Magnolia View Activities

Plan your stay

With Exmoor National Park and the North Devon coast less than a 30 minute drive from Magnolia View Cottage there are a wealth of activities to experience from water based sports such as surfing and kayaking to countryside walks and fishing. To help you discover more about what is on offer in North Devon please see a selection of local activities below. We also provide a guide book with a fuller list of local recommendations.

‍

Beaches

North Devon’s beaches are some of the most beautiful and varied in the UK, offering dramatic scenery, wide sandy shores, and excellent conditions for outdoor activities. Stretching along the Atlantic coast, the area is known for its rugged cliffs, rolling dunes, and clear coastal air. Popular beaches such as Woolacombe, Croyde, and Saunton Sands are famous for their long expanses of golden sand and reliable surf, attracting surfers, families, and walkers alike. Many beaches are backed by sand dunes or grassy headlands, creating stunning views and peaceful spots to relax. Rock pools, coastal paths, and wildlife-rich areas make North Devon ideal for exploring nature, while traditional seaside villages add charm and character to the coastline. Instow is a lovely child and dog friendly beach, with the option of taking a short ferry (5-10mins) to Appledore fishing village for fish and chips, a cream tea or drinks on the quay. Enjoying a bracing walk, a day of surfing, or simply watching the sunset over the sea, North Devon’s beaches offer something for everyone in every season.

Surfing

This fun and very popular sport can be enjoyed at many of the major beaches along the North Devon coast including Woolacombe, Croyde, Saunton Sands and Westward Ho! These excellent beaches are patrolled by lifeguards and lessons are offered for all abilities. For more experienced surfers there are smaller coves that offer more extreme conditions for surfing.

Other water sports can also be enjoy around the North Devon coastline, such as kayaking at Combe Martin, stand up paddle boarding at Croyde and jet skiing at Watermouth Cove. Coasteering is another sport that is becoming more popular in the area and experienced guides are available.

Walking

As well as having a number of local walks direct from the cottage, there are many others that will keep walkers happy for several days. For coastal walks the South West Coast Path provides an excellent way to see the dramatic North Devon coastline, climb some of the highest cliffs in England as you walk the path around Combe Martin or discover the beautiful villages of Hartland and Clovelly. The views from the coast path are spectacular and it is a great way to see the local wildlife. A more accessible part of the coast path is the Tarka Trail, which begins in Braunton and travels through the nearby town of Barnstaple all the way to Torrington. This tarmac pathway on the old railway track is perfect for walkers, runners and cyclists and ideal for leisurely strolls or bike rides with the little ones - our favourite spots along the trail are Fremington Quay with its excellent cafe and Instow with its lovely beach, pubs and cafe.

The National Trust Arlington Court is nearby, with wonderful woodland walks, an excellent cafe, house and carriage museum and kids activities in school holidays.

Alternative walks can be found on Exmoor, which has a wonderful diverse landscape made up of heather clad moors, open fields and ancient woods. The National Park, which covers hundreds of acres is spread across both Devon and Somerset and is a great place to enjoy a walk, especially when combined with a spot of wild swimming at Landacre Bridge or a traditional cream tea at one of the wonderful cosy tea rooms that are dotted around the National Park. A favourite walk for many visitors is the one from Watersmeet to Lynmouth, which is where Exmoor meets the sea. Valley of the Rocks at Lynton has breathtaking walks and a great cafe.

Cycling

Like walkers, cyclists love North Devon thanks to its many miles of roads, some of which are part of National Cycle routes. Some of the most challenging routes are those across Exmoor and around Croyde.

For less experienced cyclists and families with young children the Tarka Trail provides an excellent way to get out on your bike. This mainly level tarmac pathway runs from Braunton to Torrington and is traffic free. The path, which follows the old railway line takes in some of North Devon’s beautiful scenery including the Taw Estuary. Bike hire can also be arranged at a number of spots along the Tarka Trail including Barnstaple and Fremington.

‍

golf

North Devon offers outstanding golf along a dramatic coastline. Portmore Golf Park is ideal for relaxed play, practice, and families, with scenic views and approachable facilities. Ilfracombe Golf Club is a traditional parkland course, challenging yet welcoming, set among rolling hills near the coast. Saunton Sands is a links golf course, featuring two championship courses with sweeping dunes, fast fairways, and breathtaking Atlantic views.

Horse Riding

There are many ways to experience North Devon but perhaps one of the most memorable is on horseback. There are several stable yards around the local area that offer rides of varying length to suit all ages and abilities, these can include treks along countryside bridleways or rides across Exmoor. More experienced riders can also enjoy beach rides, with stable yards near Woolacombe and Croyde offering this one in a lifetime experience.

Bird watching

With its miles of stunning coastline and beautiful countryside it is no wonder that North Devon is a great place to enjoy a spot of bird watching. One of the best places to see the local birds that nest in the area is on the island of Lundy, which lies just off the North Devon coast in the Bristol Channel. This small island has hardly changed over the years and is only home to a few houses and a pub. Lundy has many different birds living on the island but it is the puffins that really make this place so special. To access Lundy you need to hop on board the MS Oldenburg that sets sail from Bideford or Ilfracombe, or alternatively via helicopter at some times of year.

Fishing

The relaxing pastime of fishing can be enjoyed in many spots in North Devon and across Exmoor. The nearest farms are Bulldog Farm, Blakewell Fisheries and Britton Water Fly Fishing. River and harbour fishing, as well as boat charters are also available.

‍