Things To Do
in Ilfracombe
Ilfracombe is a charming seaside town located on the rugged North Devon coast in the United Kingdom. It is known for its picturesque harbor and stunning coastal views. Visitors can explore the historic Tunnels Beaches, where Victorian-era tunnels lead down to secluded beaches.
The town also features a variety of shops, restaurants, and accommodation options for tourists to enjoy a seaside holiday experience.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along the beautiful coastline. Enjoy breakfast at a local café with stunning sea views.
Visit the iconic landmark, Verity, and explore the Ilfracombe harbour. Try some fresh seafood for lunch at a quaint bistro.
Wind down with a choice of pubs or restaurants that offer live music. Take a relaxing stroll along the waterfront as the sun sets.
Begin at the Ilfracombe Museum to learn about the town's rich history. Follow it up with a visit to St. Nicholas Chapel, perched on the cliffs.
Enjoy lunch at a local tearoom before heading to the Chambercombe Manor, a hidden gem with intriguing stories. Take a leisurely walk in the gardens.
Dine in one of the historic pubs that have stood the test of time. Enjoy the cozy atmosphere and perhaps a local ale.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches
- Rich history and cultural heritage
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking and water sports
- Vibrant local community and events
- Good selection of restaurants and pubs
- Proximity to Exmoor National Park
- Limited public transportation options
- Higher cost of living compared to some other areas
- Seasonal tourism can lead to overcrowding
- Job opportunities may be limited
- Weather can be unpredictable with frequent rain
- Some areas may lack modern amenities
Best Activities in Ilfracombe
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience the breathtaking sight of whales migrating along the North Devon coast. Various tours are available that take you out into the waters for an unforgettable wildlife encounter.
Enjoy a variety of water sports including kayaking, paddle boarding, and surfing at the nearby beaches. Equipment rentals and lessons are available for all skill levels.
Explore the stunning North Devon coastline with numerous walking trails that offer scenic views of the cliffs and sea. The South West Coast Path is particularly popular for its breathtaking scenery.
Join a local fishing charter for a day of sea fishing. Suitable for both beginners and experienced anglers, it's a great way to relax and enjoy the ocean.
Stroll around the picturesque harbour, enjoy the views, and watch the boats come in and out. There are also shops and cafes to explore in the area.
Join guided tours to discover the rich wildlife of the area, including guided bird watching, seal spotting, and nature walks which are perfect for families and nature enthusiasts.
Visit local parks such as the Capstone Hill or Bicclescombe Park for a lovely picnic surrounded by nature, with beautiful views and plenty of open space.
Discover the beautiful countryside around Ilfracombe by biking through designated trails and routes. Bike rentals are available in the area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ilfracombe with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ilfracombe
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular spot offering panoramic views of Ilfracombe, the coastline, and the surrounding countryside. Ideal for sunset photography.
The picturesque harbour is perfect for capturing vibrant fishing boats and dramatic coastal scenes, especially during golden hour.
This striking 20-metre tall statue is not only a landmark but also a great subject for unique and artistic photo opportunities.
A beautiful beach area accessible by tunnels. The beach provides stunning views, unique geological formations, and great seaside photography.
Just a short drive from Ilfracombe, this village offers rugged coastal beauty and opportunities for dramatic sea cliff photography.
A quaint bay with a stunning coastline, ideal for capturing serene beach scenes and coastal landscapes.
A secluded cove with clear waters and sandy beaches, perfect for tranquil nature shots and beach photography.
Walking along this path offers multiple vantage points with breathtaking views of the North Devon coastline, ideal for landscape photography.
Food in Ilfracombe
Ilfracombe Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Indulge in a sumptuous platter of locally sourced seafood, including crab, lobster, and freshly caught fish. The best place to enjoy this delicacy is at The Quay Restaurant, overlooking the picturesque harbor.
Must-Try!
Savor the quintessentially English experience of Devon cream tea, featuring freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and homemade jam. Don't miss out on the delightful offerings at Hele Cornmill & Tea Room.
Treat yourself to a succulent serving of Exmoor lamb, renowned for its tenderness and exquisite flavor. The best place to sample this dish is at The Sandpiper Inn, where it is expertly prepared with local ingredients.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore a vibrant marketplace filled with an array of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and locally made treats. Held on selected weekends, the market is a treasure trove of delicious finds.
Take a stroll along the harbor and indulge in freshly prepared seafood delights from the charming stalls that offer a variety of fish and shellfish dishes, showcasing the best of local catches.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ilfracombe and the wider UK, it is customary to greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi'. A polite manner is appreciated, so saying 'please' and 'thank you' is essential in everyday interactions.
Maintaining a comfortable personal distance during conversations is important. Avoid standing too close to others, as this can be perceived as intrusive.
Being on time is considered a sign of respect in the UK. Whether attending social gatherings or professional meetings, arriving punctually is valued and appreciated by locals.
Safety
Tipping in Ilfracombe
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ilfracombe, as in the rest of the UK, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% of the bill if service has been good. In pubs, it is common to round up the bill or leave small change if ordering food. Tipping taxi drivers, hairdressers, and hotel staff for good service is also common.
In Ilfracombe, various payment methods are widely accepted. Cash is commonly used, but credit and debit cards are preferred by many establishments. Contactless payments, including mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay, are also popular. Visitors should be aware that smaller shops and cafes may have a minimum card payment limit.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a delightful time to visit Ilfracombe as the weather begins to warm up and flowers start to bloom. Expect mild temperatures averaging around 10-15°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities like walking and exploring the scenic coastline.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Ilfracombe. Visitors can enjoy warm temperatures, typically ranging from 15-20°C, perfect for beach activities and water sports. The town hosts various festivals and events, enhancing the vibrant atmosphere.
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage. Expect mild weather, with averages of 10-16°C, and fewer crowds. It’s a great time for hiking and enjoying the peace of nature before winter sets in.
Winter (December to February) can be chilly, with temperatures ranging from 3-8°C. While some attractions may have reduced hours, the town is less crowded and offers a cozy atmosphere. It’s a good time for indoor activities, local dining, and holiday celebrations.
Ilfracombe at Night
Hiking in Ilfracombe
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful sandy beach with scenic coastal paths and access to the South West Coast Path.
Offering stunning views of the coastline, this area has several trails that lead to the rugged cliffs and beaches.
A picturesque valley offering various hiking trails through woodlands and along the river, leading to coastal views.
A small, secluded beach accessible via scenic walks that also connects to the South West Coast Path.
A protected area with numerous walking trails showcasing the stunning landscapes and wildlife of the North Devon coastline.
A long-distance path that follows the scenic route of the River Taw and provides various access points for hiking near Ilfracombe.
Aiports
How to reach Ilfracombe by plane.
Located approximately 60 miles southeast of Ilfracombe, Exeter International Airport serves as a regional gateway with flights to various international destinations.
Situated around 90 miles southeast of Ilfracombe, Bristol Airport is one of the largest airports in the southwest of England, offering a wide range of flights to Europe and beyond.
Located approximately 120 miles west of Ilfracombe, Cardiff Airport is the main airport in Wales, providing international and domestic flights.
About 70 miles southwest of Ilfracombe, Cornwall Airport Newquay mainly serves domestic flights but also has some international connections, especially during the holiday season.
Although about 190 miles east of Ilfracombe, London Heathrow is one of the busiest international airports in the world, serving numerous global destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
This group represents the elderly population, which has a significant presence in Ilfracombe due to its appeal as a retirement destination.
This group includes individuals who are actively part of the workforce in the area.
This demographic includes families with children, which plays a role in local education and community activities.
A small but diverse group representing various ethnic backgrounds, contributing to the cultural fabric of Ilfracombe.
This group includes those enrolled in local educational institutions and reflects the educational demographic.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ilfracombe is known for its rugged coastline and beaches, making it a popular spot for surfing enthusiasts.
Local football clubs and community leagues contribute to the popularity of football among residents.
Cricket is a traditional sport in Ilfracombe, with local clubs hosting matches during the summer.
Thanks to its coastal location, sailing is a favored activity for many locals and visitors in Ilfracombe.
The nearby golf courses attract golf lovers who enjoy scenic views and well-maintained greens.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ilfracombe.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many establishments in Ilfracombe offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, with several restaurants dedicated to providing plant-based and cruelty-free dining experiences. Options include The Vegan Grill and The Pickwick Inn.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find a variety of gluten-free options at cafes and restaurants across Ilfracombe, such as The Quay Restaurant and The Hele Bay Pub & Restaurant, which cater to dietary requirements with dedicated menus.