Bideford Travel Guide

Plan your next trip to Bideford with this comprehensive travel guide featuring must-visit places, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, local culture, transportation options, and more.


Introduction to Bideford

Bideford is a small historic port town located on the estuary of the River Torridge in Devon, West Country, England. With a rich maritime history, the town is often referred to as the “Little White Town” because of the white-washed buildings that line its streets. Bideford is an ideal destination for visitors looking to experience authentic English culture and outdoor adventures.

List of Places to Visit in Bideford

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Burton Art Gallery and Museum: This museum houses a collection of local art and historical artifacts, including paintings, pottery, and photographs.
  • Bideford Heritage Centre: Located in a former police station, this center features exhibits on the town’s history and maritime heritage, including old photographs, documents, and maps.
  • The Pannier Market and Butchers’ Row: This indoor market is home to local traders selling fresh produce, meat, and handmade crafts. Butchers’ Row is located just next door and houses several unique shops.

Natural Attractions of Bideford: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The South West Coast Path: This 630-mile long-distance hiking trail passes through Bideford and offers breathtaking views of the coastline.
  • The Tarka Trail: This former railway line has been converted into a 180-mile cycling and walking route that passes through Bideford.
  • The North Devon Biosphere Reserve: This unique ecosystem is home to hundreds of species of plants and wildlife and offers visitors the chance to explore pristine landscapes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bideford

  • The Hartland Quay Walk: This 7.5-mile circular hike takes visitors from the Bideford Bay to the Hartland Peninsula and offers stunning views of the coastline.
  • The Ruby Country Cycling Route: This 35-mile cycling route starts in Bideford and takes cyclists on a tour of the hidden gems of North Devon, including charming villages and historic landmarks.

Best Things to Do in Bideford: Activities and Tours

  • Boat Trip on the River Torridge: Visitors can take a boat trip down the river and enjoy the stunning views of the estuary and surrounding countryside.
  • The Big Sheep: This family-friendly attraction offers a range of activities, including sheep racing, sheepdog trials, and a play area for children.
  • Westward Ho! Beach: This sandy beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bideford

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Bideford Heritage Centre and Butchers’ Row
Day 2 Hike the Hartland Quay Walk
Day 3 Visit The Burton Art Gallery and Museum
Day 4 Bike the Ruby Country Cycling Route
Day 5 Take a boat trip on the River Torridge
Day 6 Visit The Big Sheep
Day 7 Relax on Westward Ho! Beach

Food and Drink Scene of Bideford

Must-Try Dishes

  • Devonshire Cream Tea: A traditional English afternoon tea with scones, jam, clotted cream, and tea.
  • Bideford Pasty: A meat-filled pastry that originated in Bideford.

Local Beverages

  • Scrumpy: A traditional cider made from apples grown in Devon.
  • Dartmoor Brewery beers: A local brewery that produces a range of ales and beers.

Where to Stay in Bideford: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Royal Hotel: A historic hotel located in the heart of Bideford that offers comfortable rooms and great views of the town.
  • The Hoops Inn and Country Hotel: A 13th-century coaching inn located in a picturesque village just outside of Bideford.
  • YHA Bideford: A budget-friendly hostel located in a former Victorian gentleman’s residence.

What to Buy in Bideford: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Pottery from Bideford Pottery: This local pottery produces a range of handcrafted pottery items, including mugs, bowls, and vases.
  • Local honey from Quince Honey Farm: This family-owned honey farm produces a range of unique and delicious honey flavors, including heather honey and creamed honey.

Local Culture and Customs of Bideford

  • Bideford Folk Festival: This annual festival takes place over the August Bank Holiday weekend and celebrates traditional English folk music and dance.
  • Torrington 1646: A reenactment group that focuses on the Siege of Torrington, a major battle that took place during the English Civil War.

Best Time to Visit Bideford

The best time to visit Bideford is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is warm and sunny. However, visitors can also enjoy the festive atmosphere during the Christmas period, when the town is decorated with lights and Christmas markets take place.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bideford

Do:

  • Do try a Bideford Pasty.
  • Do explore the South West Coast Path.

Don’t:

  • Don’t miss out on the stunning views from the top of the hill in Victoria Park.
  • Don’t litter or harm the local flora and fauna.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bideford

Bideford is a relatively safe town, but visitors should take standard precautions and avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Bideford

There are several medical practices and hospitals in the town, including The Bideford Medical Centre and North Devon District Hospital.

Getting to Bideford: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bideford

The closest airport to Bideford is Exeter Airport, which is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes away by car.

Bus Stations Near Bideford

Bideford has its own bus station, which offers services to local and national destinations.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Bideford by train, with the nearest train station located in Barnstaple.

How to Get Around in Bideford

Bideford is small enough to explore on foot, but visitors can also use local buses or rent a bike to explore the surrounding countryside.

Where to Go Next from Bideford: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Clovelly: A picturesque fishing village located just a few miles from Bideford.
  • The Milky Way Adventure Park: A family-friendly adventure park located just a short drive from Bideford.
  • Exmoor National Park: A beautiful natural park with stunning views of the coastline and unique wildlife.

Conclusion

Bideford is a charming town that offers visitors the chance to experience authentic English culture, outdoor adventures, and delicious local cuisine. With its rich history and scenic surroundings, Bideford is the perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life and enjoy the beauty of the English countryside.