North Devon is known for many things, one of which is its breathtaking dramatic coastline. Dotting along its peaks and troughs are countless timeless seaside villages and towns that offer unimaginable views, inviting culture and unforgettable memories.
In this blog, we highlight our top 5 pretty seaside villages to take a day trip to when you visit North Devon
Appledore
Where the Taw and Torridge rivers meet, sits the delightful quayside village of Appledore, a centuries-old fishing and trading village that has retained its traditional seaside village essence. The streets are abundant with quaint and colourful houses dating back to the 14th century that give the village a truly classical English feel.
Apple Door is also home to some of the best pubs in the local area for both food, drink and entertainment as well as award-winning cafes for a delightful slice of cake or coffee. If you take a stroll along the promenade alongside the quay you can even treat yourself to a Hockings ice cream, which many of the locals claim is the best in the county!
Morthoe
Little-known Mortehoe happens to be at the heart of this coastline, situated right next to exquisite beaches and bustling seaside resorts yet hidden on a secluded clifftop. Families and groups will have a great time with all the activities available in the surrounding area and you can make the most of the serene location and feel of the village itself with quiet dinners and days spent exploring the sandy beaches. There’s plenty for everyone, including miles of walks and dog-friendly beaches.
Lee Bay
Another little-known coastal village in North Devon is Lee Bay. It is no surprise that Lee Bay has been awarded the title of an Area of Outstanding natural beauty, as the village is situated at the mouth of a forest-covered valley. The village itself trickles down the hill until it meets the water’s edge where you will find a picturesque bay. There is a wonderful local pub with a large beer garden, perfect for lunch in the sunshine, however, there is currently no local shop, so be sure to take everything you might need with you when you visit.
For those of you with an adventurous spirit, in the summer months, there are water sports available where you can try paddleboarding, kayaking and even go on a coasteering tour!
Lee Bay is particularly breathtaking on a high tide when the bay fills with the blue ocean and at sunset, as the sun decent between the cliffs and past the waterline.
Lynton and Lynmouth
Lynton and Lynmouth are two adjoining villages nestled into the valley of the coastline. As there is so much to see and do in these villages we highly recommend you allow for a full day of exploration and adventure.
On offer to you when you visit this area is:
- The oldest cliff railway in the UK
- Watersmeet woodland walk with a charming and whimsical café
- Lynmouth Gorge Waterfall walk
- A range of pubs, eateries and cafes
- Local shops full of delightful souvenirs and gifts
Valley of the rocks
Adjoined to Lynton and Lynmouth is the Valley of the Rock, which is a must-see when visiting north Devon. You’ll discover a vast and dramatic valley which leads to a wave-like rock formation that breaks on the edge of the cliff. Some footpaths trail across this entire area so you can view the valley from atop the hill or brave the narrow but beautiful cliff edge path that looks over to Wales. As an extra treat, goats call The Valley of the Rocks their homes, and you can often see them traverse high onto the cliff edge.
Hartland
Although the hartland may be remote, it boasts one of the most magnificent locations and coastline in the local area. Situated in the hartland peninsular, which is called an area of outstanding natural beauty, the village of heartland has plenty to offer its visitors. Hartland Point, which is within walking distance from the village, is one of the wildest headlands imaginable. There are many wonderful vantage points, accessible by car or on foot, and the hartland quay waterfall that cascades from the cliff side.
The beautiful surroundings have offered inspiration to creatives for generations, so it’s hardly surprising that the village is full of workshops and galleries where you can find some incredible works of art and unique locally made gifts. The village itself offers a delightful local pub for lunch and a beverage as well as a local shop.
If it’s culture you’re after, the award-winning gardens at Docton Mill offer a journey through several lovingly restored landscapes and Hartland Abbey boasts a fascinating historic family home (a former Augustinian monastery)
We have talked more about Hartland Abbey and other local Historical homes in our blog piece on our top dog-friendly activities to do in north Devon.
Clovelly
We couldn’t talk about the pretties seaside villages in North Devon without mentioning Clovelly. Visiting this village is like stepping back in time, as it has remained virtually the same for decades.
Clinging to a 400-foot cliff, it has no vehicular traffic, just donkeys and sledges, although jeep taxis are running in the summer months for those until to traverse the steep streets.
Its steep, cobbled street tumbles its way down to the ancient fishing harbour and C14th quay. It is a descent through flower-strewn cottages broken only by little passageways and winding lanes that lead off to offer the prospect of further picturesque treasures.
Donkeys used to be the main form of transport for centuries, but now mainly give children rides around their meadow during the summer or can be seen posing for photographs in the street.
As the village is privately owned you will have to pay a small fee at the top of the village to enter.
Hotels and Spa In North Devon
No matter where you explore in Devon, there’s always a fantastic destination waiting just around the corner. Whether you decide to explore one of our suggested locations or if you feel inspired to discover another charming spot, you can make the most of your spring day trips while being surrounded by the season’s splendid flowers.
If you’re in search of a tranquil place to stay during your Devon journey, consider our Devon Manor Hotel and spa as your ideal choice. Nestled within 20 acres of stunning green landscapes, our 18th-century mansion provides the perfect setting for relaxation. You can unwind by wandering through our expansive grounds, indulging in the luxury of our spa, or enjoying the comfort of our classic rooms. Reserve your luxurious Devon spa hotel getaway today and embark on a springtime adventure to explore all these delightful places.