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What's On in North Devon
Welcome to the Itinerary Planner. Use this tool to build your own journey or choose from an exciting range of specially selected tours.
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20th September 2018
As the days get shorter and the leaves turn golden brown, it’s time to accept that summer is over and autumn is now in full swing. There’s no need to feel sad about it though because autumn in North Devon is brimming with reasons to get excited.
Whether you’re looking forward to hunting for conkers with the kids, cosy nights in or cider season, keep reading to find out about just some of the autumnal activities on offer.
Autumn Walks
Everyone knows that autumn days and evenings can be some of the most beautiful, with vibrant, changing leaves and fiery sunsets. North Devon is full of picturesque trails which are perfect for an evening stroll or a leisurely bike ride.
The Valley of Rocks provides a dry valley walk pinned against a backdrop of unique coastal views - the dramatic landscape makes it worthwhile whatever the weather.
For a walk through woodland full of gorgeous autumn colours, choose Heddon’s Mouth, starting at the Hunter’s Inn pub and arriving at the mouth of the Heddon river.
Perfect for sharing spooky, Halloween-themed stories along the way, Morte Point has a history of shipwrecks and smugglers as well as breathtaking scenery.
Autumn Events
The Appledore Book Festival is an annual event renowned across the country as one of the biggest and friendliest independent book festivals. Running from the 21st - 29th September, this year’s event is home to huge names including Michael Morpurgo and Mark Gillingham, as well as a wide array of events.
Exmoor Dark Skies Festival is running from the 20th October to 4th November and will play host to a huge array of after-dark entertainment. Enjoy night trails, dusk safaris of the local wildlife, moonlight swimming sessions and exciting workshops to teach you all about astronomy, astrophotography and night navigation.
Halloween is a huge event in North Devon with countless activities ready for guests and locals of all ages. Quince Honey Farm offers an entire Halloween week whilst The Big Sheep hosts a spooktacular Halloween party for kids.
Eateries To Visit
When it gets colder, there’s nothing better than a cosy pub lunch or dinner to warm you up. Well known in the area for its busy calendar, quiz nights and live music are no rarity at The Beaver. With pretty North Devon views and a warm, welcoming environment this pub is perfect for an autumnal evening out.
Get your entire autumnal food palette in one with The Taste of Autumn Artisan Food Fair at RHS Garden Rosemoor on 16th October. This event will be brimming with some of the highest quality food and drink in the West Country, all with a seasonal twist.
The beach may be cold at this time of year, but it’s typically quiet so the stunning views can be enjoyed in peace. Walk across Westward Ho! Beach to get your fix of fresh air, and warm up afterwards with a cup of tea and a cake in one of the area’s most popular cafes, Tea on the Green.
Places To Stay
For a bit of luxury, the Watersmeet Hotel is highly recommended, boasting a sea view and gorgeous autumn sunsets as well as a bistro, afternoon tea and spa.
Why not make your break the ultimate picturesque holiday? Marsdens Devon Cottages vary enough that there is something for everyone in every stretch of the area; opt for a self-catering townhouse by the coast or trek deep into the countryside for the epitome of peace.
For wellness and retreat breaks, The Saunton Sands Hotel sits upon the Saunton coast with enviable views and easy access to wherever you might want to explore in North Devon. It also has a beach with fantastic surfing conditions - don’t be put off by the time of year, as surfing conditions actually improve during the early autumn months!
Perfect for families, business meetings or couples breaks, the variety of rooms offered at The Barnstaple Hotel ensure everyone is catered for. Only a quick stroll from Barnstaple town centre, you have quick links to everywhere in the area.
We’re pretty sure we’ve covered enough to keep you and the whole family busy this autumn. Which spots will you be visiting? Jump over to our Facebook page and tell us everything about your upcoming visit!
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