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Wales | GRATTONS CEDAR LODGES Positioned just a mile away from Exmoor National Park and close to some of the best beaches in the country with the south west coastal path nearby, it’s an ideal base from which to explore the scenery of North Devon or just to relax in the peace and tranquillity of the garden setting. |
 | BEACH COVE COASTAL RETREAT Uniting effortless elegance with an unforgettable view this hideaway is set within a charming cove in one of Devon’s most idyllic locations. With a beach hut ambience inside and out, these getaways feature stylish interiors and many are complimented with outdoor hot tubs. |
 | ROSEBANK COTTAGE With six bedrooms and sea views, Rosebank is ideal for groups of family or friends wanting to enjoy a coastal retreat to Devon. The chic living space is open plan, with wooden flooring and full height windows making this a bright and sunny room. |
Ilfracombe, known as the new St Ives due to its stunning coastal location, is the perfect holiday destination for any traveller. The picturesque town with its incredible beaches and historic harbour is a haven for foodies.
Out and about
The town is surrounded by award-winning beaches which are great for a relaxing beach day, or rock pooling in the rocky coves. You can reach Tunnels Beaches through tunnels crafted in the Victorian era, which lead directly to this intimate and secluded beach surrounded by a rugged landscape.
The Harbour is a highlight of the town, with its bustling and welcoming feel as the boats travel in and out of the area and fishermen sell their produce. The iconic Verity statue is located on the end of the harbour overlooking the sea and is definitely photo worthy. Rocky beaches surround the harbour, including Rapparee Cove where you can see a shipwreck from the 18th Century. Whilst at the harbour, thrill seekers should book a boat ride at Ilfracombe Sea Safari, a fast-paced and exciting boat trip around the coast.
There are plenty of walking opportunities in this gorgeous area, as the South West Coast Path meanders through Ilfracombe’s meadows with fantastic views of the coast. Part of this route passes through The Torrs, a nature reserve with a viewpoint overlooking the spectacular cliffs and sea. The best view of the town is from Hillsborough Nature Reserve, where the view from the clifftop paints a breath-taking panorama of the coast.
In Ilfracombe, there is the opportunity to visit the secluded and lush Lundy Island, as the passenger ferry departs directly from its harbour. The island’s isolated location has led to an abundance of diverse wildlife populating the island, including puffins and seals, earning its comparison to the Galapagos Islands. A rustic pub meal can be enjoyed at the only pub on the island, the Marisco Tavern.
Places to eat
Ilfracombe is home to some highly acclaimed eateries, many of which take advantage of the produce available on their doorstep. The Smugglers Restaurant, located on the harbour, has a maritime charm with its nautical décor and hearty pub meals of Devonshire seafood. Espresso Seafood Bar & Grill serves crab and lobster caught off Ilfracombe’s coast in its light lunches and grill meals. Try out S&P Fish Shop’s inventive seafood meals inside its harbour-view seating area. This is also the only fishmonger in the town.
There are plenty of cosy cafés in town where a laid-back coffee can be enjoyed. The Manor House Café is a family-owned establishment with a friendly atmosphere, and freshly baked goods are served daily. This business prides itself on being a social hub of Ilfracombe. St James Tea Room is a great place to enjoy traditional Devonshire cream tea in its tropical garden surrounded by colourful flowers.
For evening drinks, visit George & Dragon, a lively pub which also serves hearty pub meals. Quizzes and game nights are often held here, which is a fun way to get involved in the community life of Ilfracombe. Or for a more intimate and sophisticated feel, enjoy a glass of wine with a view of the harbour alight at night in Open Up Wine Bar.
Pick up a treat for yourself or family and friends back at home at Ilfracombe Chocolate Emporium, where there are incredible and creative chocolate treats crafted by self-confessed chocoholics. You can even browse their Chocolate Museum to learn more about the history of chocolate making.
For families
In town there are a range of activities available for families. Both adults and kids can enjoy a round or two of crazy golf, its site is located right by the coast. Ilfracombe Aquarium, re-opening mid-July, is a great attraction for an educational and enjoyable way of discovering Devon’s marine life. Pick up a souvenir at the gift shop to remember the visit to this fascinating place. Take a walk through Ilfracombe via the Ilfracombe Fish Trail, where you can discover the town with interactive activities for the kids to keep them entertained.
Animal fans can experience a day as a zookeeper at Exmoor Zoo, just 25 minutes away from Ilfracombe. Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park features amazing animals as well, and also life-size animatronic dinosaurs across the site. Here, children can watch the lions and feeding and even swim with a seal.
A day trip to Watermouth Castle is guaranteed to be a memorable and exciting experience. Not only is there the castle itself to explore, but also a family-friendly theme park of rides and attractions for all ages. There are two cafés and a picnic area so that lunch can be eaten on site, as well as homemade fudge and ice cream to replenish energy levels after the excitement created by the rides.