The local area

Find things to do

With so many things to see and do in North Devon, a visit here will have you spoilt for choice. Explore the beauty of Exmoor, take in the glorious countryside views on horseback, try your hand at riding the surf on one of the unspoiled beaches or indulge in a spot of star gazing – there really is something for everyone!

A view across Porlock Common, with Porlock Bay in the distance, Exmoor National Park, England.

Exmoor

With its incredible and diverse landscape that ranges from rugged and wild moors to fairytale woodland to quiet streams, it’s little wonder that Exmoor is called home by such an array of wildlife. Expect to see a plethora of butterfly species, red deer and of course, the iconic Exmoor ponies. If you fancy something a little more guided, enjoy a leisurely drive with Exmoor Safaris where you can hear about local legends, be shown hard to spot wildlife and learn fascinating facts about the flora and fauna.

Two young surfers on the beach

Surfing

With so much spectacular seaside right on our doorstep, it is the perfect opportunity to ride the waves! If you fancy taking a few lessons before you brave the surf yourself, Woolacombe Surf Centre is the place to go. A highly rated surf school with extensively qualified instructors, they’re a great option for everyone, from complete beginners to those who just want to polish up their skills. They also offer a range of other watersport activities if surfing isn’t to your tastes.

Grandmother introducing her young grandson to surfing as he sits on her surfboard at the water's edge. Both are wearing wetsuits and having fun in the sea.

SUP & Kayaking

Get up close and personal with our incredible coastline by enjoying paddle boarding and kayaking with OSKC Watersports. Offering everything from lessons for beginners, to guided tours, to hair raising coasteering, there is something to put a smile on everyone’s face!

Man fishing on the ocean from the back of his boat at sunset

Fishing / Boat Trips

Ilfracombe Sea Safari is a great way to get out and enjoy our stunning seas. Head off on a deep sea fishing trip and see if you can net yourself a fish or two, or try something a little less strenuous with a sunset safari – keep an eye out for seals and dolphins!

Star Gazing

Exmoor Dark Skies

Home Place Farm is in a designated International Dark Skies Reserve. With minimal light pollution, this is a place of rest, and on cloudless nights you will be be able to view thousands of stars. You can either enjoy the night skies by heading out yourself, or if you’d prefer something organised, you will find a range of events via the Exmoor National Park website.

No hour is wasted that is spent in the saddle

Horse Riding

If you fancy enjoying the local views on horseback, you’re in luck! Dean Riding Stables and Woolacombe Riding Stables are both nearby and offer plenty of superb hacks! There are lots of trail options and all abilities are catered for, so whether you want a gentle wander or something a little more fast paced like a canter along the sand, you’re sure to come away thrilled!

A male adult golfer walks to the green atop a links golf course in England.

Golf

With two nearby golfing options, lovers of this sport will find themselves well catered to! While away an afternoon, either with a casual game or some friendly competition with your loved ones. The Ilfracombe Golf Club also benefits from a pro-shop with a wide range of equipment to hire as well as a covered practice area, so you won’t need to pack your clubs!

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Lynton Cinema

If you fancy a trip to the cinema during your stay, why not pop over to the nearby Lynton Cinema? Cute and cosy, head off for an evening at the movies where you will find all the latest releases here as well as plenty of showtimes to choose from. Don’t forget to indulge in a little popcorn!

Lee Bay viewed by woman hiker, with rucksack and walking poles, on the South West Coastal Path in Devon UK. Grid reference 51.199265 -4.187370 photographed in July 2014 Copy space,horizontal photograph. CampHike2014

Walking on exmoor

There are lots of interesting places to wander in Challacombe! On the other side of the valley is the spectacular Shoulsbury hillfort, enclosing about five acres with double banks and ditches, and containing a Bronze Age barrow, with a Neolithic stone set nearby. Plus there is a wide variety of walks on Exmoor National Park.