2025 Ilfracombe Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in August)

You can get the boat from Ilfracombe to Lundy Island weather conditions permitting. Check the shipping forecast or call the office prior to departure (usually on the morning or the evening prior to the sailing). These pictures were taken in the autumn of 2024. North Devon is far more open to the elements and catches the ocean swells to a greater extent than South Devon. Large breakers pound the shoreline and long beaches make North Devon an ideal place for surfing. Not that I am a surfer. I am happy to walk the coast path and observe from a distance. It's quite rugged in parts and involves a number of ascents and descents. Strong footwear and or a decent pair of hiking boots are a must on this section of the coast path 🙂.

Lundy Island can be reached by ferry from Ilfracombe or Bideford. A day trip allows you to explore the island for about three hours. Not long enough to walk the full circuit of the island. Rugged unspoilt beauty Lundy is a haven for wildlife and is rich in maritime history. There is accommodation on the island and or you can camp so may consider these options on my next visit. I managed to find time to grab a pint in the Marisco Tavern. An adventure on your doorstep 😄

This beautiful little seaside town is an underrated gem. We spent a day there and were pleasantly surprised by the Victorian terraces and wonderful sea views from the top of the hill. Ilfracombe is a quaint and unpretentious British seaside beauty, and long may she stay that way! In the harbor, you can see Damien Hirst’s sculpture, Verity, a thought provoking piece that seems to divide local public opinion!

an amazing sea side city

Day out in Ilfracombe Heart of north devon. Beautiful friendly seaside town close to barnstaple town. hotels and B&B within walking distance of the beach. #northdevon #staycation #devon #southwest #adventure #dayoff