Campsites in Ilfracombe

Described as the ‘new St Ives,’ Ilfracombe sits proudly on the North Devon coastline overlooking the Bristol Channel. While camping in Ilfracombe, take a moment to breathe in the fresh air, stroll through the seaside town, and, most importantly, relax on its golden sandy beaches and watch life pass by. Here are some incredible things to do in Ilfracombe on your camping trip.

1. Visit Tunnels Beaches

Although Ilfracombe has plenty of breathtaking beaches, one that captures everyone's attention is Tunnels Beaches. These tunnels, hand-carved in the 1820s, lead to beautiful, sheltered beaches. To enter, you’ll have to pay a small fee, but it’ll be worth it.

Tunnels Beaches are popular for their beauty and safety—they are also one of the best spots for rockpooling in the UK. So, why not enjoy the sunshine and bathe on the beach, walk through the tunnels and learn about its unique history, take in the spectacular views ahead, or enjoy wild swimming and rockpooling in the tidal pools?

2. Explore the Ilfracombe Aquarium

For a fin-tastic adventure in the seaside town, visit the Ilfracombe Aquarium. This aquarium is bursting with fun exhibits for all the family. You can see local sea creatures as well as majestic international marine life. There are also plenty of fun quizzes and games, a pier cafe with stunning views, and a funky gift shop where you can purchase a treat for yourself or loved ones.

3. Discover Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park

Sat between our Lynton Club Site and Ilfracombe is Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park. This family-run wildlife park has 28 acres of spectacular gardens to explore. You can meet a range of animals, including penguins, alpacas, leopards and wolves. There are also fun experiences to book, such as a meet and greet with Morgan (the sea lion), a swimming experience with Morgan and the opportunity to be a carnivore keeper for a morning.

You can either pack your own lunch and enjoy it at one of the picnic points or treat yourself to some tasty food at the kiosks and restaurants scattered around the park. Before leaving, remember to check out the gift shop and buy something that reminds you of your favourite animal.

4. Marvel at Damien Hirst's Verity

Proudly guarding Ilfracombe Pier, Verity, created by Damien Hirst, is a sixty-five-foot bronze and steel sculpture that looks out over the Bristol Channel. It’s the talking point of the town, and it has been lent to Ilfracombe for over 20 years.

5. Wander through Ilfracombe Harbour

Ilfracombe Harbour is the largest harbour on the North Devon coast and has been around for centuries. You can take a stroll down the harbour and quay, passing plenty of shops, restaurants, pubs, and the famous Verity. In the summer, the harbour lights up and becomes an active place for many events.

6. See what’s on at The Landmark Theatre

This spectacular space, both inside and out, is home to countless shows and productions. Whether you’re visiting with your family or looking for a great date night spot, The Landmark Theatre hosts plenty of masterpieces ready for you to see. Check out what’s on during your camping trip to Ilfracombe and book your favourite shows in advance.

7. Explore the Ilfracombe Museum

Learn something new at the Ilfracombe Museum. From exhibits on maritime history to seeing collections of fossils, butterflies and insects, the Ilfracombe Museum has something for everyone. If you’re intrigued by the history of the city itself, you can also visit the Ilfracombe Gallery and the Ilfracombe Faces of War exhibit. Here, you’ll find artefacts and stories from Ilfracombe’s early history, the Civil War, the high street shops, wartime in Ilfracombe and discover how Ilfracombe’s women repelled French invaders in 1797 with their red petticoats.

More holiday inspiration