Family Holidays in Ilfracombe family holiday guide
THE BEST FAMILY HOLIDAYS IN ILFRACOMBE
To view a fantastic variety of family holidays currently available in Ilfracombe please scroll down.
WHY HOLIDAY IN ILFRACOMBE?
From its part sand, part shingle beaches to its stunning Victorian architecture, Ilfracombe checks all the boxes for a family holiday by the seaside full of excitement and entertainment. Situated on the North Devon Coast, Ilfracombe’s harbour port has functioned since at the least the 12th century and its fascinating museums, rock pools and lighthouse are a must see!
Here are the top 10 things we love about family holidays in Ilfracombe:
- With a multitude of entertainment and activities to do within Ilfracombe, there is no need to travel outside of it to find entertainment.
- However, if you do find yourself exploring the rest of North Devon, Ilfracombe is very well connected via buses.
- Ilfracombe stands within the North Devon Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This means spectacular sights to see absolutely free and dogs are always welcome!
- Swim in the rock pools one day, visit a haunted house or the aquarium the next! There is such a variety of activities to do in Ilfracombe which means endless fun for both children and adults alike.
- Chains don’t dominate the high street. What is wonderful about the high street is that it boasts mainly independent and family run businesses offering unique food, souvenirs and more; generally, at a lower price than the chains.
- You will always eat fresh. Now is your chance to head down to Ilfracombe’s quayside and grab some delicious seafood which has been caught the same day.
- The Landmark Theatre has a year-round programme of events suitable for all ages.
- You can enjoy a real taste for maritime history within the museums and lifeboat station.
- Try something new! Hele Bay is known for its kayaking and canoeing.
- Home to Damien Hirst’s statue of Verity – an allegory of justice and truth.
ILFRACOMBE OVERVIEW:
Ilfracombe’s sandy beaches are surrounded by cliffs and Victorian architecture including a Grade 1 listed building and is the perfect destination for splashing about under the sun and enjoying fascinating history taught in a compelling yet interactive way. Ilfracombe is also an area of the North Devon Voluntary Marine Conservation due to its rare and diverse species and boasts activities perfect for families whatever the weather.
THINGS TO DO ON A FAMILY HOLIDAY IN ILFRACOMBE:
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- Grab your swimsuit and head down to the Tunnels Beaches. Holder of the Blue Flag Seaside Award, these hand-carved tunnels provides a unique beach experience that began in 1823.
- Visit Ilfracombe Museum which opens its doors in 1932. Children under 16 go free within this fascinating museum boasting exhibitions of Victorian life such as costumes and accessories, Victorian printing press, and a Victorian kitchen and laundry room. Step back in time with the Maritime Room and Ilfracombe Gallery.
- Explore the great underworld at Ilfracombe’s Aquarium. This award-winning aquarium is located near the Old Lifeboat House alongside the historic harbour.
- Discover Hele Cornmill. This remarkable 16th century Grade 2 listed water mill fell derelict in the 1970s and was renovated into a flour mill. The flour produced provides for the award-winning tea room adjacent to the mill.
- Walk around a haunted house! Chambercombe Manor is an exciting history lesson and has been known for its unexplained paranormal experiences.
- Any sweet tooth in your family? Check out the Chocolate Emporium where admission to the museum is free.
- Wonder at St Nicolas Chapel and Lighthouse. It is still a working lighthouse and admission is free.
- Admire Damien Hirst’s Verity Statue. Hirst’s famous bronze and stainless steel statue of 20.25 metres height looks out over the Bristol Channel and is a must see for any budding art and statue lovers!
- Climb up Capstone Hill. The view from here is incredible as on a clear day you can see Lundy Island and the coast of South Wales.
- Shop along the vibrant high street. With the expansion of the railways in the 1870s, Ilfracombe became a continuing developing holiday resort with vibrant shops. Along the high street, you will mainly notice independent retailers and family-run businesses alongside a plethora of pubs and restaurants.
- Further afield. There are many destinations to visit, ranging from towns such as Barnstaple to tourist attractions such as:
- Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park. Discover beautiful wildlife and spot the T-rex!
- Watermouth Family Theme Park & Castle. Check out the stunning Grade II* Listed Building and Gnomeland!
- Lundy Island. This 3 mile island boasts extraordinary wildlife and peaceful scenery.