Holiday homes & rentals in Woolacombe

Wedged on the coast of North Devon, Woolacombe is a pretty seaside resort that has drawn holidaymakers since ages. The fishing hamlet transformed into a fashionable getaway for Europeans without compromising on its inherent warmth and hospitality. Families in particular love the safe beaches that allows children to fly kites and frolic in the soft sands. Book a Woolacombe holiday cottage and explore one of Britain's best-loved family resorts.

What to eat during your Woolacombe holiday

While in Woolacombe, 'breakfasting' is imperative. Locals take their breakfast time seriously and so should you at any of the sea-facing shacks. Enjoy your English breakfast of beans, bacon, eggs and coffee with soothing sea views to keep you company. Waffle lovers should definitely stop by Big Chief Waffles that is run by a local woman. The waffles are prepared right in front of you, and the toppings are plentiful. They serve ice cream too!

For a memorable dining experience, Bar Electric does the trick with its eclectic Asian menu for dinner. Woolacombe is home to numerous brasseries that serve traditional seafood using fresh and seasonal produce.

What weather to expect on your Woolacombe holiday

While summer is a great time to profit from the sunny, blue skies, winters in Woolacombe are a good time for surfing. Holiday accommodation prices are decidedly lower, parking space is plentiful and you are assured a peaceful holiday, far from the crowds of summer.

Sights and things to do in Woolacombe

The beach is indeed Woolacombe's claim to fame, so make the most of the white sand, underwater sealife and brilliant turquoise waters. Surfers are known to enjoy the swell at Woolacombe, while novices are advised to start at Bideford Bay coast. While seasoned surfers master the swells at Woolacombe, landlubbers can always trace the scenic coastal paths with a trusty camera. There are plenty of coffee shops along the way for a much-needed refuel. Keep your eyes peeled for Peregrine falcons, and gorse flowers used by locals to make gorse wine (it tastes just like coconuts).

Take a walk through the old town and indulge in classic fudge treats available in local shops. The town has a bohemian vibe with its interesting shops, cafes and tourism memorabilia. The 4.8km long beach is home to the International Sandcastle competition that draws visitors from across Britain. Imagine 10m x 10m sculptures creatively crafted from Devon's soft sand. Lifeguards are always close at hand surveying the waters, which is great news for families. A Woolacombe holiday cottage is a good idea when travelling with children.

Excursions around Woolacombe

Rent a car and head down to Woolacombe's upstart neighbour, Croyde. Alternatively, you can walk along the coast but make sure you're well-equipped with sun cream, sun glasses and plenty of water. Baggy Point and Morte point are good spots for porpoise, seal, dolphin and shark sightings. Plan a day trip to the National Trust Headlands, perfect for long countryside walks. Morte Poine is an exciting headland marked by its wild heather and gorgeous vistas. Drive down to the 30 km, narrow gauge of Lynton & Barnstaple Railway, which was opened in 1898 in Parracombe. Fancy riding a wild horse along the coast? Consider Woolacombe Riding Stables, which offers horses approved by the British Horse Society and Pony Club. All rides are escorted. For some more history, visit the Mortehoe Museum, a treasure trove of local shipwrecks.

Why not explore North Devon's stunning coastline with the Ilfracombe Sea Safari? Towering cliffs, dolphins, porpoises, marine and bird life, woody bays and photo opportunities await. Experience Exmoor coast, Combe Martin Bay, Heddons Mouth, Woody Bay, Baggy Point and Lundy islands, all quintessential to the Devon coastal experience. Bull Point meanwhile has its own morbid history of shipwrecks, where men shone lights to attract ships that would smash on the rocks. The ship's booty was then promptly looted. For more smuggling stories, visit Bennett’s Mouth and its shaded woodlands and toad spawns. End the day at your comfortable Woolacombe holiday letting and share all you have discovered with the family.

Woolacombe dates back to the Stone Age and has held on tightly to its savage charm in the face of rampant modernisation. Book your Woolacombe holiday cottage and experience all this and more for yourself.

Woolacombe's beaches and attractions

Woolacombe Beach

Woolacombe Beach has won numerous awards in the past years. It offers perfect surfing conditions, 5km of golden sands with dunes that protect from the wind, as well as steep cliffs.

Borough Farm

Wedged on North Devon’s Atlantic coast, Borough Farm hosts 600 sheep and 50 cattle. Farmer David Kennard entertains visitors with his sheepdog and falconry displays.

Bull Point Lighthouse

Illuminating the villages of Mortehoe, Woolacombe and Ilfracombe, Bull Point Lighthouse can be accessed from Woolacombe via a wheelchair-friendly path. The views over the ocean and countryside are magnificent.

Rockham Bay

You'll need to walk 2km from the parking lot, and descend 96 steps to access the dog-friendly Rockham Bay beach. Enjoy the rock pools and rock formations...but keep track of the incoming tide.

Grunta Beach

Located near Ilfracombe in Devon, the scenic Grunta Beach can be accessed via a slightly steep path from Morthoe village. Kayaking and body-boarding opportunities are popular here.

Frequently Asked Questions