About Ilfracombe, Berrynarbor and Combe Martin

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Ilfracombe became a favourite holiday destination during Victorian times and families still flock here today to enjoy its traditional resort attractions, beaches and harbour. Home to the Landmark Theatre and many renowned restaurants, Ilfracombe forms a gateway between the Exmoor National Park to the east and the beaches of North Devon's golden coast to the west. White-washed houses, grand Victorian villas and terraces typify Ilfracombe's genteel elegance and timelessness, while there's a continental air about the quay area, where pubs, restaurants and shops provide a place to people-watch and you can catch a boat to Lundy Island – the waters around the island were named England’s first marine conservation zone early in 2010.

To the west of Ilfracombe is the tiny village of Lee, known locally as 'Fuchsia Valley' because its hedgerows are ablaze with scarlet in the flowering season. And to the east, past the peaceful harbour of Watermouth Cove, is the seaside village of Combe Martin which has a long, meandering main street with a good selection of pubs, shops and restaurants plus two small beaches scattered with rock pools and sand at low tide.

Just a short drive inland you’ll find the picturesque village of Berrynarbor, overlooking the Sterridge Valley and home to a beautiful 15th century church.

Ilfracombe Tourist Information

Ilfracombe – Raparee, Hele Bay, Harbour and Tunnels beaches. Delightful coastal walks and gardens. Exceptionally scenic coastal golf course. Landmark Theatre featuring Summer Variety Shows. Boat trips for fishing and to Lundy Island. Local history museum . Modern indoor swimming pool. Tennis. Bicclescombe Park corn mill, water gardens, childrens boats and pets corner. Chambercombe Manor – 14th Century manor house with historical collections. Wide selection of shops, pubs, disco and restaurants.

Ilfracombe Attractions (Particular beauty spots)

Lee – Unspoilt smugglers cove and picturesque hamlet.

Combe Martin – Excellent walking centre adjoining Exmoor and with outstanding coastal walks especially around Hangmans Hill and Holdstone Down. Two, small rock and shingle beaches close to village centre with sand at low tide. Animal sanctuary and dinosaur theme park with life size animated species and otters, seals, monkeys, wallabies etc in delightful valley garden. Motorcycle collection. Good choice of historic inns and quality restaurants.

Berrynarbor – Prize winning, picturesque village overlooking the beautiful Sterridge Valley with first class restaurant and historic inn.

Watermouth – Peaceful sailing harbour with small sandy beaches. Watermouth Castle and pleasure garden with many historic collections and modern amusements.

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