Authentic Experiences of North Devon Biosphere

Marwood Hill Gardens

This magical and very special 20-acre private garden with three lakes is set in a valley tucked away in North Devon only 4 miles from Barnstaple. Created in the late 1950s the gardens are a wonderful haven in which to relax and enjoy the impressive collections of plants, shrubs, and trees and experience the views and peaceful atmosphere. The garden has been featured on many garden programmes over the years and is enjoyed by visitors of all ages looking for inspiration, relaxation, or just a great day out with the family. The view across the valley from the Garden Tea Room is spectacular, the food served is delicious, and the Plant Sales area is sure to tempt you with a variety of unusual plants for sale. Dogs on leads are welcome too.

https://www.marwoodhillgarden.co.uk/

Arlington Estate National Trust

Arlington Court is a classical Regency house, an ornate yet homely interior boasting an Aladdin’s cave of collections, including seashells, model ships, and pewter. Other highlights include a hidden masterpiece by William Blake and the beautiful Beauvais Tapestries. The National Trust Carriage Museum in the old stable block houses one of the most significant collections of carriages in the country, with over forty Regency and Victorian carriages ranging from grand state coaches to humble governess carts. Also on display are the gold Speaker’s State Coach on loan from the House of Commons and Queen Victoria’s pony phaeton.

 https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/arlington-court-and-the-national-trust-carriage-museum 

Meeth Quarry Nature Reserve (Devon Wildlife Trust)

Meeth Quarry is unlike any other Devon Wildlife Trust nature reserve. Its industrial past has dramatically shaped its present. For nearly 100 years it was a series of busy clay quarries and mines. The legacy of this industry has created a very diverse landscape. Today, two enormous lakes and several massive piles of clay spoil dominate its features. Elsewhere there are ponds, woodland, bogs, and grasslands. Together these make Meeth nature reserve a home for a diverse range of wildlife Devon Wildlife Trust bought the old clay pits at Meeth and turned them into a stunning nature reserve. Opened in 2013, the 150 hectares are species-rich and make a lovely day out for all the family.

Meeth Nature Reserve incorporates six threatened wildlife habitats, supports 18 species of national importance, and offers a haven for a huge range of birdlife, making it an excellent winter wildlife-watching destination. You can combine your visit with a bike ride along the Tarka Trail, which runs through the Nature Reserve. 

https://www.devonwildlifetrust.org/nature-reserves/meeth-quarry

Wembworthy Woods (Forest England)

At Heywood Wood there is a one and a half hour circular walk through attractive woodlands that also offers a small car park and an opportunity for cycling. The walk takes you past a veteran of the Eggesford Estate, the magnificent Douglas Fir planted in around 1840, and other conifers planted early in the Forestry Commission's history. There are good walking tracks throughout the woods and a good variety of trees, with an abundance of flowers by the way. At the northern end of the wood, stand the remains of an early medieval motte and bailey castle. Motte and bailey castles are medieval fortifications introduced into Britain by the Normans. This type of castle was made up of an artificial mound, or motte, on which was built a wooden or stone structure known as a keep. Next to this at least one bailey, a fortified embanked enclosure containing additional buildings, would be built. There is a great view from the top.

Eggesford Forest

Eggesford Forest is home to the very first trees planted by the newly created Forestry Commission back in 1919. Since then, the forest has continued to gather mementos of the past with several commemorative tree avenues, and a granite stone unveiled by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 1956 to mark the millionth acre of Forestry Commission planting. There is ample parking plenty of good walks within the forest. You can enjoy cycling horse riding, and deer watching as well as taking advantage of the many picnic areas available. The forest is a working landscape, so you are advised to follow site signs to avoid injury, disturbance or distress to yourself, other people, wildlife, and farm animals.

Eggesford Crossing Cafe

Fully licenced and dog friendly, the cafe uses locally sourced ingredients and serves breakfast, lunches, and is open every Friday evening with a varied menu. 

Abbeyford Woods

Explore the sights and sounds of Abbeyford Woods, near Okehampton. These beautiful woods with stunning walks have paths for all. You can walk the Tarka Trail and follow the River Okement, or just wind your way through the woodland. Abbeyford is also a great place to discover the changing colours of the seasons. On a walk through this beautiful wood, you will see majestic Douglas fir trees, and pass through areas of autumnal gold beech trees alongside the banks of the Okement River. With its varied tree species structure and crystal clear river, it is no wonder that wildlife also flourishes in these woods.

 https://www.forestryengland.uk/abbeyford-woods 

Belstone Village

Nestling 1,000 feet up on the northern edge of Dartmoor, above the Skaigh Valley, where the river Taw tumbles over the rocks, lies Belstone Village, a little haven of piece with only 250 inhabitants. Situated on the northern fringe of Dartmoor and fully within the National Park, it is rich in varied habitats which support a diverse array of plants, insects, birds and mammals. Around a third of the Parish is designated for nature conservation within the North Dartmoor Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), and recently also designated as the Dartmoor Special Area of Conservation being identified as of European importance for upland moorland. Within the Parish’s part of this site is dwarf shrub moorland, valley mire, acid grassland and bracken areas. This habitat in turn supports wildlife such as ring ouzels, buzzards, ravens, whinchat, wheatear and other moorland birds as well as diverse mosses, lichens and ferns. It forms one of the last vast ‘wilderness’ areas left in Britain.

 https://belstonevillage.net/ 

River Torridge

Perfect for a slow paddle or row, the River Torridge, from its confluence with the River Taw at Appledore the Torridge estuary provides nine miles of fascinating and varied scenery. You can hire sturdy kayaks suitable for beginners from Bideford Bicycle Hire and enjoy this part of North Devon’s Biosphere Reserve from a completely different perspective. Paddle yourself beneath Bideford’s famous Long Bridge or head upstream past saltmarsh and reedbeds towards the iron bridge at Landcross to see this part of North Devon from a ‘Tarka the otter’ viewpoint! This is the place to see otters. Be aware that otters can be very sensitive to human disturbance, particularly those accompanied by dogs. You don’t need to venture out of the tidal reaches to see otters above the bridge at Annery Kiln. 

Kayaking is permitted on the river when the salmon are not running in the summer

Braunton Burrows

A massive dune system that is literally "otherworldly". It has over 500 species of flowering plants, marvellous orchids in May and June, butterflies throughout the summer. Braunton Burrows is owned and managed by Christie Devon Estates and is at the core of the Biosphere 

It is a place where a variety of interests coexist, from land management through livestock grazing to use for MOD training exercises. It is also popular with hikers, dog walkers and nature lovers. Dog walkers are asked to respect a few simple guidelines in respect to exercising their animals around livestock, such as keeping dogs on leads in areas where cattle are grazing. Signage on stiles and gates gives information on grazing status. 

 https://www.visitdevon.co.uk/northdevon/things-to-do/braunton-burrows-p2526273 

Crow Point

Crow Point is a peninsula that extends into the Taw & Torridge estuary and is part of the Braunton Burrows nature reserve. It is a beautiful location with amazing views and home to many types of sea and estuary birds. It is not an easily accessible place, so is often quieter than some of the more accessible beaches of Saunton, Croyde, and Woolacombe making it a hidden delight for locals and visitors. The area is surrounded by beautiful beaches which work their way around to Saunton Sands beach, but towards the middle of the estuary are some soft mud banks which can be dangerous.

From one side there are clear views along the River Taw into Barnstaple, from the other you can see Instow and Appledore that sit on either side of the River Torridge. There are not many places in the UK where two major rivers meet at a single estuary, but the meeting of the rivers creates unpredictable tides and high winds which have ravaged Crow Point meaning both the appearance and the coastline have changed dramatically over the years.

 http://www.explorebraunton.org/crow-point.aspx 

Saunton Sands

A key component of North Devon's golden coast, Saunton Sands is a long straight sandy beach backed by the impressive Braunton Burrows. This is a popular beach with surfers and families due to the long stretch of water perfect for swimmers and surfers.

There is a range of food outlets, toilets, and beach shops with easy disabled access. Dogs are allowed on the beach all year. Walks to Crow Point are refreshing and provide some amazing views across the coastline.

 https://www.sauntonbeach.info/ 

Isley Marsh and Home Farm Marsh

 RSPB 

 Isley Marsh  sits on the southern edge of the SSSI-designated Taw-Torridge Estuary. It’s the saltmarshes and intertidal mudflats that make this stretch of the estuary so attractive for overwintering birds. Wildfowl, waders, and gulls come to the area for the invertebrates that dwell in the estuary mud and the valuable shelter of the vegetated marshes. In January, the list of potential bird finds is staggering.

Home Farm Marsh, at Lower Yelland, is also situated on the Taw/Torridge estuary, bordering the Tarka Trail, a popular path and cycleway. Owned and managed by the Gaia Trust who is keen to enhance the biodiversity within Home Farm Marsh, and is working to restore the Marsh to its former status as a wetland. 

 https://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/isley-marsh/ 

 https://www.gaiatrust.org.uk/home-farm-marsh.html 

Braunton Marsh

The collection of separate pastures, collectively known as the Braunton Marshes, represents a unique microcosm of traditional rural life in North Devon. The enclosure of the Marsh in 1811 for cattle grazing, and its continued management by the Braunton Marsh Inspectors and by the Braunton Marsh Internal Drainage Board, have created an invaluable example of traditional farming practices and methods of land drainage. Braunton Marsh is one of the few remaining marshes to be managed by an independent Internal Drainage Board.

Torrington Commons

Towards the end of the 12th century a ‘large waste called The Common’ was given to the people of Torrington. In 1889 the rights to this land were transferred, by an act of parliament, to an elected Committee of Conservators. They now administer 365 acres of land surrounding the town on all but the eastern side. The area is freely accessible to all and visitors can walk the 20 miles of footpaths, ranging from Great Torrington Golf Course in the north, ancient wood and wild flower meadow in the west and dropping down to the beautiful river Torridge valley to the south of the town. There is access from the Tarka Trail for walkers. Car parks are available off the Bideford road to the west (old bowling green), and in Torrington itself.

 https://www.torringtoncommons.org/ 

Fremington Quay

Situated on the Tarka Trail and enjoying panoramic views of the river Taw, Fremington Quay is an ideal place to start your journey or take a well-earned break. Fremington was once an important, busy port with goods arriving and departing from all over the World. A railway line was created for carrying goods, which now forms part of the Tarka trail. The Heritage Centre at Fremington Quay offers a fantastic, interactive journey of local history and tells stories told by local villagers and workers. What was once the old station is now a bustling cafe serving some of the most delicious cakes, all year round served in a surrounding, rich in history. 

Free car parking, a bike hire service, and a cafe all make Fremington the ideal place to start or end your Tarka Trail walk or bike ride, but there is also a children’s play area, grassed picnic area, and many paths to explore along the estuary that makes Fremington a great place to visit.

 https://www.facebook.com/fremington.quay/ 

Rosemoor Gardens

RHS Garden Rosemoor is an enchanting garden nestled in the beautiful Torridge Valley and home of Tarka the Otter and located within half an hour of Dartmoor National Park. Surrounded by woodland, the garden is rich in variety throughout every season and features inspiring planting displays enhanced by the natural beauty of Devon. These include the largest rose gardens in the South West; the stunning Hot Garden; the brand new RHS Chelsea Gold Medal winner designed Cool Garden; a Devon Cottage Garden; lake, stream and waterfall; The Fruit and Vegetable Garden; a Victorian Stumpery; natural flower meadows and bluebell carpeted woodlands. There is plenty for families too with themed fun family activities every school holiday including children’s entertainment and shows, garden art, and craft workshops, or become a budding gardener as you sow and grow along with us. Every day there are self-guided adventure trails around the garden and two natural play areas to really stimulate creative play. The award-winning Garden Kitchen restaurant serves seasonal menus full of quality garden and local produce along with freshly baked cakes and scones. Enjoy delicious afternoon tea, Sunday carvery, or eat alfresco in the garden. There is also great shopping with a range of top-quality plants in the Plant Centre, including the RHS Award of Garden Merit and plants that are approved RHS Perfect for Pollinators. The Plant Centre offers a 5-year hardy plant guarantee. Find a wide selection of gifts, books, stationery, and garden accessories in the shop.

 https://www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/rosemoor 

Powlers Piece

The huge woodland of  Powler’s Piece  is a wonderful place to explore.

Bucks Mills

The National Trust, Bucks Mills is a picturesque retreat that has been trapped in a bygone age. This charming hamlet is immune to the trappings of the 21 century and oozes a sense of history and adventure. Its beauty lies in its uncommercialised status, with no pub, or shop, just the raw atmosphere of the coastal scenery and woodland that surrounds it. It is an ideal location for artists, photographers, and families to explore and take in the ambiance of such purity.

 https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/bideford-bay-and-hartland/features/bucks-mills-cabin 

Hartland Point

Hartland Point is where the Bristol Channel meets the Atlantic Ocean, and the currents are so fierce as a result that the Romans used to call the point 'The Promontory of Hercules'. Part of the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this stretch of coastline is one of the most dramatic in the British Isles. Breath-taking coastal scenery and cliff-top walks are all to be found. Here in the cliffs and foreshore, you can view spectacular evidence of geological events which took place over 300 million years ago. The rocks are sandstones and mudstones that were laid down around 320 million years ago in what was then a brackish sea. Of particular interest are the striking patterns that can be seen in the faces of the cliffs. These tell a dramatic story of ancient forces that have helped to shape the Earth as we see it today. 

Looking south from the quay car park, you can see a hanging valley and abandoned alluvial tract of the Milford Water. The truncated valley bottom can be seen clearly. Please be aware: There are high cliffs and dangers of being cut off by the incoming tide. There is also little or no sand, making walking difficult. The walk from Hartland to Hartland Quay is about 5km, some is on-road, so care should be taken, especially around Stoke where there are no footpaths. 

https://www.hartlandpeninsula.co.uk/

Heddons Mouth

Set on the rugged North Devon coast between Combe Martin and Lynton is the rocky cove of Heddon’s Mouth. As the name suggests the cove sits at the mouth of the River Heddon which has carved a deep valley to the rear of the beach. The beach here is made up of medium-sized rounded rocks, like super-sized pebbles. The (small) river runs down the middle of the beach and to either side cliffs rise up. This is a fairly out-of-the-way spot and is mostly visited by ramblers these days. In the past, it was a favourite haunt of smugglers who appreciated its remoteness. In fact, the cove is so isolated that during World War II the crew of a German U-Boat were able to come ashore in search of fresh water and relaxation without the fear of being spotted!

 https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/heddon-valley/trails/heddons-mouth-circular-walk 

Lundy

Lundy is owned by the National Trust and managed by the Landmark Trust. For such a small island, there’s a lot going on. Lundy is known for its excellent walking and as the perfect place to see puffins and other special seabirds, but did you know you can also go climbing, diving, fishing, and even letterboxing! There are also plenty of warden-led activities in peak season, including Rockpool Rambles, Snorkel Safaris, guided walks, and visitor talks. No visitor can fail to be impressed by the sense of space, the Island’s natural beauty, its silence, and its life. It is also a place for those with special interests: birdwatchers, divers, climbers, plant enthusiasts, archaeologists, geologists, and historians. For those of a historical bent Lundy’s buildings and monuments will fully occupy their day without getting any further than the Halfway Wall. Naturalists might want to get a little further to see the wild Soay Sheep and the Sika Deer in their natural habitats.

 https://www.landmarktrust.org.uk/lundyisland/ 

Wheatland Farm

Enfolded within Wheatland Farm Nature Reserve, in the heart of rural Devon, you’ll find wind-powered eco-lodges (two with hot tubs), boats, bikes, abundant wildlife, but never more than 26 guests. Three south-facing eco-lodges in a meadow are screened from each other with trees. A large straw bale lodge overlooks a wildlife pond complete with paddleboards - so you can get up close! Or you can stay in charming stone-built Otter Cottage (sleep 4), by the fish-pond in the central farmyard. This is a ‘holiday with heart’ - your stay is what funds the ongoing conservation work. To thank you, owners Maggie and Ian are always delighted to take you on a personal nature walk at your convenience. And because Wheatland is farmed for wildlife rather than food, you’re free to explore all 21 acres, including nationally-recognised Popehouse Moor Site of Special Scientific Interest, where over 200 species of flowering plants have been recorded, along with 9 species of bats, 14 dragonflies, nearly 20 types of butterflies, plus barn owls, dormice, and orchids.

 https://www.wheatlandfarm.co.uk/ 

Castle Hill Gardens, Filleigh Estate

A magnificent historic home and garden venue for all seasons. The surroundings are magical, punctuated with an array of eye-catching mystical follies, temples, and lakes. The house has a timeless elegance, and offers weddings, and corporate events. You can take a picnic and attend an outdoor theatre production, or merely come to stroll through the wonderful gardens. Your visit to Castle Hill will be a memorable one. 

 https://www.castlehilldevon.co.uk/ 

Quince Honey Farm

Quince Honey Farm on the edge of South Molton is a family-run business that was first established in 1949. Now in its third generation and with over 1500 hives, they are always refining new beekeeping techniques and growing in knowledge. Visit the working honey farm, which is set in over 40 acres, with beautifully landscaped Nectar gardens that are planted with millions of bee-friendly plants. Offering a whole day out, full of bee-related activities for everyone! During your visit, you can head to the Honey Factory for a guided tour and learn all about how bees make honey, enjoy a honey tasting session and roll your own beeswax candle. There are viewing windows into the honey production areas so you can get a close-up look at how honey is extracted from the hive and then bottled in jars ready for sale in the shop.

 https://quincehoneyfarm.co.uk/ 

South Molton Pannier Market

South Molton Pannier Market is a Grade I listed Guildhall which was constructed between 1739 and 1741. Originally, goods were sold in the Old Market House in the town which was built to replace the shambles of butchers and other small shops which stood around the Market Square. In 1860 South Molton Town Council made the decision to build a new covered area for stallholders - the present Pannier Market. Historically the markets were open-air, held in what is usually called (regardless of its actual shape) the Market Square or Market Place. A Pannier Market is a form of indoor market especially popular in Devon. They take their name from the panniers once used to carry goods to market on the back of pack animals. South Molton Market is held here every Thursday and Saturday from 9 am to 1.30 pm hosting about 70 local businesses selling a wide range of locally produced, reared, and grown foods including fruit and veg, bread, fresh fish and meat, eggs, and pasties. Other goods available include flowers, clothing, jewellery, plants, antiques, and handcrafts, etc. Sunday events at the market include Salvage Fairs and Flea Markets.

 https://southmoltontowncouncil.co.uk/the-pannier-market/ 

Longlands Luxury Camping

Longlands offers luxurious glamping close to the glorious North Devon coast. It boasts breath-taking views and is just five minutes from the coastal village of Combe Martin. Longlands recently won their sixth Gold award at the South West Tourism Awards for 'Best Glamping site in the South West'! There are five thoughtfully positioned safari tents (each sleeping six) come furnished with vintage leather sofas, luxurious linen and a blanket box filled with family-friendly games. At the heart of each identical lodge is a fully equipped kitchen with a wood-burning stove, keeping the cosy interior warm in all weathers whilst also providing a means of cooking. Not only that, each country-inspired abode has its very own shower room (and separate en-suite), with flushing loo and basin, plus a wide range of natural aromatherapy products.  

 https://www.longlandsdevon.co.uk/ 

Lynton Lynmouth Cliff Railway

It is the UK's only fully water-powered railway and bronze winner of Devon's Large Attraction of the Year 2018. Built in 1888, it remains the world's highest and the steepest fully water-powered railway and one of three examples left in the world. With 862ft of steep track and an elevation of 500ft, the railway provides a memorable experience for all that visit it. A family attraction for all ages and dogs are welcome too. The Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway is open daily from 10:00 am between February and November. Please check for the closing times which do vary throughout the season. The tickets are purchased immediately prior to your trip and are not based upon timetables. The Cliff Railway operates continuously and waiting times are therefore minimal. Children under 4 travel free.

The Cliff Top Café is a Grade II listed building perched high on the clifftop with spectacular views across Lynmouth Bay. It is perhaps the most beautiful location for a Traditional Devon Cream Tea in the West country. The Cliff Top Café offers a range of freshly prepared sandwiches, homemade cakes, light lunches, and vegetarian, vegan, and GF options to eat in or take away; we're licensed for the sale of alcohol with a choice of prosecco, wines, and local ales, and of course, we do soft drinks and freshly ground coffee too. The Cliff Top Café has a five-star hygiene rating, level access, free WiFi, WC facility, and well-behaved dogs are welcome too. Lynton & Lynmouth has much to offer and taking the time to explore England's 'Little Switzerland' will complete any day out to the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway.

 https://www.cliffrailwaylynton.co.uk/ 

Lynton Barnstaple Railway

Steam trains through rolling countryside, with views out to wild moorland and the rugged coastline. Originally opened in 1898, and closed in 1935; what you can see today at Woody Bay is just the beginning of an exciting project to rebuild one of the world's most famous and picturesque narrow gauge railways; the legendary Lynton & Barnstaple Railway. You board your train - comprised of restored heritage carriages - at Woody Bay Station, and travel to Killington Lane and back on a two-mile round trip behind a narrow-gauge steam locomotive. The complete trip lasts about 25 minutes. Tickets are valid all day so you can ride as many times as you like. Return anytime within 28 days and travel all day at half-price. This initial section allows our visitors to experience a taste of what will one day become one of the ultimate narrow-gauge treasures of the world as they once again travel by train along the original route above the delightful Heddon Valley near Parracombe in Exmoor's National Park.

 https://www.lynton-rail.co.uk/ 

War Horse Valley Country Park

Parsonage Farm has been farmed by the same family for nearly 100 years and is the farm around which the book War Horse by Michael Morpurgo was set, along with the parish of Iddesleigh. It was also once home to Revd John ‘Jack’ Russell, the first breeder of the terriers to which he gives his name. This beautiful hidden part of Devon boasts stunning scenery of rolling hills and valleys with Dartmoor as its magnificent backdrop. Come and explore War Horse Valley – its farming history, its people, and its Wartime stories, and of course the place where the story of Joey and Albert was born.

 https://www.warhorsevalley.co.uk/ 

Hatherleigh Historic Market Town

A town famed for its busy Tuesday market, Hatherleigh is a town that has prospered for generations thanks to its links to agriculture and the wool trade. Roman remains on the outskirts of the town indicate that the town has been settled for hundreds of years; the oldest building in Hatherleigh is its parish church, which dates predominantly to the 15th century but retains some Norman elements. Several of the town’s thatched and cob houses are also dated to the 15th century. The town has a strong sense of community, with numerous events and clubs. Hatherleigh Carnival in November sees flaming barrels dragged down the steep high street on a sled, while the Hatherleigh Arts Festival each July sees musical performances, arts, crafts, and more.

 https://www.devonguide.com/hatherleigh 

Forda Farm B&B

Find out what life is like living and working on a busy farm. Meet the animals and take a walk around the farm too. Situated on the North Devon and Cornwall border, Forda offers a real taste of Devon life.

 https://fordafarm.com/ 

Wessex Pantry

Wessex Pantry produces award-winning venison and game pies. A family-run business delivering quality pies that can be ordered online or can be seen at food festivals across the country. Using Devon’s finest local ingredients, the pies are hand-crafted using traditional methods, offering a range of mouth-watering treats.

 https://www.wessexpantry.co.uk/ 

Clovelly Historic Village

The picturesque, ancient, fishing village of Clovelly is uniquely special and was once owned by the Queen of England. From Elizabethan days until today, Clovelly has been in private ownership, which has helped preserve its original atmosphere.   Clinging to a 400-foot cliff, it has no vehicular traffic, just donkeys and sledges. 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. It combines a rich environment and an historic village, with so much to see and explore. This famous cobbled street, known as 'Up-a-long' or 'Down-a-long', was built of stones hauled up from the beach. Man-powered sledges transport all goods to the village, from groceries to furniture. 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. The many literary and artist connections; Charles Kingsley, Charles Dickens, William Turner and Rex Whistler, all help to make this a unique experience. Kingsley lived here, Dickens wrote about it, Turner painted it and Whistler featured it in much of his work.

There is much to see and do such as watching the film of the history of the village, visiting the extensive souvenir shop in the Visitor Centre, watching skilled craftsmen in the converted stable-yard creating beautiful silks and pottery before exploring the village where you can visit two museums, Kingsley Museum and Fisherman’s Cottage. Or book and take a village tour with a guide who is a mine of information about village history and traditions.

Clovelly has two hotels: the 400-year-old New Inn, in the heart of the village and the C18th Red Lion on the quay, which provide delicious lunches, dinners and Devon cream teas. There is the Quay Shop at the harbour for take-aways to enjoy on the quay while watching the harbour traffic come and go. Boat trips are available to take you along the dramatic coastline. Once a bustling fishing port, Clovelly was renowned for its herring and mackerel and, although fishing has declined, it is still very much a part of village life. Clovelly is also today famous for its lobsters (and crabs), which are sent away as far afield as France and Spain. In past centuries, the coastline was occupied with smuggling, wrecking and piracy and was notorious for shipwrecks, so since 1870, Clovelly has also had its very own lifeboat. Visit one of our annual festivals such as the “Seaweed Festival” in June, “Maritime Festival” in July, “Lobster and Crab Feast” in September and the “Herring Festival” in November and there’s no extra admission charge. For those who do not want to walk back up, there is a fare-paying Land Rover service for much of the year to return you to the top of the village where you can also visit Clovelly Court Victorian kitchen gardens and see its splendid herbaceous borders and magnificently restored Victorian glasshouses. It lies adjacent to the C13th parish church of All Saints.

Clovelly offers breath-taking scenery and lengthy walks along the cliff tops. Hobby Drive, built after the Napoleonic wars to give employment to Clovelly's returning soldiers, winds its way through woods and offers superb views of both Clovelly harbour and Bideford Bay. Walking the other way takes you along the dramatic North Devon stretch of cliffs towards Hartland Point, taking in the little carved shelter of Angel's Wings and the Wilderness Summerhouse with its magnificent view over Mouth Mill Cove, once the haunt of smugglers.

The modest admission charge to Clovelly includes parking, the must-see film of the village history, two museums, Clovelly Court Gardens and a contribution to the preservation of this very special private estate. Dogs on leads are welcome.

Bursdon Moor

One of the last remaining areas of Culm Grassland can be found on this moor which has SSSI status.

This high open moorland has far-reaching spectacular views over the moor, woodland, and coastline stretching as far as the eye can see. On the high ground of Bursdon Moor, there are nine barrows, or burial mounds, which form part of a widespread group of prehistoric monuments in the Hartland area. They are the earliest known evidence for human activity on the moor and were constructed during the Bronze Age when burial practice changed from group burial within earth mounds (long barrows) to the burial of an individual beneath a circular earth mound. The barrows on the moor lie in two groups, with an isolated example to the south. Eight of them have been identified as bowl barrows (c.2400-1500 BC), with one, rare, bell barrow (1500-1100 BC) in the north-western group. In common with many other surviving barrow groups, they have a commanding position with wide-ranging views. People made the barrows by digging earth from a circular ditch, using this to make a central mound. Bronze Age barrows usually started out as the burial place of a single person. Later burials were often added to the earth mounds. The ditches filled in slowly over time, with mound heights possibly lowered by later ploughing. Medieval farmers are likely to have shared the moor for grazing their animals, and in 1842 the moor was described as being used for growing crops and for grazing. Long field-boundary banks and narrow ridges left by ploughing can still be seen. Some of the ridges, probably caused by deep ploughing to improve drainage in the 1900s, have gone straight over the top of the burial mounds. 

Bulworthy Project Charcoal Making

Bulworthy Project is a sustainable woodland enterprise based on 12.5 acres of woodland in Rackenford, Devon. Running charcoal-making courses and events and renting out a luxurious cabin built in the woods.

 https://www.bulworthy.uk/