Many of our guests at Sylvie’s Cottage ask us for recommendations of the best beaches in North Devon to visit. And they are very much spoilt for choice!
Nestled in the picturesque countryside, Sylvie’s Cottage offers easy access to some of the most stunning beaches in the region. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, exploring the nearby coastline is a must.
Here are some of the best beaches in North Devon within easy reach of Sylvie’s Cottage that you should not miss.
Please note all distances are from Sylvie’s Cottage.
Buck’s Mills Beach
(1.5 miles – approx. 5 min drive)
- Secluded and quiet atmosphere
- Beautiful village with historic charm
- Excellent for rock pooling and nature walks
- Ideal for a peaceful retreat
Secluded Cove and Quaint Village
Buck’s Mills is a hidden gem located a few miles from Woolsery. This secluded beach is perfect for those seeking peace and tranquility. Nestled in a picturesque village, the beach is accessible via a steep path, rewarding visitors with a quiet cove surrounded by cliffs and woodland. It’s an excellent spot for rock pooling and enjoying the natural beauty of the coastline.
Clovelly Beach
(4.8 miles – approx. 11 min drive)
- Historic village with cobbled streets
- Picturesque harbour
- Car free and sledges
- Quaint shops and eateries
Historic Harbor and Coastal Beauty
Clovelly is renowned for its historic village, with cobbled streets leading down to a picturesque harbor. While the beach itself is pebbly, its unique setting and the charm of Clovelly make it worth a visit. Enjoy exploring the village, visiting the harbor, and taking in the stunning views of the coastline. Clovelly offers a unique blend of history, beauty, and tranquility.
Peppercombe Beach
(3.2 miles – approx. 12 min drive)
- Secluded and tranquil setting
- Scenic walk through Peppercombe Valley
- Unique red sandstone cliffs
- Ideal for rock pooling and beachcombing
Secluded Serenity and Natural Beauty
Peppercombe Beach is one of North Devon’s hidden treasures. This secluded beach, accessible via a scenic woodland walk, offers a peaceful retreat away from the crowds. The beach is a mix of sand and pebbles, backed by red sandstone cliffs and lush greenery. It’s perfect for those looking to escape and enjoy the natural beauty of the Devon coastline.
Instow Beach
(10.9 miles – approx. 20 min drive)
- Calm waters ideal for families
- Lovely village with amenities
- Views of the estuary and boats
- Dog-friendly all year round
Family-Friendly and Maritime Charm
Instow Beach, located where the Taw and Torridge rivers meet, offers a different coastal experience with its estuary views and gentle waters. This sandy beach is perfect for families with young children, as the waters are shallow and calm. The village of Instow itself is charming, with a selection of pubs, cafes, and a traditional ice cream van to complete the seaside experience.
Westward Ho! Beach
(9.8 miles – approx. 21 min drive)
- Long sandy beach with a pebble ridge
- Variety of watersports available
- Family-friendly with amusements and facilities
- Unique name with historical significance
Family-Friendly and Victorian Charm
Just a short drive from Woolsery, Westward Ho! is a fantastic beach for families and watersports enthusiasts. It is known for its long, sandy stretch of beach, impressive pebble ridge and walks along the promenade with the colourful beach huts.
From rock pooling to kite surfing, there’s something for everyone. The Victorian seaside village adds charm, with plenty of cafes, shops, and attractions to explore. Oh, and don’t forget to have one of the famous Hockings ice creams with real clotted cream and a flake!
Hartland Quay
(9.5 miles – approx. 22 min drive)
- Dramatic cliffs and rock formations
- Excellent for photography and coastal walks
- Historic inn with dining options
- Wild and rugged beauty
Dramatic Cliffs and Rugged Beauty
Hartland Quay is a dramatic and rugged beach, perfect for those who appreciate wild natural beauty. The cliffs and rock formations here are truly spectacular, making it a popular spot for photography and coastal walks. While the beach itself is rocky, the scenery and the crashing waves provide a breathtaking backdrop.
The Wreckers Retreat at Hartland Quay Hotel is also a great place to end a walk and treat yourself to cheesy chips and cider with a view.
Welcombe Mouth Beach
(12.3 miles – approx. 25 min drive)
- Activities: Rock pooling, coastal walks, photography.
- Facilities: Limited parking, no lifeguards, and no facilities, so bring your own supplies.
- Access: A bit of a challenging walk from the car park, so suitable for adventurous visitors.
Secluded Haven and Unspoiled Natural Beauty
Welcombe Mouth Beach is a secluded haven located just a short drive from Woolsery. This hidden gem is perfect for those seeking tranquility and unspoiled natural beauty. The beach is characterized by its dramatic cliffs, rocky formations, and a picturesque waterfall that cascades onto the beach. It’s an ideal spot for rock pooling, exploring marine life, and enjoying the rugged coastline.
Tips for Visiting Best Beaches in North Devon:
- Check the Tides: Some beaches, particularly Welcombe Mouth and Hartland Quay, are best visited at low tide to fully appreciate their rock pools and formations.
- Pack Essentials: Some beaches have limited facilities, so bring your own food, water, and beach gear.
- Respect Nature: These beaches are part of delicate ecosystems, so be sure to take your rubbish home and respect the local wildlife.
Sylvie’s Cottage is perfectly situated to explore some of North Devon’s most stunning beaches.
Whether you’re looking for family fun, secluded coves, or dramatic coastal scenery, there’s a beach nearby to suit your needs. So pack your beach gear and head on out.
Check availability below and book your stay.
