Woolacombe Travel Guide

Discover the natural beauty, food and drink scene, activities, and more in Woolacombe, Devon. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Woolacombe

Nestled in the heart of Devon, Woolacombe is a picturesque coastal town that boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the UK. With towering cliffs, dramatic landscapes, and a thriving foodie scene, Woolacombe is the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and culture addicts alike.

Whether you’re traveling solo or with your family, this travel guide will help you plan the perfect Woolacombe itinerary.

List of Places to Visit in Woolacombe

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museum of British Surfing - a surfing museum that explores the history of the sport in the UK.
  • Chambercombe Manor - a historic house that dates back to the 11th century and is said to be haunted.
  • Arlington Court and Carriage Museum - a stunning Regency house that is home to a collection of horse-drawn carriages and antique cars.

Natural Attractions of Woolacombe: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Woolacombe Beach - a three-mile-long golden beach that is perfect for surfing, sunbathing, or swimming.
  • Morte Point - a beautiful cliff-top walk with breathtaking views of the Atlantic.
  • Baggy Point - a scenic headland with a variety of hiking trails and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Woolacombe

  • The Tarka Trail - a 180-mile-long cycling route that takes you through some of Devon’s most scenic countryside.
  • South West Coast Path - a 630-mile-long hiking trail that runs along the coastline of Devon and Cornwall.
  • Exmoor National Park - a designated area of outstanding natural beauty with a variety of hiking and biking trails.

Best Things to Do in Woolacombe: Activities and Tours

  • Surfing lessons - whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, Woolacombe is the perfect place to catch some waves.
  • Coasteering - a thrilling activity that involves scrambling, swimming, and jumping off cliffs into the sea.
  • Sea kayaking - explore the stunning coastline of Woolacombe from the water with a guided sea kayaking tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Woolacombe

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit Woolacombe Beach and try surfing
Day 2 Hike along Morte Point and explore the rock pools
Day 3 Take a sea kayaking tour
Day 4 Visit Arlington Court and Carriage Museum
Day 5 Spend the day coasteering
Day 6 Visit Chambercombe Manor
Day 7 Cycle the Tarka Trail

Food and Drink Scene of Woolacombe

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cream tea - a traditional Devonshire treat consisting of scones, clotted cream, and jam.
  • Devonshire seafood - Woolacombe is home to some of the freshest seafood in the UK, including crab, lobster, and mussels.
  • West Country cider - the region is known for its delicious, locally-produced cider.

Local Beverages

  • The Thatch - a traditional pub serving a variety of local ales and ciders.
  • The Jube - a lively bar that also hosts live music events.
  • The Red Barn - a beachfront bar and restaurant that offers stunning views of the coastline.

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

  • The Woolacombe Bay Hotel - a luxurious hotel with stunning views of the beach.
  • Ocean Backpackers - a budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of Woolacombe.
  • The Sandy Cove Hotel - a cozy guesthouse with ocean views and a restaurant serving locally-sourced dishes.

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

  • Surf gear - whether it’s a new wetsuit or a surfboard, Woolacombe has a variety of surf shops to choose from.
  • Local cheese - Devonshire is home to some of the UK’s best cheese, including Cheddar, Red Leicester, and Double Gloucester.
  • Handmade crafts - Woolacombe is home to a variety of local craft shops that sell unique, handmade items.

Local Culture and Customs of Woolacombe

  • Devon is known for its traditional folk music, which can be heard in local pubs and festivals throughout the year.
  • It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants and bars.

Best Time to Visit Woolacombe

The best time to visit Woolacombe is during the summer months (June-August), when temperatures are warm and the beaches are bustling with activity. However, be prepared for crowds and higher prices during this time.

If you prefer a quieter experience, visit in the shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October) when the weather is still mild but the crowds have dwindled.

Do’s and Don’ts of Woolacombe

Do:

  • Take a surfing lesson - Woolacombe is one of the best surf spots in the UK.
  • Sample some local seafood - you won’t find fresher seafood anywhere else.
  • Spend a day exploring Exmoor National Park - the scenery is breathtaking.

Don’t:

  • Forget your sunscreen - the sun can be strong, even on cloudy days.
  • Leave any litter on the beach - keep Woolacombe beautiful by disposing of your trash properly.
  • Ignore warning signs on the beaches - the ocean can be dangerous, so it’s important to heed any advice given by lifeguards.

Safety and Health

Safety in Woolacombe

Woolacombe is a safe destination, but as with any coastal town, it’s important to be aware of the dangers of the ocean. Always swim within the flagged areas and heed any advice given by lifeguards.

Health in Woolacombe

Devon has a high incidence of Lyme disease, a bacterial infection that can be contracted through tick bites. Take precautions such as wearing long sleeves and trousers and using insect repellent if you plan on hiking in wooded areas.

Getting to Woolacombe: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Woolacombe

The closest airports to Woolacombe are Bristol Airport (74 miles) and Exeter Airport (56 miles).

Bus Stations Near Woolacombe

National Express operates a regular coach service to Barnstaple, which is located 7 miles from Woolacombe. From here, you can take a local bus or taxi to Woolacombe.

Other Options

If you’re traveling from within the UK, driving is also an option. Woolacombe is located just off the A361, which connects to the M5 motorway.

How to Get Around in Woolacombe

The best way to get around Woolacombe is on foot or by bike. The town is small and compact, with most attractions located within walking distance of each other.

Where to Go Next from Woolacombe: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Ilfracombe - a picturesque coastal town located just a few miles from Woolacombe.
  • Lynton and Lynmouth - two charming towns located in the heart of Exmoor National Park.
  • Dartmoor National Park - another designated area of outstanding natural beauty located just a few hours’ drive from Woolacombe.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking to catch some waves, explore the natural beauty of Devon, or simply relax on the beach, Woolacombe has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and discover all that this charming coastal town has to offer.

A view of Woolacombe, taken from Mill Rock (half way along) Woolacombe Beach A view of Woolacombe, taken from Mill Rock (half way along) Woolacombe Beach