well-known for the quality of the seafood, Appledore is also a haven for creativity.<\/p>\n The only town in the UK to have an exclamation mark as part of its name, Westward Ho! is a delightful village by the sea and one of North Devon\u2019s most popular surfing and swimming spots.<\/p>\n Dine in style at The Brasserie<\/p><\/div>\n We\u2019re not exaggerating when we say that Ilfracombe is the gastronomic capital of North Devon. We have some of the best chefs in the area here and they benefit from what we call \u201cNorth Devon\u2019s Larder\u201d From the fresh fish and live seafood landed daily in the harbour to fine Exmoor meats, locally grown fruit and vegetables, tasty cheeses and more, Ilfracombe is a food-lovers paradise.<\/p>\n We\u2019d love to invite you to sample some of our locally sourced food right here in the Brasserie. You can book your Brasserie table here<\/a>.<\/p>\n Whilst Ilfracombe has a lot to offer in the summer months when the weather is finer and we can enjoy the outdoors, there is still plenty to enjoy in Ilfracombe in winter. The Landmark Theatre has shows all year round, the Aquarium can be enjoyed no matter what the weather and chocolate workshops at the Chocolate Emporium are a taste sensation.<\/p>\n The independent Embassy Cinema<\/a> shows all the latest releases and alternative films and is the perfect way to while away a drab and dreary winter\u2019s day il Ilfracombe.<\/p>\n There is fun for all the family at Ilfracombe Museum<\/a>. From natural specimens, maritime models, and technology, to Victoriana, tools and ceremonial objects, and wartime memories, this should keep you occupied until the wet weather dries up enough to get back outdoors.<\/p>\n So there you have it. That’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect holiday in Ilfracombe in North Devon.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" If you\u2019re planning your next holiday or family getaway in the UK, a holiday in Ilfracombe in North Devon is a great option. Ilfracombe has so much to offer no matter who you\u2019re holidaying with. Whether you\u2019re looking for an active adventure holiday with friends, a relaxing retreat with your partner, a cultural exploration or […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":20,"featured_media":284163,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"Is Ilfracombe worth visiting?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
What is Ilfracombe famous for?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Damien Hirst’s Verity<\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"Verity](\"http:\/\/www.ilfracombecarlton.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Verity-Damient-Hirst-scaled.jpg\")
<\/p>\nIlfracombe Attractions to Visit<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Ilfracombe Harbour<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Ilfracombe Tunnels Beach<\/strong><\/h3>\n
What is there to do in Ilfracombe for adults?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Runnymede Gardens<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Landmark Theatre<\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"A](\"http:\/\/www.ilfracombecarlton.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/richard-brannen-At3dQoKCHnY.jpg\")
<\/p>\nSouthwest Coast Path<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Chambercombe Manor<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Hele Cornmill<\/strong><\/h3>\n
St Nicholas Chapel<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Things to do in Ilfracombe for Kids<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Watermouth Castle<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Bicclescombe Park<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Ilfracombe Aquarium<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Chocolate Emporium<\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"A](\"http:\/\/www.ilfracombecarlton.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Chocolate-workshop.jpg\")
<\/p>\nCombe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park<\/strong><\/h3>\n
The Milky Way Adventure Park<\/strong><\/h3>\n
The Big Sheep Farm & Theme Park<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Are There Many Shops in Ilfracombe?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Which places are near Ilfracombe?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Woolacombe & Mortehoe<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Braunton<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Croyde<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Barnstaple<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Lynton and Lynmouth<\/strong><\/h3>\n
South Molton<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Bideford<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Appledore<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Westward Ho!<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Where to Eat in Ilfracombe<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"An](\"http:\/\/www.ilfracombecarlton.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Brasserie-table-water-close-up-Jan22-2-scaled.jpg\")
Ilfracombe in Winter<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Embassy Cinema<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Ilfracombe Museum<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Morte Point, Mortehoe Village<\/span><\/h1>\r\nEnjoy a challenging walk through a rare spot of coastal heathland which provides the wonderful backdrop for a wealth of wild flowers and wildlife. \u00a0You might even be lucky enough to spot some of our infamous sealife including dolphins and seals. This wonderful dog walk will take you out into the fresh country air and really give you an opportunity to get the blood pumping with steep ascents, steps and descents to challenge you along the way. \u00a0Adventurers will be rewarded with the discovery of some hidden beaches along the way and for those who enjoy a bit of history, discover why Morte Point has been responsible for many a shipwreck throughout the centuries.[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]\r\n
Saunton Sands<\/span><\/h1>\r\nA short drive or long walk along the South West Coast Path and you arrive at stunning Saunton Sands. \u00a0This particular beach is a favourite for dog walks\u00a0as it welcomes dogs year round. Saunton Sands employs\u00a0easy to follow zoning sections where just the car park and first 5 minutes of your stroll requires that your dog is kept on the lead. \u00a0From here you have the next 3.5 miles of golden sands to explore and enjoy with your four legged friend.[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]\r\n
Hillsborough Nature Reserve<\/span><\/h1>\r\nKnown to the locals as 'the sleeping elephant', Hillsborough Nature Reserve offers a short but testing walk for you and your dog. \u00a0This dog walk takes you past beaches which are also dog friendly so offers plenty of opportunity for a run and a dip in the sea for both of you - especially welcome during those warm summer months! The views provided by this dog walk are glorious - a bird's eye view of Ilfracombe, out to Lundy Island and even as far as the South Wales coast. \u00a0There is so much for nature lovers to enjoy along the way too with an array of wildlife and their habitats to be seen.[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]\r\n
Baggy Point<\/span><\/h1>\r\nAs well as providing a dog friendly route, Baggy Point is also an easy access route which is especially important in opening up our beautiful countryside walks to as many people as possible. \u00a0Considered an easy route, Baggy Point lends itself to those pups who cannot manage a challenging route but still enjoy the great outdoors. \u00a0It is also considered equally good for young children. Baggy Point might be a shorter, easier dog walk than others on our list, but nonetheless it delivers in breathtaking sights. \u00a0The views along the way extend along the coast and out to sea\u00a0and you can also enjoy sightings of our diverse wildlife and sealife - there's plenty to keep everyone captivated along the way.[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]\r\n
The South West Coast Path<\/span><\/h1>\r\nThe Carlton Hotel is delightfully situated in Ilfracombe town centre where you can begin dog walks\u00a0in any direction to end up on the beautiful South West Coast Path. \u00a0Here we have miles and miles of stunning countryside and coastal walks to explore and discover your very own favourite spot. Whilst we have only covered our top 5 dog walks\u00a0in this blog, there are of course so many dog walks here to enjoy and far too many to list . \u00a0The South West Coast Path website<\/a> is an excellent place to begin to plan your local dog walks when you visit us here in Ilfracombe.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_padding_top=\"padding_top_none\" row_padding_bottom=\"padding_bottom_none\"][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Carlton Hotel is a dog friendly hotel which welcomes well behaved humans and their four legged friends. \u00a0Our aim is to make your break as pleasurable for your dog as it is for you. \u00a0Inform us when you book<\/a> and we will endevour to ensure all your needs are met, including bowls and dog beds in your room. We look forward to welcoming you and your dog to The Carlton Hotel.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_padding_top=\"padding_top_none\" row_padding_bottom=\"padding_bottom_none\"][vc_column][plethora_button button_text=\"Book your dog friendly stay here\" button_link=\"url:http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ilfracombecarlton.co.uk%2Fbook%2F|||\" button_size=\"btn-lg\" button_style=\"btn-primary\" button_align=\"text-center\" button_with_icon=\"0\"][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_padding_top=\"padding_top_none\" row_padding_bottom=\"padding_bottom_none\"][vc_column width=\"1\/4\"][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\"3\/4\"][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]","_et_gb_content_width":"","wds_primary_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[51],"tags":[258,259,261,201,713,714,709,712],"class_list":["post-284258","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-local-area","tag-art","tag-art-break","tag-art-holiday","tag-ilfracombe-art-trail","tag-ilfracombe-museum","tag-landmark-theatre","tag-verity","tag-watermouth-castle"],"yoast_head":"\n