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What's On in North Devon
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25th March 2021
As we head towards the next stage of lockdown restrictions lifting and we are given the go ahead to travel, you might be considering North Devon as a good place for a day trip or short break. If so, here are some of our favourite things to do in the region.
Watersports
The North Devon area is a real haven for surfers, kayakers, paddleboarders and more! The conditions here are perfect for a whole host of watersports, whether you’re a novice or someone who is well versed in riding the waves it doesn’t matter, the coast is littered with organisations offering equipment hire and tutorials, so everyone can join in on the fun.
Beginners to surfing and other sports should head to Westward Ho!, Woolacombe or Saunton Sands where the waves are a little gentler, but the more experienced of you will love Croyde Bay.
The beaches
Even if you’re not into water sports, the beaches are the place to be in North Devon. Pretty much the entire coast falls under the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and many of the beaches in this region are award winning, for their cleanliness as well as their beauty.
For swimming, you can spend time in Combe Martin or Lee Bay, which are also great for rock pooling or for relaxing strolls, picnics or quiet reflection, head to Putsborough or Woolacombe.
Coastal Walks
Speaking of the beaches, North Devon has easy access to the South West Coast Path which goes along the entire length of the AONB. For more challenging walks with incredible scenery, spend some time in Hartland where you can see the cliffs and rocks.
Enjoy the countryside
The coast isn’t all that North Devon has going for it. The Exmoor National Park covers parts of North Devon where you’ll find gorgeous views like the Valley of the Rocks and miles of moorland inhabited by wild ponies and mountain goats. The region is also home to Braunton Burrows, a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve – where you can experience the best of both worlds when it comes to coast and country.
See the puffins
Just off the coast in the Bristol Channel is Lundy Island, which is a haven for wildlife, including a population of puffins. The name of the island itself even translates to Puffin Island! As well as puffins, it is home to a host of rare migrating birds, bats and other marine life and can be accessed via either ferry or helicopter. There are a host of activities available on the island too which can be booked via the island manager and there are even places to stay – though there is no electricity on the island, so if you’re looking for a digital detox or to get back to a simpler way of life, maybe consider it for your next trip!
Of course, this is just a handful of the things you can see and do while in North Devon, check out a whole host of activities and attractions here.
Please note that although restrictions are lifting, there are still covid restrictions in place and this means that certain attractions and accommodation providers will have additional safety protocols in place. You can find out more about the UK’s journey out of lockdown on gov.uk/coronavirus.
© Visit Devon Community Interest Company