4 days in North Devon
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in North Devon, I thoroughly recommend the The Mole Resort, nestled in Devon’s rolling hills. The resort’s stylish two-bedroom lodges with hot tubs and countryside views offer a cosy base for adventures through Exmoor’s beauty and coastal paths. Read on for some of the best things to do in North Devon.
Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway
Ride the highest and steepest fully water‑powered funicular in the world for just £7.50 each way, connecting Lynton (on the clifftop) and Lynmouth (down by the sea) The Grade II listed railway dates back to 1890 with water-filled tanks powering the ascent and descent .
Lynton is a picturesque village known for its Victorian charm, its pastel-hued buildings, sea views and boutique tearooms.
At the bottom of the railway, Lynmouth nestles in a gorge with a picturesque harbour and pebbled stream where you can dip your feet. It really is a stunning place and a beautiful area as a base for your stay. Glen Lyn Gorge (natural gorge) is in Lynmouth (pictured below) but I’d read the entrance fee wasn’t worth it.
We ate at the nearby Blue Bell Inn, overlooking the valley with its large beer garden. Midweek they have 2 x mains for £25 which was good value.
Other best things to do in North Devon that were recommended around this area are:
- Valley of Rocks – A valley with towering rock formations, roaming wild goats, and panoramic coastal views (5 min drive)
- Lynton & Barnstaple Railway (Woody Bay Station) – Ride a restored narrow-gauge steam train through scenic Exmoor countryside (7 min drive)
- Watersmeet – A picturesque river gorge and National Trust site where two rivers meet. Offers woodland walks, waterfalls, and a tearoom in a former fishing lodge (10 min drive)
Watermouth Castle
Set along the coast is Watermouth Castle – a quirky theme park and fairytale fortress. Inside are retro fairground rides, including a steep toboggan, fairy and gnome lands and a massive Hobbledown Heath adventure playground.
When we visited out of school holidays there were no queues which was a relief! We used our Tesco vouchers for entry – usual price is £19. Would only recommend for children under 5 – it’s a good half day trip.
Hele Bay / Combe Martin
Around a 10-minute drive from Watermouth are Hele Bay and Combe Martin, which are quieter coves with dramatic cliffs. Both spots offer scenic coastal walks and a more peaceful alternative to the busier beaches nearby.
Ilfracombe
Ilfracombe’s picturesque harbour is the heart of the town, with colourful boats, cosy cafés, and fresh seafood. Just nearby, Wildersmouth Beach offers a peaceful spot to relax before walking up Capstone Hill for sweeping sea views, all best enjoyed with a scoop of local ice cream!
The unique Tunnel Beaches in Ilfracombe are a set of hand-carved tunnels from the 1820s, leading to sheltered coves once used as Victorian bathing pools. Please note: Tunnel Beaches were closed to the public when we visited.
Pine Lodge Pony Centre
Treat little ones to an unforgettable half-hour pony experience at Pine Lodge. For £26.40, children (3 and over) can groom, feed, ride on the leading rein, and earn a rosette. We met Chloe, a gorgeous Dartmoor Hill Pony!
Dunkery Beacon
Around a 30‑minute drive from The Mole Resort lies Dunkery Beacon, Exmoor’s highest point at 519m. From the nearby Dunkery Gate car park, it’s just a short, 1 mile climb to the summit. The views span moorland, valleys, and even South Wales’ Brecon Beacons. You may also be lucky enough to spot red deer or the iconic Exmoor ponies.
Other Things to do in North Devon
I’d 100% return to North Devon to explore more of the beautiful area. Some of the things to do that we missed but were recommended are:
- Woolacombe – award-winning, three-mile golden beach with spectacular coastal walks in every direction.
- Clovelly Village – picturesque, traffic-free harbour village clings to a 400-ft cliff featuring steep, cobbled streets, charming cottages
- Heddon’s Mouth – Nestled within Exmoor National Park, this peaceful coastal haven is reached via a gentle riverside walk through ancient woodlands.
East London Girl: Best Things to Do in North Devon
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