Activities
On the water
Surfing is a must in these parts, if you've never had a chance to give it a go sign up with a surf school for a lesson. There are an abundance of Surf schools in the area, we like the Big Blue Surf School. Based in Bude, the school is run by Jon Price one of the UK's most experienced coaches and even trains the British surf team, so you know you'll be in good hands. Big Blue offer group lessons, private coaching sessions as well board and wetsuit hire. To book a lesson give them a call on 01288331764 or pop into the Fat Face store situated on the main High Street in Bude (this is also the meeting point).
Outdoor + Active are based just outside of Bude, Tamar Lakes is made up of an upper and lower lake and nature reserve. The centre offers a whole range of waterdsports activities including Kayaking, Windsurfing as well as boating. You can hire the kit or arrange to have a lesson, from 2 hour tasters to full multi-activity days. If you have your own dinghy or kayak you can also use the lake for a small launch fee. If you don't fancy getting on the water you can always enjoy a walk or cycle around the lakes or go fishing.
Address: Near Bude, Cornwall, EX23 9SB
Opening hours: From April - September (for full program however some activities are available outside of these dates).
The Hartland Peninsula is known for it's crystal waters and perfect diving and snorkeling conditions. Many diving clubs from around the country visit the peninsula and Lundy Island which is Britains only Marine Nature Reserve. You'll find lobsters, rare corals, wrecks and even grey seals.
Sea Fishing
The Cheeky Monkey fishing company offer sea fishing trips from the historic town of Appledore, to a few miles up the North Devon coast. These trips are bookable through the Sea Crest in Appledore our by calling 01237 476191. Alternatively Fly Fishing is also available from Clovelly. Great for catching bass, Fisherman Sam Rush will take you out to all the best spots around Clovelly, give him a call on 01237 431956 to arrange a trip.
The best place to experience the dramatic North Devon and Cornwall coastline is from the sea itself. Take a guided tour along the rugged coastline in a sea kayak with shoreline activities who offer half day introductory course to full day guided tours. Launching from Bude the can cover both the north Cornwall and Devon coast including Hartland Quay.
On land
Short walks to hill climbs
There are plenty of places to walk in and around Hartland one of our favourite's is the coastal path that runs through The National Trust's East Titchberry farm and loops round in a figure of 8 over to Exmansworthy. Visit the Southwest Coast Path website which features all the coastal walks along the North Devon cliffs, there is a fantastic 10 miler that runs from Hartland quay to Clovelly. The Tarka Trail runs from Bideford up the coast to Barnstaple, there are plenty of walks and cycleways around this area all following the disused south west rail way line, there's some beautiful views along the way, definately a must-do.
Rock Climbing
The coastline offers plenty of challenging climbs for competent climbers but if you fancy giving it a try you can visit the Ultimate Adventure Centre at Abbotsham, Bideford. Offering climbing, coasteering and new for 2011...Ultimate Wipeout!
Shoreline Outdoor Pursuits also offer a variety of course from absolute beginners to progressive guiding course on the cliffs near Bude at Wreckers Slab, Baggy Point and Sheeps Tor.
Cycling
Cycling in North Devon is not for the faint hearted, everytime you over a come a hill there's another one on the horizon. If you're up to it though it is a great way to get about. The National Cycle route No. 3 which connects Bristol with Lands End runs through part of the Tarka trail at Barnstaple through to Bude, for more information please visit the sustrans website.
A few places to visit for those rainy days
Just a mile from Loveland, lies Hartland Abbey, a 12th century house nestled in the valley between the point and Hartland Quay. The house and beautiful gardens are open to the public on selected days, it's a family home, lived in by the Stucley family and in the peak summer months is open sunday through to thursday from 11:30am -5pm (house 2pm-5pm). The Abbey is most well known as the set of Andrew Davis' adaptation of Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility which was aired on the BBC in 2007.
Forge Brewery
Based in Hartland just off Fore Street towards Bude, the Forge Brewery serves the local pubs and restaurants with 9 different ales. This micro-brewery is set in beautiful surroundings and is a family-run business, arrange a visit to learn about the brewing process and try out the award winning ales on offer. To find out more visit .
Address: Ford Hill Forge, Hartland, EX39 6EE
Hartland Quay Museum
The museum at Hartland Quay is great for brushing up on your local history knowledge, offering a detailed insight into the coastal history of the area as well as a collection of photographs, documents and artefacts regarding the shipwrecks that have taken place along the treacherous North Devon coastline. The views from the Quay are breathtaking so be sure to stay for a pint at the Quay hotel and take it all in.
Address: Hartland Quay, EX39 6DU
H.A.M.
Hartland Artists and Makers is a collective group of creatives based in the village of Hartland. Each with their own studio but all within close proximity of each other you can studio hop and experience each artist's individual style and craft.
The Milky Way Adventure Park offers loads for kids whether the suns shining or it's wet out. Featuring Devon's tallest rollercoaster and indoor play area, there's also Archery, Golf and Laser Target Shooting as well as daily Bird of Prey shows. The park is situated just 6 miles North of Loveland along the A39.
Address:Clovelly, Bideford, EX39 5RY
Opening hours:1st April - 30th October (10:30am - 6pm) 1st November - 31st March (weekends and school holidays only)
Another great attraction no matter what the weather - from high ropes and mountain boarding to lamb feeding, sheep shearing and the daily big sheep show. For the adults there's an on site brewery where you can sample the local ale and even take a keg home with you.
Address: Abbotsham, Bideford, EX39 5AP
Opening hours:1st April - 30th October (10am - 6pm) 1st November - 31st March (weekends only)
A must see!
Clovelly
The cobbled, traffic-free, high street of this world famous fishing village in North Devon, built into a cleft in a 400' high cliff, tumbles its way down past whitewashed cottages festooned with flowers to the tiny, ancient working port. It is also famous for its donkeys, which traditionally carry goods up the hill; sledges bring things down. There are links with Charles Kingsley, Turner, Dickens and the Spanish Armada. What everyone remarks upon is the maritime atmosphere, stunning views and the peaceful tranquillity of the village, so visitors often decide on the spot to stay a night or two. The New Inn Hotel in the heart of this historic village and the Red Lion Hotel at its foot, beside the sea, offer charming en suite accommodation and excellent bar and restaurant food.