Ilfracombe and Barnstaple for the day

Ilfracombe

is a stunning coastal town with white washed houses, grand Victorian villas and terraces. Nestling between the National Park of Exmoor to the East and the golden coast with the surfing beaches to the West. Ilfracombe is a town bursting with pride, with bustling shops, regular farmers markets and independent high street retailers providing you with choice, quality and a few surprises. In summer the main shopping streets and promenade are alive with colour from magnificent floral displays, winning Ilfracombe the honour of a 'Gold' award in Britain in Bloom for three years running and a Silver Gilt award in 2008.

 

No need to use the car as there are a number of attractions within walking distance including the award-winning Ilfracombe Aquarium, the unique Tunnels Beaches, fascinating Ilfracombe Museum, Larkstone Leisure Park, Hele Cornmill and Chambercombe Manor, one of Britain's most haunted houses.

If it's entertainment you are looking for, you will find numerous events and festivals throughout the year, many based on the quayside at the historic harbour and at the prestigious Landmark Theatre on the seafront.

 

The heritage harbour and quay are spectacular. The many pubs, restaurants and shops that surround the quay create a friendly continental atmosphere. It is from the harbour that boats leave to the magical Lundy Island, a place of outstanding natural beauty, which will provide you with an unforgettable experience.

 

There are many fine and award winning beaches, from secluded coves to the wide stretches of golden sand with crashing surf. For a unique beach experience visit 'The Tunnels' in Ilfracombe, holders of a blue flag and seaside award or Hele Bay to the east of the town also award winners, for good bathing and rock pool exploring.

 

Barnstaple

is the oldest borough in the country and is the commercial and agricultural centre of North Devon. A must visit for anyone seeking serious retail therapy. Saxons first settled in Barnstaple (Barum) over 1000 years ago; in 930AD it was a Saxon stronghold serving as a market for the surrounding countryside.

 

Today it has a wonderful mixture of Victorian, Medieval and Georgian architecture and is proud to be a multiple winner of Britain in Bloom. Visit the Barnstaple Heritage Centre, sited in a fine Grade 1 listed building to learn more about the town's 1000 year history. For more information on Barnstaple visit the local Tourist Information Centre.

 

As the premier town in North Devon you’ll find great bars, great restaurants and big name high street shopping. But that’s not what makes Barnstaple special. Not alone. That’s done by the independent boutique shops within the town, the proud local food producers selling their delicious delicacies in the Pannier Market and, of course, the town’s colourful history. It’s this mix of new and old, of modern and traditional that’s behind Barnstaple’s charm. We’d love you to share it with us.

 

Depart Approx 17.30