2026 Bideford Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in February)

#falladventures Discover Bideford's maritime soul on the historic quay—stroll pastel houses, browse Pannier Market's crafts and produce. Dive into North Devon Maritime Museum's shipwreck tales. Families flock to The Big Sheep for rides, animals, and splash zones. Cycle or hike the Tarka Trail's riverside paths, spotting otters and kingfishers. Unwind in Victoria Park's gardens, play area, and skatepark. Explore Tapeley Park's exotic walled gardens and peacocks. Nearby: Westward Ho!'s Blue Flag beach for surfing; Instow's dunes; ferry to Lundy Island's puffins and seals. Hike South West Coast Path's cliffs. Clovelly's cobbled charm awaits. Savor pasties, cider—timeless Devon delight!

#falladventures Autumn transforms Bideford into a serene North Devon gem, blending golden foliage, crisp air, and fewer crowds for an intimate escape. Stroll the picturesque quay, where the River Torridge reflects fiery maples and oaks—perfect for photographers and romantics. Victoria Park dazzles with vibrant colors, its historic trees (like the 1905 oak) and war memorial offering peaceful reflection amid rustling leaves. Hike the South West Coast Path or Torridge Tarka Trail, spotting seals and migratory birds along dramatic cliffs and unspoilt beaches like Instow or Westward Ho!. Mild 12-17°C days suit brisk walks, with wild orchards ripe for foraging apples. Families thrive at The Big Sheep theme park, enjoying indoor thrills rain or shine. Savor local harvests at fortnightly farmers' markets—pumpkin soups, Devon ciders—in cozy pubs. Cultural perks include Burton Art Gallery's autumn exhibits and English Touring Opera's November shows. Budget-friendly stays mean more for hearty pasties and cream teas. Escape the ordinary; Bideford's autumn whispers timeless charm.

Last autumn on arrival in Lundy my group and I were given a guided tour of the Southern end of Lundy Island. The church of St Helen’s has been a notable feature of the Lundy skyline since 1897, but the history of Christianity on the island dates back as early as the 6th century. Location It is situated in a prominent location on the island, offering exceptional views of the Bristol Channel. The church is considered a central part of island life, serving as a place for education, events, and worship. I thoroughly recommend a trip to Lundy. Great destination for those interested in maritime history, wildlife watching or a unique outdoor experience. For me I see it as a monastic and spiritual retreat. l hope to go back in the future #church #staycation #wildlife #spiritual retreat 🙏

Lundy Island can be reached by ferry from Ilfracombe or Bideford. A day trip allows you to explore the island for about three hours. Not long enough to walk the full circuit of the island. Rugged unspoilt beauty Lundy is a haven for wildlife and is rich in maritime history. There is accommodation on the island and or you can camp so may consider these options on my next visit. I managed to find time to grab a pint in the Marisco Tavern. An adventure on your doorstep 😄

## Escape to Lundy: Your Secret Island Adventure Awaits! **Forget the ordinary. Step into a wild, windswept paradise just off the North Devon coast!** Lundy Island isn't just a destination; it's an experience straight from a storybook. **Imagine this:** ☀️ **Cruising the Bristol Channel** aboard the iconic MS Oldenburg from Bideford, salt spray in your hair, anticipation building. 🦜 **Landing in a haven for wildlife:** Watch **puffins** bob on turquoise waves, spot seals basking on rugged rocks, and hear the cries of thousands of seabirds soaring over dramatic cliffs. 🚶♀️ **Wandering timeless trails:** Explore ancient granite quarries, mysterious shipwrecks, a historic lighthouse, and the charming village – all **car-free**, all captivating. 🌊 **Breathing pure Atlantic air:** Feel the stress melt away amidst heather-clad hills, hidden coves, and starry skies untouched by light pollution. 🍔 **Cosying up in the Marisco Tavern:** Refuel with hearty pub grub, local ales, and tales from fellow adventurers – the island's warm, beating heart. **Lundy is more than an island. It's a digital detox, a wildlife wonderland, and a step back in time. It’s North Devon’s ultimate hidden gem.** **Ready for your escape?** ⛴️ **Sail from Bideford on the Oldenburg!** Book your crossing to paradise now. --- **#lundyisland** **#northdevonshiddengem** **#wildlifewatching** **#puffinparadise** **#islandescape** **#carfreetravel** **#digitaldetox** **#devonadventures** **#offthebeatenpath** **#oldenburgvoyage** **#bidefordtolundy** **#ukhiddengems** **#explorebritain** **#slowtravel** **#coastalwalks** **#seabirdsanctuary**

It's simple poached egg crumpet with hollandaise sauce,but cooked specially by my husband on my day off. 😋