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Things To Do

In and around Ilfracombe there are many fine and award winning beaches, from secluded coves to the wide stretches of golden sand with crashing surf. For a unique beach experience visit 'The Tunnels' in Ilfracombe, holders of a blue flag and seaside award or Hele Bay to the east of the town also award winners, for good bathing and rock pool exploring.

A few minutes from the centre of Ilfracombe by car or bus are the spectacular sandy beaches and dunes of Woolacombe, Croyde Bay and Saunton Sands. The whole area is a mecca for surfing and is a children's paradise, where they will amuse themselves safely for hours building sandcastles, flying kites or playing in the shallow breakers.

If shopping is what you are after then taking a trip to the nearby town of Barnstaple is highly recommended, you will find a wide choice of shops including popular high street stores and family run businesses. For a unique shopping experience visit the historic pannier market where you can browse a range of stalls selling home grown produce and cakes to antiques and collectables, an experience not to be missed!

If it's entertainment you want, you will find events, festivals, theatre and cinema throughout the year in Ilfracombe, many based at the prestigious Landmark Theatre on the seafront Ilfracombe.

If it's a reminder of past times you are after, then the Victorian celebrations and fireworks in June are for you. They form one of the major events in the North Devon calendar with parades, stalls and a range of activities including many townsfolk dressing up in true Victorian costume.

You will find plenty to do in and around Ilfracombe with a terrific range of activities available to suit all tastes including walking, clay pidgeon shooting, fishing, horse riding, cycling, surfing, walking, sub-aqua diving or simply exploring.