A picture-perfect region: discover North Devon and North Cornwall
There are few more naturally beautiful and unspoilt regions in the UK than North Devon and North Cornwall.
Sparsely populated, with hundreds of square miles of rolling countryside and a spectacular coastline, it is little wonder this part of the world is so popular with holidaymakers.
Although our holiday park is based in Devon we’re only a few miles from the Cornwall border, so you can experience the very best that both counties have to offer.
Perfect for those who love the great outdoors, the region is blessed with a coastline that is just waiting to be explored. But it’s also home to many pretty towns and villages. Here we pick out our top some of our favourite places of interest that we think are simply a must visit!
Bude
If you love big sandy beaches, enjoy watersports or walking and have a passion for towns that are somewhere between an up-to-date resort and a nostalgic getaway then Bude is definitely worth a visit. Voted Best UK Coastal Resort in 2016, Bude has so much going for it, including a vibrant town centre full of shops and places to grab a bite to eat.
Launceston
Walk around the narrow streets of Launceston and you get a real sense of the town’s ancient history. Up on the hill is a Norman castle and the town centre itself is still a hub of activity, serving the local agricultural community. Here you’ll find traditional butchers and bakers along with independent shops selling everything from books to pet supplies.
Holsworthy
Our nearest market town, which is situated in the beautiful countryside between Exmoor and Dartmoor. Holsworthy has a reputation for top local produce, with a strong agricultural heritage. There’s a farmer’s market here each week and the town has a mix of independent shops and places to eat.
Widemouth Bay
Just a short drive down the coast from Bude is Widemouth Bay. Popular with families and surfers (there are many surf schools located here), at low tide there’s hundreds of rock pools to explore! The southern section of the beach is also dog friendly year-round.
Crackington Haven
Described as an unspoiled secret cove, Crackington Haven is a small coastal village that was once a small harbour importing coal and limestone from Wales. It is a great spot for surfing and an ideal spot for families, with a gently sloping beach in an enclosed bay.
Boscastle
No visit to North Cornwall is complete without taking in a trip to Boscastle. This beautiful little harbour village made national headlines in 2004 when it was devastated by a flood – but it has been restored to its former glory. Regarded as one of Cornwall’s most romantic places, it is steeped in history and is credited with inspiring countless artists and authors with its remoteness and rugged beauty.
Tintagel
Steeped in myth and legend, Tintagel is famous for its links to the legendary King Arthur. Tintagel boasts dramatic sea views from the both the ruins of the castle on the headland and island. There is so much to see and do here, with Tintagel Castle renowned as one of the most iconic visitor attractions in the South West.
Bideford
In the Across the Devon border is the busy town of Bideford, . Here you’ll be able to sample pubs, music, restaurants and indulge in a little retail therapy. The lanes are lined with quirky shops, selling all manner of items. For cyclists and walkers there’s the Tarka Trail, which is free of traffic and a great way to explore the countryside.
Great Torrington
Built on the site of an ancient settlement, atop an island cliff with the River Torridge below, Great Torrington enjoys spectacular views out over the countryside. The town played a significant role in the English Civil War (Battle of Torrington, 1646) as is recognised as an important heritage centre.
Clovelly
Take a stroll among the picturesque houses as you walk down to the traditional fishing harbour at Clovelly. As part of a privately-owned family estate, no vehicles are allowed down the steep cobbled street, instead, goods are transported by sledge, often pulled by donkeys. Definitely worth a visit!
Westward Ho!
Renowned for its golden sandy beach, Westward Ho! Is a great venue for surfing and kite surfing. This family-friendly beach boasts Blue Flag status for its water quality, lifeguard presence across the summer season and toilet facilities nearby.