Finding Accessible Places to Stay, Eat & Visit
Our Visit Ilfracombe website is a valuable tool for planning your trip. Many local businesses have provided details on their accessibility. When browsing sections for Accommodation, Food & Drink, or Things To Do, you can filter the listings to find venues that meet your specific needs. Look for the accessibility tags on each listing, which include details such as:
Transport
Accessible Taxis
Service: Provides wheelchair-accessible vehicles upon request. It is advisable to book in advance.
Contact: 01271 865385
Bus Services
Local bus routes connect Ilfracombe with nearby towns including Barnstaple and Combe Martin. For routes and timetables, please see our Getting Around By Bus page.
Services to Barnstaple and Combe Martin are operated by Stagecoach. You can find their detailed accessibility information for bus users here.
Mobility Equipment Hire
Services: Offers mobility scooters, manual and powered wheelchairs, rollators, and daily living aids (e.g., grab rails, commodes) for short and long-term hire.
Delivery: Equipment can be delivered to and collected from holiday accommodation in the Ilfracombe and North Devon area.
Standards: All equipment is fully serviced and sanitised before hire.
Contact: 01271 500785 or email hello@mobilitynorthdevon.co.uk
Off-Road Mobility Scooter (Tramper) Hire
Scheme: Countryside Mobility provides ‘Tramper’ all-terrain scooters for hire at various scenic locations, allowing access to countryside paths. Membership may be required.
Local Hire Points:
Woolacombe: (via the Tourist Information Centre)
Arlington Court: (National Trust)
Heddon Valley: (National Trust)
Glen Lyn Gorge: (near Lynton & Lynmouth)
Full Scheme Details: countrysidemobility.org/where
Beach Accessibility
For detailed information on beach access across the region, visit accessforallbeaches.org.uk.
Woolacombe
Provider: Woolacombe Tourist Information Centre (TIC).
Equipment for Hire:
Beach Wheelchairs: One Hippocampe and one Wheeleez model are available for hire free of charge (donations welcome). A vacuum backrest and a Banana transfer board are also available.
All-Terrain Mobility Scooter (Tramper): Available for a hire fee.
Contact & Booking: Advance booking is recommended. Contact Woolacombe TIC at info@woolacombetourism.co.uk or 01271 870553.
Combe Martin
Equipment for Hire: A Wheeleez and a Hippocampe beach wheelchair are available. An Access For All Banana Board is also available.
Location: Near the main beach slipway.
Access: The key is available from the Premier shop located opposite the slipway.
Croyde
Equipment for Hire: Access For All have four beach wheelchairs which can be hired free of charge from the surf shop or Parkdean Ruda reception. A voluntary donation is suggested. See the Access For All flag for beach wheelchair location.
A vacuum backrest is available to borrow for the Hippocampe beach wheelchair for those who need a little bit of extra trunk support.
Two Banana Boards are also available to borrow.
Surfing: Croyde is designated as the UK’s first Adaptive Surfing Hub, with facilities to support surfers of all abilities.
Boat Trips
Accessibility Note: Due to the large tidal range in the Bristol Channel, access to most charter boats from Ilfracombe Harbour involves navigating steps. Boarding arrangements can change significantly with the tide.
Most Accessible Options:
Ilfracombe Princess: Generally considered one of the more accessible local boat trips.
PS Waverley: The historic paddle steamer offers reasonable accessibility when it visits Ilfracombe. See their website for sailing plans.
Recommendation: It is strongly advised to contact the boat trip operator directly before booking to discuss your specific access requirements and to confirm the boarding conditions for your intended travel time.
Adaptive Surfing
Provider: The Wave Project has an adaptive surfing hub at Croyde.
Facilities Include:
Fully qualified adaptive surf coaches.
Adapted equipment (seated surfboards, adjustable wetsuits, beach wheelchairs).
Level access to the beach.
Accessible toilets and changing facilities.
Nearby disabled parking with step-free access.
With its dramatic coastal scenery, charming Victorian architecture, and a vibrant harbour, Ilfracombe is a truly special place to visit. We believe that everyone should have the chance to experience the stunning landscapes, unique attractions, and warm welcome that North Devon offers. We hope this guide helps you plan a comfortable and exciting visit, filled with wonderful adventures and unforgettable memories. We can’t wait to see you!
