North Devon may be famed for its impressive coastline, but in this North Devon travel guide, you’ll learn there’s a lot more to the area than just great surf. From charming countryside villages and scenic day outs to the best pubs or spots for a picnic, our North Devon travel guide covers everything you need to know to explore Exmoor and beyond.
For many people, the coast is the first place to head, but there’s so much more to see and do in North Devon. From exploring the wilds of Exmoor and quaint country villages to enjoying active outdoor adventures or heritage days out, heading inland proves that North Devon really does have it all. And many of the counties’ inland attractions are much less crowded than seaside hotspots, making it the ideal option if you’re looking for a quieter, slower-paced escape away from the crowds.
By heading inland into Exmoor National Park, you’ll discover a completely different side to North Devon. With rolling moorland, steep wooded valleys, known locally as combes, you’ll feel a world away from busy seaside towns.
With dramatic scenery, an abundance of wildlife and dark skies, there is so much to see, day and night. While miles of walking and cycling trails, great river fishing and water sports like canoeing and paddleboarding ensure there’s something for everyone.
In our North Devon travel guide, you’ll discover some of the best towns and villages to explore.
The social centre of North Devon, Barnstaple, is the perfect town to start a day out exploring.
Head to the historic Pannier Market to discover local crafts and artisan food, or check out the regular events hosted here. You can even walk a stretch of the Tarka Trail, the longest, traffic-free cycle route in the UK.
After a visit to Barnstaple, you can meander along the coast to the characterful market town of Bideford, which sits on the banks of the River Torridge. Once Britain’s third largest port, it is now renowned for its eclectic mix of independent pubs, shops and restaurants.
After a stroll in Bideford, end your day in the picturesque, privately owned harbour village, Clovelly. Steeped in history, this unique village was once owned by the Queen of England.
Now, for a small entrance fee, you can explore the charming, cobbled streets, take a stroll through Clovelly Court Gardens, or visit the village’s resident donkeys.
A great day out for all the family, these two quaint villages are linked by a 500-foot Victorian funicular cliff railway. As well as offering spectacular scenery and traditional seaside entertainment, Lynton offers easy access to the South West Coast Path for those keen to explore.
One of the best ways to experience the real character and beauty of North Devon is by meandering along its many footpaths, coastal routes and countryside trails.
And no North Devon travel guide would be complete without mentioning the South West Coast Path, a long-distance walking trail that winds along North Devon’s rugged shoreline. Whether you commit to tackling a short section or a full day hike, you won’t be disappointed by the stunning views.
The Tarka Trail is also a great option for great walking in North Devon. A largely flat, traffic-free trail suitable for walkers and cyclists through charming villages and picturesque countryside.
On top of that, you’ll find a myriad of footpaths and trails scattered across North Devon, with many routes available right on our doorstep. So it’s easy to reconnect with nature and explore a side of Devon you may not have experienced before on our recommended local walks.
At Northcote Manor, we firmly believe a getaway shouldn’t just be about where you go – it’s about slowing down and enjoying the simple pleasures, like great local food. And there’s plenty of delicious local fare to sample here in North Devon.
Enjoy a traditional Devon cream tea (cream first, jam on top) in a quaint village café, tuck into local pub grub in the heart of Exmoor National Park, or enjoy fresh seafood by the coast. Whatever your foodie scene, you’ll find local producers and independent eateries brimming with enthusiasm, including in our very own restaurant, where we serve up the very best seasonal, local produce daily.
To make the most of our North Devon travel guide, we recommend planning your stay to incorporate the best of the coast and countryside.
Start your morning exploring local towns and villages like Barnstaple before heading to the coast to enjoy an afternoon by the sea at Lynton. Or spend the whole day exploring Exmoor and soaking up the wild beauty of the National Park.
Located just a thirty-minute drive from Barnstaple and the Exmoor National Park, at Northcote Manor, you’re ideally based for exploring all of North Devon, from the coast to the wilds of the moors.
Our comfortable bedrooms have all been designed to offer a home-from-home, while our on-site restaurant, spa and peaceful surroundings ensure everything is taken care of, so you can relax and switch off from day-to-day stresses.
If this North Devon travel guide has inspired you to discover more of the area, why not book a few days away? At Northcote Manor, you’re guaranteed a warm and welcoming stay in the heart of rural North Devon.
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