8 must-do activities in North Devon
Are you looking for activities In North Devon?
Let me know show you my top Top 8 things to do in North Devon for this summer!
But before I do that, let me explain how I got here…
Back in April 2019, I moved my life from the south-west of London to the south-west of England to start up my food van, Biffen’s Kitchen.
I’ve been based in the lovely village of Croyde for a little while now, and although the locals would still call me a grockle (Devon slang for tourist) I thought it was time to share some of my favourite things to do on the North Devon coast.
Kayak to ‘Little Thailand’
Credit: The family freestylers
Comparing a little cove in North Devon to Thailand may seem like a steep statement, but the beauty of Broadsands is on a level with the tropics.
To access this surreal beach, you can either take on the 220 cliff steps or hire a kayak from Surfside Kayak Hire in Combe Martin and take a scenic paddle around the coastline.
To witness a magical sunset go kayaking in the evening between May and August.
If you’re lucky, you might also spot the famous finned local, Dave, the dolphin.
Surf some of the UK’s best beaches
Credit – @brucemc82
Surfing played a massive part in my decision to start my business in Croyde; it tends to be what I’m doing when I’m not in the kitchen.
North Devon has a great range of beaches whether you’re an experienced surfer or keen to try it out for the first time.
Croyde is best at low tide and offers a faster wave than other beaches around. The a-frame barrels, strong rip currents and rocks make it better suited to more advanced surfers. However, if like me you are looking to improve your surfing from intermediate to advanced, get in touch with Surfing Croyde Bay. Their surf development program is a great way to get the advice to take you to the next level.
Beginners are better off at Saunton just around the corner; also a famous backdrop to films like Dunkirk and Robbie Williams’ Angels music video. Saunton’s calmer wave conditions are best for learning, and with a three-mile stretch of shoreline, there’s a lot more space to practice. Surf Saunton offer fantastic lessons for families, large groups and private parties.
Surf Saunton
Nearby Woolacombe and Putsborough are also good choices for surfers of all abilities. The car park isn’t cheap, so make sure you spend the day there and enjoy sheltered surf, long beach walks and tasty treats at the local cafe.
Fall asleep to the sound of the waves
Ocean Pitch Camping & Biffen’s Kitchen
Imagine waking up just moments from the beach and opening your tent to an epic sea view.
Heaven right? Book yourself a hard standing pitch or camping pitch at Ocean Pitch campsite in Croyde between April and September to experience coastal living at its best.
There’s hot showers, clean toilets, free WiFi and I’ll be there to serve up your morning caffeine fix and a tasty evening meal.
Currently topping TripAdvisor, Ocean Pitch has featured in some little-known publications such as The Telegraph, The Times and Vogue.
It’s super popular so make sure you book in advance!
Now try the best surf-inspired street food around!
Could this be your favourite activity in North Devon?
Avoid getting hangry and stop by my food van in Croyde to try some of my surf-inspired street food.
You’ll find Biffen’s Kitchen just two minutes off Croyde beach at Ocean Pitch during the summer season from April to September.
I’m open for breakfast and dinner, serving up a variety of cuisines from Morrocan to Jamaican, and I always offer meat and vegan options.
Biffen’s Kitchen – snack shack
I source my ingredients locally where I can and make everything on-site!
Keep an eye on my Instagram for menu updates and plenty of food inspiration with recipes.
The street food scene is really taking off around these parts, so here are some others for you to try:
- For a taste of Sri Lanka stop by my neighbours Hippy Happy Hoppers
- Catch Seadogs next event for some quality seafood
- Taste stir-fried ice cream in boozy flavours at Good Times Roll
- Grab a Pizza on the Pebbles down at Westward Ho!
- Gobblebox, don’t be fooled by its size or the simplicity of the place – these guys really know what they’re doing with food!
Do you think I have missed a tasty street food pop up? Leave a comment below.
Discover the ultimate view of the coast from the Valley of Rocks
Valley of the rocks
Arguably the most scenic spot on Exmoor, the Valley of Rocks is a dramatic spot not to be missed.
Formed during the last Ice Age, it’s an unreal place to go climbing, hang out with some wild goats and chill out on the hidden Wringcliff Bay.
From here it’s an easy walk down to the historic village of Lynmouth where you can take a ride on the steepest water-powered railway in the world.
Eat a decent roast dinner
Roast dinner at the Kings Arms
This is England, so when it starts to rain it’s best to find shelter in a proper British pub.
For an all-round excellent roast head to The Rock Inn in Georgeham, or if you need a hearty portion, I’d suggest venturing down the road to The Thatch in Croyde.
If you want to escape the crowds and get off the beaten track The Pyne Arms in Exmoor is the answer, it’s the cosiest pub to hideaway in after a countryside walk.
For a classic, no fuss no frills serving of pub grub check out The Chichester Arms in Bishops Tawton but if you’d rather picture-perfect presentation pop by Pig on the Hill in Abbotsham.
Your challenge is to try them all!
Take on the South West Coast Path
Baggy Point Sunset
See the best of the coastline by taking a walk on the incredible South West Coast Path.
Wrapping around Somerset, Devon, Cornwall and Dorset for 630 miles, this well-worn route has some must-see gems on the North Devon stretch:
- Baggy Point is a spectacular headland that divides the sandy beaches of Putsborough and Croyde. Take in views of Lundy Island, go shell hunting at Fisherman’s Steps, and see the remains of a whale that washed up over 100 years ago.
- Take a stroll across Abbotsham Cliffs and down to Greencliff where you’ll find a pretty waterfall, a quirky beach shack made out of driftwood and other washed-up items, and the chance to watch skilled surfers take on some challenging waves.
- Remote and rugged, Hartland is an incredible place if you fancy saying bye to 4G and going completely off-grid. Journey along the clifftop, past old smuggler spots and dramatic drops to the beautiful Speke’s Mill Mouth Waterfall.
- Stand on the tiny bridge that joins Devon and Cornwall at Welcombe Mouth. This secluded beach is a fantastic place to wild camp or just rock up and watch a sunset.
These are free things to do in north devon, let’s just hope the weather in on your side.
Go coasteering
Credit: coastlinesports
This has to be one of my favourite activities in North Devon!
What could be more fun than climbing up rocks, jumping off into the water and floating into sea caves?
Get yourselves booked in on one of the amazing tours that Coastline Sports of Surfing Croyde Bay offer and reach otherwise inaccessible parts of the coastline.
Even if you aren’t confident in the sea or haven’t tried coasteering before, going with one of these great companies will ensure you have everything you need to enjoy the adrenaline rush and have an awesome time.
These are just a few things to do in North Devon if you’ve got your own secret spots please share them in the comments.
Come down to Biffen’s Kitchen for more recommendations and some Surf-Inspired Street Food, you can find out what’s on the menu by checking out my Instagram.
Putsborough Beach
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Discover the taste of Croyde this summer with my Surf-Inspired Street Food. From my Moroccan infusion to Japanese katsu nights, you cannot visit North Devon without popping in for a bite to eat and experience the Croyde Sea view.
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