If you’re looking for the perfect seaside escape in the UK with plenty to do and all the amenities nearby, Ilfracombe in North Devon is the ideal destination.
Although it’s a small town, there are so many things to do in Ilfracombe and a variety of Ilfracombe attractions which are perfect for couples, romantic weekends away, children’s activities and multigenerational family holidays.
For things to do near Ilfracombe and in Ilfracombe, use this guide to plan your trip!
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10 things to do around Ilfracombe
Ilfracombe Harbour
Ilfracombe Harbour is unmissable if you’re staying in or near Ilfracombe. With boats bobbing in the harbour and pastel coloured shops and houses surrounding the waterfront, the harbour is great to explore at any time of day.
If the tide is out, the sandy bay becomes accessible and perfect for keeping an eye on the kids while they build sandcastles.
Grab fish & chips from Lynbay Fish & Chips on the harbour, voted the best fish & chips in the southwest in 2018/19 and enjoy them sitting along the seawall.
Right next door you’ll also find the most colourful ice cream shop ever that the kids will love!
Walk up to Chapel of St Nicholas – the oldest working lighthouse in Britain
Overlooking Ilfracombe Harbour you’ll see a church on the hill right on the sea edge.
This is the Chapel of St Nicholas and you can walk up to it from the path accessible from the harbour car park.
The chapel is also the oldest working lighthouse in the country, built in 1321 it was a guiding light and place of worship for sailors.
After the dissolution of King Henry VIII, it was no longer a chapel, but it is still a functioning lighthouse and is now Grade I listed.
Visiting the chapel is completely free, although donations are much appreciated.
Ilfracombe sea safari or wildlife cruise
You’ll see endless options for boat rides and tours in Ilfracombe. Ilfracombe Sea Safari offer several options for boat rides, whether you’re looking for a half hour sunset cruise, a 2 hour seals or dolphin tour, a coastal cruise, smugglers cave tour or fishing trip.
They have boat trips to suit pretty much every budget and can be booked throughout the peak season, weather permitting.
Day trip to Lundy Island
Lundy Island is a two hour boat ride off the North Coast of Devon and is owned and protected by the National Trust.
Lundy is a true escape from the rest of the world and being just 3km and 1km wide, with just 23 holiday properties on the island, the island is a real haven!
There are a few options to get there, boats to Lundy leave from both Ilfracombe and Bideford. You can go with Ilfracombe Sea Safari on a 4 hour cruise around Lundy to spot wildlife and they also offer a swim with seals experience.
If you’d like to go onto Lundy Island, you can take the Lundy Island-owned ferry, MS Oldenburg which leaves from Ilfracombe and Bideford three times a week for both passenger and supply transport.
To book the ferry and check timetables, click here.
Don’t miss these other great ideas for things to do in North Devon.
The Pier Brewery
The Pier Brewery Tap and Grill is a great option for casual dining for couples, families and kids.
They have a great selection of pub food, local beers and views of the harbour and coast.
The staff are so welcoming and it’s dog friendly too!
St James Tea Room
For something quirky and a little different, head to the Tea Rooms on St James’ Place for afternoon tea.
With the fun outdoor seating area covered in greenery and the red facade, it’s a great place to sit outside in the sun, or their fun interior if the weather is a bit chilly.
Now the only question is, cream or jam first?
Capstone Hill views
If you want to take in some of the rugged coastal views or perhaps a sunset over the sea, Capstone Hill and Capstone Parade are great options for things to do around Ilfracombe if you’re looking for a coastal walk but perhaps don’t want to go too far afield.
The proper path and easy accessibility from the town too mean it’s also great for kids or those with reduced mobility to enjoy a walk with the family.
Take in the views of Wildersmouth Beach in one direction and down towards the harbour in the opposite direction.
Just hold onto your hat because it gets a bit windy up here!
Ilfracombe Museum
If you’re looking for things to do in Ilfracombe in the rain, the museum is a great option.
It’s a weird and wonderful place to explore, with curious objects from Ilfracombe, North Devon and beyond.
There are archaeological and anthropological collections, coins, clocks, military memorabilia, shrunken heads, fossils, mounted reptiles and insects.
With over 28,000 objects, there is something for everyone to explore and you can easily spend an afternoon here.
Check opening times and book tickets here.
Crazy Golf
Fun for all the family and kids young and old!
The Crazy Golf course sits at the foot of Crapstone Hill so you can easily combine the two into an afternoon.
The prices were extremely reasonable (£4 per adult at the time of writing) and the course is long enough but without being too long!
It’s also opposite plenty of bars, cafes and takeaways if you’re wanting to grab a bite to east afterwards along Wilder Road.
Broadsands Beach
For somewhere a little further afield but just 10 minutes from Ilfracombe, Broadsands Beach is a great option if you’re looking for places to visit near Ilfracombe.
You can walk along the Southwest Coast Path for about 1.5 hours to reach Broadsands Bay, or you can drive towards Combe Martin, although there is no designated parking for the beach, just some on-street parking on Barton Hill or at Sandy Hill Hotel.
The walk from here is around 10-15 minutes along a lovely coastal, tree-lined path. There are viewpoints of the beach from the path above and the beach itself has won awards for Britain’s happiest view.
If you do want to access the beach, it’s a great beach and bay for swimming and sunbathing, although beware there are around 200 steps down to the beach and it feels like a lot more on the way back up!
Bonus – Woolacombe Beach
For a long sandy beach with easier access, head to Woolacombe Beach, a 15 minute drive south along the coast from Ilfracombe.
Among all the things to do in Ilfracombe and Woolacombe, this sandy beach surrounded by sand dunes and rugged cliffs has a car park at one end, is easily accessible for kids and perfect for surfers.
Definitely a must-visit if you’re planning a day out at the beach in North Devon.
Summary: Things to do in Ilfracombe, North Devon
It might be a cute, small seaside town but with so many things to do in Ilfracombe, North Devon, it’s a brilliant option for a seaside getaway in the UK that’s got something for everyone.
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