Cottages to rent for self-catering breaks in Ilfracombe, Devon, England

Stunning coastal scenery, magnificient Victorian architecture, independent high street retailers, top class restaurants and galleries can all be found in Ilfracombe, North Devon.  Climb to the coastal path and wander along the top of the cliffs taking in the breathtaking scenery of waves crashing on the rocks at high tide.  Magnificient views over the town and across The Channel to the Welsh coast.

The infamous and award winning Tunnels Beaches offers the chance to see the tunnel hand dug by Welsh miners to get to the shore and which provided the Victorian Ladies and Gents individual beaches to swim from.  Visit Ilfracombe in June for a week of Victorian fun.  During Victorian week you may well bump into 'Her Majesty', or the local bobby on his pennyfarthing, or The Magistrate!  The Ilfracombe Victorian Society welcomes all to join them for Afternoon Tea on the lawn of the Vicarage or a picnic around the bandstand.

 Take a walk along the High Street to Walker's Chocolate Emporium.  Enjoy everything chocolate and then a wander through their museum.

The Landmark Theatre has varied and regular performances throughout the year.  Workshops are often held throughout the year.

 The Museum is a rich source of information and well worth a visit.  There is a model of the Glass Palace that was built by the Victorians on the sea front.  Sadly this has now gone, but there is plenty more to see and do along the promenade.

Ilfracombe has more than its fair share of excellent eating houses for all pockets.  Damien Hirst opened No 11 The Quay three years ago.  For Fine Dining The Elmfield Hotel can't be beaten.  Bistros, Tapas Bars to Award Wining Fish and Chips shops, we have it all.

St Nicholas Chapel stands high and proud and was built in the 14th century.  Today it has been restored and is maintained by The Rotary Club, it's worth the climb to visit it and enjoy the view over the harbour.

With Exmoor on our doorstep and the sea lapping at our feet, Ilfracombe is a good place to visit and stay.  It is also a good base to visit the several theme parks, the Wolfman at Exmoor Zoo, beautiful open gardens, and a huge range of National Trust properties.

 Take a day trip to Lundy Island by boat to see the seals, deer and the Lundy ponies or take a coach ride to Exmoor and then a catamaran back to the harbour.  You might even get the odd dolphin alongside.

 Have a day trip out to beautiful Clovelly with its 16th century cottages, cobble streets steeped in history.  Or if you want to go a bit further why not visit The Eden Project.  Both places are within comfortable driving distance for days out.  But, if all you want to do is relax, walk, eat good food and enjoy the scenery there's no need to leave ilfracombe!

See you here then?