Things to do in Ilfracombe

Use our guide to discover the best things to do in Ilfracombe

No matter the time of year, you’ll find a number of things to do in Ilfracombe.

North Devon’s coastal resort of Ilfracombe is a unique destination, offering a traditional seaside experience to all visitors.

Ilfracombe Attractions

Discover the best things to do in Ilfracombe right here. Head out on a day of adventure and choose to walk or bike the Tarka Trail. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve offers a spectacular network of foot and bike pathways alongside breath-taking coastal views. Visit the 12th-century Ilfracombe Harbour and spend the day at one of its exquisite beaches including Tunnels Beach, Wildersmouth Beach and Woolacombe Beach.

Visit the award-winning Ilfracombe Aquarium and the distinctive small chapel on Lantern Hill, known to be one of the country’s oldest operational lighthouses.

Things to do near Ilfracombe

Devon boasts a range of vibrant seaside resorts, rustic countryside and exciting cities. Dartmouth is a popular tourist town where you can visit Agatha Christie’s summer house, whilst Paignton is perfect for outdoor adventure and watersports.

Exeter is a historic city with a Gothic cathedral, ideal for a memorable day out. Alternatively, if you fancy a relaxing trip to the seaside, explore Salcombe, Westward Ho!, and Torquay.

Continue reading to discover the best things to do in Ilfracombe…

Tunnels Beach image by: Garden State Hiker, Watermouth Castle image by: Dave Skinner , Ilfracombe Harbour image by: Jill Everington – CCSA 2.0, Combe Martin Wildlife & Dinosaur image by: Roger Cornfoot – CCSA 2.0

Combe Martin Wildlife & Dinosaur Park

Combe Martin
Ilfracombe
Devon
EX34 0NG

01271 882486

With a variety of sub-tropical gardens, you can enjoy the selection of exotic animals and wander the lovely area, whilst the children spend some time in the soft play zone.
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Ilfracombe Harbour

EX34 9EQ

01271 862108

Noted as the largest harbour on the North Devon coast, this is an ideal base to tour the area, especially Lundy Island and other harbours amidst North Cornwall and Bristol Channel coasts.
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Lundy Island

The Quay
Ilfracombe
EX34 9EQ

Located just a short distance from Bude, off the North Devon Coast, Lundy Island is an unspoilt heritage site and home to a stunning display of wildlife with breath-taking views.
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Tarka Trail

EX31

This 32-mile trail reaches from the village of Braunton to the village of Meeth, and offers a completely traffic-free route for cyclists and walkers.
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Tunnels Beach

This unique collection of beaches are backed by high cliffs and can only be accessed via a network of nineteenth century tunnels; there are a mix of sand and shingle beaches and a Victorian tidal swimming pool as well as a café and picnic area.
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Watermouth Castle

EX34 9SL

This 19th-century mock-castle has been converted into a fun family theme park, offering a number of rides and attractions as well as an insight into the history of the stately home.
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Wildersmouth Beach

Dog Friendly

Wildersmouth is a sheltered, shingle beach hidden away from the hustle and bustle of central Ilfracombe, yet still within reach of its lively atmosphere.
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Woolacombe Beach

EX34 7DL

01271 870555

An award-winning golden, sandy stretch of beach located in the stunning North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that attracts everyone from bathers to surfers.
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