Coastal North Devon
Ocean Backpackers Independent Hostel is the perfect base from which to explore the most magnificent beaches this area has to offer. North Devon is now a designated World Surfing Reserve, alongside other iconic protected surfing locations around the world, and home to a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The majestic sandy Beaches of Woolacombe, Croyde and Saunton Sands are all short car or bus ride away.
Based in the picturesque harbour area of Ilfracombe, Ocean Backpackers is surrounded by a dramatic landscape and sits on the edge of Exmoor National Park, a designated area of outstanding natural beauty.
Ilfracombe has a harbour beach, and a Victorian tidal pool, and Hele Bay offers great swimming for open water enthusiasts. Boats leave the harbour daily (weather permitting) on short wildlife, fishing, and diving trips, while the Oldenburg leaves twice a week to Lundy Island throughout the summer.
There are also many water sports on offer such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and Coasteering, making Ocean backpackers super convenient for an activity break.
The Southwest Coast Path runs through the town and is best walked between March and October. And if your preferred method of transport is two wheels, then you’ll be interested to know that the National Cycle Network (NCN) Route 27, the 99-mile Devon Coast to Coast route from Ilfracombe to Plymouth, combines the beaches and estuaries of North Devon with the lush green valleys of West Country rivers. Many sections are traffic-free and flat, making them ideal for families or less experienced cyclists.
Ilfracombe boasts burgeoning arts scene and is briming with Artists and galleries selling work to suit all budgets. In May there is an annual Arts Trail which is an independent collaboration of artists, artisans and galleries all located in Ilfracombe, mostly within a 20-minute walk of the High Street.
Ilfracombe is also home to Verity, a stainless steel and bronze statue created by Damien Hirst. The 20-metre-tall sculpture stands on the pier at the entrance to the harbour in Ilfracombe, looking out over the Bristol Channel towards South Wales.
Overlooking Verity and the historic harbour, is St Nicholas’ Chapel
Is perched on Lantern Hill. Reported to be the oldest working lighthouse in the country, it was first built in the 14th Century and was named St Nicholas after the patron saint of sailors.
Dating back to 1321 the chapel was built as a place of worship for the seafarers of Ilfracombe living and working around the harbour.
For more information on Ocean Backpackers visit their website https://oceanbackpackers.co.uk/
