Situated along the North Devon coast, the seaside village of Woolacombe is sat at the mouth of a valley and set against the backdrop of rugged, low-lying cliffs, characteristic of the area. Nestled between the fine beaches and popular resorts of Braunton and Ilfracombe, in what is also a designated ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’, these low-lying cliffs house rare maritime heathland and a large expanse of sand dunes which are located behind the beach.

Now looked after by the National Trust, this area of protected coastline is also home to various rare breed birds and a great spot from which to enjoy the wildlife local to this particular part of Devon.

A beautiful stretch of golden sandy beach that has won numerous awards, Woolacombe is the perfect location for a family break, offering a safe and enjoyable environment for all. The ultimate ‘bucket and spade’ beach, it measures at over three miles in length and is surrounded by the most beautiful landscape, including two dramatic headlands, Baggy and Morte Point.

The area is popular with surfers, who appreciate the beach is less commercial than others along the coastline and in recent years there has been a resurgence of longboarders, thanks to The Longboarders Surf Club which was set up in 1999. Aside from surfing a great many activities can also be enjoyed; windsurfing and kite surfing are two such activities and for those who want to keep their feet firmly on land, there are some incredible golf clubs located within easy reach.

Keen walkers can explore the South West Coast Path which features some of the most awe-inspiring views in the South West. Two well-trodden routes are the Woolacombe to Baggy Point and the Woolacombe to Morte Point walks; the latter of which offers a pay-off of panoramic views across land and sea and the chance to capture a glimpse of birds of prey swooping overhead and grazing wild Exmoor ponies.

Woolacombe town centre is a lively place and offers a warm welcome to its visitors; with a wide range of places to stay including holiday parks, hotels and B&B’s, there’s plenty of choice and for dining, choose between characterful inn’s, traditional fish and chip shops and a good selection of restaurants.