Top 10 Instagrammable Places in North Devon

18th February 2020

Top 10 Instagrammable Places in North Devon

It’s no secret that North Devon is a photographer’s paradise. We’ve got dramatic seascapes, fairytale woodlands, quirky towns and coastal views that are second to none! Whether you live here or are visiting - there are plenty of picturesque locations for you to boast about on social. 

Rain or shine, North Devon is a dynamic melting pot of photo opportunities, our beautiful part of the country has a lot to offer. So where to start? Ahead, we round up some of our favourite locations to get snapping, uploading and celebrating!

Valley of rocks

(Source: _gemmabolton)

We certainly couldn’t write a blog about exceptional photo locations without mentioning the Valley of Rocks. Parallel to the sea and incredibly enchanting, this destination is oh-so-popular with tourists and locals alike. Situated about ½ a mile away from Lynton, the moment you arrive you’ll be met with impressively rugged jagged cliffs, breathtaking coastal views and (if you’re lucky) a few feral goats! This fascinating valley is conveniently located on the South West Coast path and provides an easy, yet spectacular walk. You’ll find many a photo spot here, so get that camera ready!

Broadsands Bay

Source: flick_cowley)

Voted ‘Britains Happiest View’ in 2018, this secluded cove is one of North Devon’s hidden gems - and it’s easy to see why! Tucked in beneath wooded cliffs between Watermouth and Combe Martin - this wild beach bares views reminiscent of a Filipino archipelago. Baring a steep descent of around 200 steps, the cove has no lifeguards and no amenities, offering instead, complete seclusion. A pirate haven and constantly referred to as one of the UK’s top wild swimming beaches, be sure to snap one for Instagram and watches those likes roll in!

 Clovelly 

(Source: biancamecocci)

Carless Clovelly, how could we not mention you? This privately owned fishing village boasts a timeless elegance that you’d be hard-pushed to find anywhere else. As soon as you step foot down on the cobbles, you’ll be transported back in time and awash with inspiration. Traverse down the villages beautiful streets and you’ll discover rows of boats bobbing in the harbour. Whether it’s capturing the village’s floral bloom in spring, deep turquoise waters in summer or the nautical-themed Christmas lights in winter - Clovelly is an aesthetic hot-spot, no matter the season!

Watersmeet

(Source: drew_stagram)

Let’s head inland a little and take a look at the magical haven that is Watersmeet. Located on Exmoor and the meeting place of the East Lyn River and Hoar Oak Water, a dramatic river gorge and ancient woodland await you. Boasting views that look as if they were pulled straight from a fairytale, Watersmeet is the perfect place for a romantic storybook stroll. Wait for the sun to create a hazy glow through the trees and get snapping! 

Westward Ho!

(Source: kistography)

Moving along the coast again we head over to Westward Ho! one of North Devon’s most delightful seaside towns. Combining large expanses of sand with the famous ‘pebble ridge’, grassland and a diverse beachscape - there is a wide range of photogenic locations to take advantage of! Also, Westward Ho! Is THE place to catch the most spectacular sunsets (we specifically recommend heading up to Seafield Cliffs near the Pier House). 

Saunton Sands

(Source: richardkiftimages)

Moving along from Westward Ho! you’ll find Saunton Sands - and just wow! The first thing you’ll notice is the sheer vastness, this beach boasts miles of golden sand and is a popular spot for photographers, surfers and families. We recommend driving along Croyde Road/Saunton Road and pulling in at one of the many spots to admire the view in its full panoramic glory. 

Blackchurch Rock

(Source: the_overweight_photographer)

If you’re in search of the ruggedly impressive, then look no further than Blackchurch Rock. This extraordinary rock is located on Mouthmill Beach near Hartland and is accessible via a beautiful walk through Brownsham Wood (which is carpeted by beautiful bluebells in spring). The monumental arch that is Blackchurch Rock is an iconic location for many photographers.

Speke’s Mill Mouth

(Source: craig_joiner)

Close to Hartland again is another natural beauty - Speke’s Mill Mouth, one of the most popular waterfalls in North Devon. Wildflowers flourish and seabirds swoop over coastal outcrops at this peaceful location. The waterfall itself drops 48 metres to the rocky beach below and provides a visually stunning photo opportunity. 

Lundy Island

(Source: catgodders)

If you can make a trip to Lundy Island, located 12 miles off the coast of North Devon, then we’d absolutely recommend packing your camera! Wide spaces, big skies, diverse wildlife and terrain await you as you traverse this characterful island. If unspoilt scenery, dramatic views and fascinating wildlife are on your ‘to shoot list’ then Lundy should definitely be at the top of your schedule.

Appledore

(Source: spetersonit)

Lastly, we come to one of North Devon’s most atmospheric fishing villages - Appledore. Explore a maze of aesthetically pleasing, pastel-coloured houses as you admire the floral displays and lobsters pots that speckle the cobbled streets. The image of simple seaside pleasures is one to be caught here. Don’t forget to take a stroll along the quay, where, as well as panoramic views, you can spot traditional fishing vessels dotted along the shore.

So there you have it, some of our favourite locations around North Devon to grab some Instagram-worthy shots. Of course, we’d love to hear your suggestions and favourite places to get snappy and even better if you have any photos to share with us! Head over to our Facebook group, North Devon Captured and post your favourite shots! Or share them with us on Facebook, Twitter or tag us on Instagram!