The best farm stays near Ilfracombe

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This quaint harbour town on the North Devon coast is a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its dramatic coastline, remote surrounds, and excellent location within reach of some of the best surf in the UK and Exmoor National Park. Try surfing, get up close with England’s famous moorland ponies, or soak up the sights deep in the Devonshire countryside, with varied accommodation options suited to all manner of Hipcampers. From tent pitches beside beaches to luxury pods in national parks, here are our top picks for your Ilfracombe adventure.

You might be the type of camper who is happy to kick back on the campsite and make the most of campsite life while it lasts: soaking up the sun (fingers crossed), cooking on the campfire or barbecue, letting the kids run wild and enjoying the idyllic scenery of North Devon’s coast and countryside. But there’s also plenty of things to do in Ilfracombe and the surroundings during a holiday in the area. In the town of Ilfracombe itself you can watch the boats coming in and out of the harbour under the watchful eye of Verity, an enormous and controversial sculpture of a pregnant woman by Damian Hirst. Stay on dry land to explore harbour heritage on the Fish Trail, hop aboard a boat for a trip to see the wildlife at Lundy Island or find out about underwater life at the Ilfracombe Aquarium.

The Ilfracombe Museum reveals the history of the town and has an eclectic mix of curiosities from around the world too and no visit to Ilfracombe would be complete without visiting Tunnels Beaches and the Victorian tidal pool. For surfing, sandcastles and family swimming in shallow waters, head for Woolacombe Sands, Saunton Beach or Croyde—all under 10 miles away. Family-friendly attractions in the near area include Watermouth Castle, the Big Sheep Farm Park and Coombe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park.

95% (690) 812 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Ilfracombe

68 Degrees West

1. 68 Degrees West

99%
(99)
99km from Ilfracombe · 10 units · Motorhomes, Glamping
Pod glamping and family camping on the edge of the Brecon Beacons, with a handy location near Brecon town and sunrises you'll never forget.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
from 
£30
 / night
Sweet Hill Farm

2. Sweet Hill Farm

94%
(296)
139km from Ilfracombe · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Simple, almost-wild, seaside camping on the Isle of Portland
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Campsite 360°

3. Campsite 360°

100%
(6)
118km from Ilfracombe · 24 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Campsite 360° – Wild Freedom in the Black Mountains Tucked away in the untamed beauty of the Black Mountains, Campsite 360° is a true off-grid retreat for those seeking peace, space, and adventure. With panoramic views stretching to the horizon, this wild, solar-powered haven offers a rare escape from the noise and rush of modern life. Wake to the sound of birdsong, breathe crisp mountain air, and watch the sun spill across rolling hills and valleys. Whether you pitch a tent under a starlit sky, park up your campervan in a secluded spot, or simply spend your days exploring, Campsite 360° is all about reconnecting with nature – and yourself. Our land is more than a campsite – it’s a living landscape. You’ll find open meadows, sheltered hollows, and vantage points perfect for soaking up 360-degree views. There are no bright city lights here, just a canopy of stars at night and the distant silhouette of mountains by day. We welcome solo travellers, couples, families, and small groups looking for a space to gather, celebrate, or simply unwind. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, the surrounding Black Mountains offer endless opportunities for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. If relaxation is your goal, pull up a chair, light a campfire, and let the world drift away. Facilities & Features: Spacious, unmarked pitches for tents and campervans Off-grid, solar-powered amenities Fresh air and no traffic noise – just nature Fire pits available (wood supplied on request) Pet-friendly – dogs welcome on leads Stunning views in every direction Why Choose Campsite 360°? This is camping as it’s meant to be – simple, peaceful, and in harmony with the land. Our focus is on providing space and freedom, not crowded plots and strict schedules. You’re free to choose your spot, wander the land, and immerse yourself in the rhythms of the natural world. If you’re looking for an authentic wild camping experience with the convenience of a welcoming base, you’ve found it. Come with an open mind, leave with a full heart.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£20
 / night
Wolf Meadows Farm

4. Wolf Meadows Farm

100%
(1)
27km from Ilfracombe · 20 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Relaxed camping in a riverside meadow in north Devon
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£38
 / night
Coverack Camping & Glamping

5. Coverack Camping & Glamping

99%
(200)
147km from Ilfracombe · 162 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Traditional family camping near Coverack, with the promise of coast, countryside and Cornish ice cream
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£12
 / night
Glamping Pods Wales

6. Glamping Pods Wales

100%
(29)
86km from Ilfracombe · 2 units · Glamping
Cosy modern glamping pods with private hot tubs, located in the Brecon Beacons National Park
Showers
Hot Tub
Wifi
from 
£150
 / night
Penylan Cider Farm

7. Penylan Cider Farm

96%
(24)
119km from Ilfracombe · 3 units · Motorhomes, Glamping
Pitches and tiny home glamping on a cider farm in Herefordshire
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£20
 / night
Pwllyn Farm Camping

8. Pwllyn Farm Camping

100%
(219)
91km from Ilfracombe · 19 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A wild-feeling, adult-only campsite in the Brecon Beacons National Park, with impressive views of Pen y Fan
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£13
 / night
Little Eden Riverside Campsite

9. Little Eden Riverside Campsite

98%
(60)
87km from Ilfracombe · 27 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A very warm welcome to our guests at Little Eden, a restful and relaxing, riverside campsite for tents and campervans with grass pitches. We’re in a great spot if you love fishing, kayaking, gorge walking, cycling, seasides, fossil hunting, wild swimming, fell running, bird watching, archaeology or even Viking history! We are 9 miles from the mystical Glastonbury Abbey and Tor and directly on a Sustrans 33 cycle path route. The River Brue runs alongside the campsite with damsel flies fluttering by and kingfishers darting back and forth. We are on the Somerset levels so the sunsets are amazing as well as night time stargazing. We have a private, wooden jetty where you can launch your own paddle board. It’s a perfect get away for campers and nature lovers. Bring your own raised BBQs and logs or buy firewood on site. A family run campsite around 30 miles south of Bristol on the banks of the River Brue, it has a relaxed vibe and we try to keep things simple and straight forward. It’s ideal for doing some day trips nearby, then lighting the BBQ and playing Frisbee (games box you are most welcome to use). Shower and toilet, drinking water, washing-up sink in garden kitchenette. Our big sister site is just 4 miles away, and the café bar at 'Wall Eden Farm' serves fantastic coffee, cake, and family-made Somerset cider. If looking for classic countryside pub meal The Duck at Burtle and The Bird at Westhay are local favourites, be sure to book! Burnham on Sea close by has great fish and chips, a sandy beach, a pier and promenade if you like salty fingers and sandy toes. *DIRECTIONS* Little Eden Adventures is on Goole Maps Postcode takes you within 200 meters of campsite, look for white house with flagpole on stone bridge over river. What3words master.musical.titles. Our grandmother and her 5 sisters grew up milking cattle on the land. It’s steeped in history and archaeology. Bring your fishing rod as there are bream and roach in the River Brue. The site is a dream for cyclists. Electric vehicle charging at Wall Eden Farm with a Farmshop stocked with essential supplies, Moonshine and sweet treats. Sorry no pets as livestock in neighbouring fields. Big Adventures and Little Moments Warmest Wishes, Team Little Eden
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£15
 / night
Digeddi Wildlife Camping

10. Digeddi Wildlife Camping

97%
(129)
117km from Ilfracombe · 14 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Riverside camping and glamping with canoes for hire
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£15
 / night
Berry's Ground Lane Campsite

11. Berry's Ground Lane Campsite

100%
(18)
16km from Ilfracombe · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Lovely wild camping pitches on the North Devon coastline. You will be one of a maximum of 6 pitches in a large field on the beautiful North Devon coast with incredible sea views. We can provide a firepit to borrow and you can purchase logs onsite so you can stargaze and chatter around the fire - back to nature! We are based just outside the pretty hamlet of Martinhoe in North Devon, a stone's throw from the SW Coast Path. There is a historic Roman Beacon closeby and plenty of wildlife around, we'd be surprised if you didn't see deer in the neighbouring fields! There is a compost loo and a water point, but no electricity / wifi - delightfully off-grid. Situated on an organic working farm this is the perfect place to escape!
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£24
 / night
Pentwyn Dingle and Lodge Field Camp

12. Pentwyn Dingle and Lodge Field Camp

97%
(55)
114km from Ilfracombe · 30 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Almost wild camping with good views, near the River Wye and Brecon Beacons
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£10
 / night
Wookey Farm

13. Wookey Farm

98%
(181)
99km from Ilfracombe · 45 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Eco-friendly, campfire-friendly, family-friendly camping on the farm – plus Somerset's famous Wookey Hole caves on the doorstep
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£16
 / night
Secret Spot Camping Saunton

14. Secret Spot Camping Saunton

99%
(140)
10km from Ilfracombe · 12 units · Tents
Finding this exclusive Devon spot is like making it on to the best VIP guest list in town
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£20
 / night
The Enchanted Wilderness

15. The Enchanted Wilderness

93%
(43)
79km from Ilfracombe · 6 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Simple riverside camping pitches in the Tamar Valley on the edge of Dartmoor
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£28
 / night
Frome Meadow Campsite

16. Frome Meadow Campsite

93%
(167)
140km from Ilfracombe · 114 units · Tents
A magical riverside retreat near Dorset’s Jurassic Coast
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£14
 / night
Pure & Rustic

17. Pure & Rustic

86%
(7)
7.3km from Ilfracombe · 6 units · Glamping
Acres of beautiful woodlands & pastures for those that like to sleep under canvas with or without electric. Hot showers, Pure Greenfields spring water on tap, designated fire pits to bring out your rawness of nature!! Pure & Rustic is close by to some fantastic local pubs, and the beaches of Croyde, Saunton, Putsborough & Woolacombe. A magical woodland retreat to watch the moon & stars float by..!
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£15
 / night
North End Farm

18. North End Farm

94%
(8)
104km from Ilfracombe · 3 units · Glamping
North End Farm is situated in the spectacular Dorset countryside, yet only a couple of miles from the Jurassic Coast, beaches, pubs, restaurants. Wonderful walks are available on and beyond the farm. The Pavilion is a great place to rest and strike out from. The beach is 1.5 miles away. It is on a network of footpaths in the middle of it's own organic farmland. Bridport and Lyme Regis offer plenty of art and culture and are reknown for food, River Cottage and the Jurassic Coast. There is nothing better than being warm and cosy around the wood burner looking out at the great views. The Pavilion is good for couples, solo adventurers, art lovers, foodies and furry friends (pets)..
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£65
 / night
Splatt Farm Gardens

19. Splatt Farm Gardens

100%
(7)
71km from Ilfracombe · 1 unit · Tent
Classic, simple, farm camping for families near the Quantock Hills
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Coastal Glamping @Hillcroft Escapes

20. Coastal Glamping @Hillcroft Escapes

93%
(23)
102km from Ilfracombe · 5 units · Glamping
A romantic shepherd's hut getaway for two on the Pembrokeshire coast within walking distance of Newgale Beach
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£59
 / night

This quaint harbour town on the North Devon coast is a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its dramatic coastline, remote surrounds, and excellent location within reach of some of the best surf in the UK and Exmoor National Park. Try surfing, get up close with England’s famous moorland ponies, or soak up the sights deep in the Devonshire countryside, with varied accommodation options suited to all manner of Hipcampers. From tent pitches beside beaches to luxury pods in national parks, here are our top picks for your Ilfracombe adventure.

You might be the type of camper who is happy to kick back on the campsite and make the most of campsite life while it lasts: soaking up the sun (fingers crossed), cooking on the campfire or barbecue, letting the kids run wild and enjoying the idyllic scenery of North Devon’s coast and countryside. But there’s also plenty of things to do in Ilfracombe and the surroundings during a holiday in the area. In the town of Ilfracombe itself you can watch the boats coming in and out of the harbour under the watchful eye of Verity, an enormous and controversial sculpture of a pregnant woman by Damian Hirst. Stay on dry land to explore harbour heritage on the Fish Trail, hop aboard a boat for a trip to see the wildlife at Lundy Island or find out about underwater life at the Ilfracombe Aquarium.

The Ilfracombe Museum reveals the history of the town and has an eclectic mix of curiosities from around the world too and no visit to Ilfracombe would be complete without visiting Tunnels Beaches and the Victorian tidal pool. For surfing, sandcastles and family swimming in shallow waters, head for Woolacombe Sands, Saunton Beach or Croyde—all under 10 miles away. Family-friendly attractions in the near area include Watermouth Castle, the Big Sheep Farm Park and Coombe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park.

95% (690) 812 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Ilfracombe

68 Degrees West

1. 68 Degrees West

99%
(99)
99km from Ilfracombe · 10 units · Motorhomes, Glamping
Pod glamping and family camping on the edge of the Brecon Beacons, with a handy location near Brecon town and sunrises you'll never forget.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
from 
£30
 / night
Sweet Hill Farm

2. Sweet Hill Farm

94%
(296)
139km from Ilfracombe · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Simple, almost-wild, seaside camping on the Isle of Portland
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Campsite 360°

3. Campsite 360°

100%
(6)
118km from Ilfracombe · 24 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Campsite 360° – Wild Freedom in the Black Mountains Tucked away in the untamed beauty of the Black Mountains, Campsite 360° is a true off-grid retreat for those seeking peace, space, and adventure. With panoramic views stretching to the horizon, this wild, solar-powered haven offers a rare escape from the noise and rush of modern life. Wake to the sound of birdsong, breathe crisp mountain air, and watch the sun spill across rolling hills and valleys. Whether you pitch a tent under a starlit sky, park up your campervan in a secluded spot, or simply spend your days exploring, Campsite 360° is all about reconnecting with nature – and yourself. Our land is more than a campsite – it’s a living landscape. You’ll find open meadows, sheltered hollows, and vantage points perfect for soaking up 360-degree views. There are no bright city lights here, just a canopy of stars at night and the distant silhouette of mountains by day. We welcome solo travellers, couples, families, and small groups looking for a space to gather, celebrate, or simply unwind. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, the surrounding Black Mountains offer endless opportunities for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. If relaxation is your goal, pull up a chair, light a campfire, and let the world drift away. Facilities & Features: Spacious, unmarked pitches for tents and campervans Off-grid, solar-powered amenities Fresh air and no traffic noise – just nature Fire pits available (wood supplied on request) Pet-friendly – dogs welcome on leads Stunning views in every direction Why Choose Campsite 360°? This is camping as it’s meant to be – simple, peaceful, and in harmony with the land. Our focus is on providing space and freedom, not crowded plots and strict schedules. You’re free to choose your spot, wander the land, and immerse yourself in the rhythms of the natural world. If you’re looking for an authentic wild camping experience with the convenience of a welcoming base, you’ve found it. Come with an open mind, leave with a full heart.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£20
 / night
Wolf Meadows Farm

4. Wolf Meadows Farm

100%
(1)
27km from Ilfracombe · 20 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Relaxed camping in a riverside meadow in north Devon
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£38
 / night
Coverack Camping & Glamping

5. Coverack Camping & Glamping

99%
(200)
147km from Ilfracombe · 162 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Traditional family camping near Coverack, with the promise of coast, countryside and Cornish ice cream
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£12
 / night
Glamping Pods Wales

6. Glamping Pods Wales

100%
(29)
86km from Ilfracombe · 2 units · Glamping
Cosy modern glamping pods with private hot tubs, located in the Brecon Beacons National Park
Showers
Hot Tub
Wifi
from 
£150
 / night
Penylan Cider Farm

7. Penylan Cider Farm

96%
(24)
119km from Ilfracombe · 3 units · Motorhomes, Glamping
Pitches and tiny home glamping on a cider farm in Herefordshire
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£20
 / night
Pwllyn Farm Camping

8. Pwllyn Farm Camping

100%
(219)
91km from Ilfracombe · 19 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A wild-feeling, adult-only campsite in the Brecon Beacons National Park, with impressive views of Pen y Fan
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£13
 / night
Little Eden Riverside Campsite

9. Little Eden Riverside Campsite

98%
(60)
87km from Ilfracombe · 27 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A very warm welcome to our guests at Little Eden, a restful and relaxing, riverside campsite for tents and campervans with grass pitches. We’re in a great spot if you love fishing, kayaking, gorge walking, cycling, seasides, fossil hunting, wild swimming, fell running, bird watching, archaeology or even Viking history! We are 9 miles from the mystical Glastonbury Abbey and Tor and directly on a Sustrans 33 cycle path route. The River Brue runs alongside the campsite with damsel flies fluttering by and kingfishers darting back and forth. We are on the Somerset levels so the sunsets are amazing as well as night time stargazing. We have a private, wooden jetty where you can launch your own paddle board. It’s a perfect get away for campers and nature lovers. Bring your own raised BBQs and logs or buy firewood on site. A family run campsite around 30 miles south of Bristol on the banks of the River Brue, it has a relaxed vibe and we try to keep things simple and straight forward. It’s ideal for doing some day trips nearby, then lighting the BBQ and playing Frisbee (games box you are most welcome to use). Shower and toilet, drinking water, washing-up sink in garden kitchenette. Our big sister site is just 4 miles away, and the café bar at 'Wall Eden Farm' serves fantastic coffee, cake, and family-made Somerset cider. If looking for classic countryside pub meal The Duck at Burtle and The Bird at Westhay are local favourites, be sure to book! Burnham on Sea close by has great fish and chips, a sandy beach, a pier and promenade if you like salty fingers and sandy toes. *DIRECTIONS* Little Eden Adventures is on Goole Maps Postcode takes you within 200 meters of campsite, look for white house with flagpole on stone bridge over river. What3words master.musical.titles. Our grandmother and her 5 sisters grew up milking cattle on the land. It’s steeped in history and archaeology. Bring your fishing rod as there are bream and roach in the River Brue. The site is a dream for cyclists. Electric vehicle charging at Wall Eden Farm with a Farmshop stocked with essential supplies, Moonshine and sweet treats. Sorry no pets as livestock in neighbouring fields. Big Adventures and Little Moments Warmest Wishes, Team Little Eden
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£15
 / night
Digeddi Wildlife Camping

10. Digeddi Wildlife Camping

97%
(129)
117km from Ilfracombe · 14 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Riverside camping and glamping with canoes for hire
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£15
 / night
Berry's Ground Lane Campsite

11. Berry's Ground Lane Campsite

100%
(18)
16km from Ilfracombe · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Lovely wild camping pitches on the North Devon coastline. You will be one of a maximum of 6 pitches in a large field on the beautiful North Devon coast with incredible sea views. We can provide a firepit to borrow and you can purchase logs onsite so you can stargaze and chatter around the fire - back to nature! We are based just outside the pretty hamlet of Martinhoe in North Devon, a stone's throw from the SW Coast Path. There is a historic Roman Beacon closeby and plenty of wildlife around, we'd be surprised if you didn't see deer in the neighbouring fields! There is a compost loo and a water point, but no electricity / wifi - delightfully off-grid. Situated on an organic working farm this is the perfect place to escape!
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£24
 / night
Pentwyn Dingle and Lodge Field Camp

12. Pentwyn Dingle and Lodge Field Camp

97%
(55)
114km from Ilfracombe · 30 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Almost wild camping with good views, near the River Wye and Brecon Beacons
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£10
 / night
Wookey Farm

13. Wookey Farm

98%
(181)
99km from Ilfracombe · 45 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Eco-friendly, campfire-friendly, family-friendly camping on the farm – plus Somerset's famous Wookey Hole caves on the doorstep
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£16
 / night
Secret Spot Camping Saunton

14. Secret Spot Camping Saunton

99%
(140)
10km from Ilfracombe · 12 units · Tents
Finding this exclusive Devon spot is like making it on to the best VIP guest list in town
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£20
 / night
The Enchanted Wilderness

15. The Enchanted Wilderness

93%
(43)
79km from Ilfracombe · 6 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Simple riverside camping pitches in the Tamar Valley on the edge of Dartmoor
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£28
 / night
Frome Meadow Campsite

16. Frome Meadow Campsite

93%
(167)
140km from Ilfracombe · 114 units · Tents
A magical riverside retreat near Dorset’s Jurassic Coast
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£14
 / night
Pure & Rustic

17. Pure & Rustic

86%
(7)
7.3km from Ilfracombe · 6 units · Glamping
Acres of beautiful woodlands & pastures for those that like to sleep under canvas with or without electric. Hot showers, Pure Greenfields spring water on tap, designated fire pits to bring out your rawness of nature!! Pure & Rustic is close by to some fantastic local pubs, and the beaches of Croyde, Saunton, Putsborough & Woolacombe. A magical woodland retreat to watch the moon & stars float by..!
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£15
 / night
North End Farm

18. North End Farm

94%
(8)
104km from Ilfracombe · 3 units · Glamping
North End Farm is situated in the spectacular Dorset countryside, yet only a couple of miles from the Jurassic Coast, beaches, pubs, restaurants. Wonderful walks are available on and beyond the farm. The Pavilion is a great place to rest and strike out from. The beach is 1.5 miles away. It is on a network of footpaths in the middle of it's own organic farmland. Bridport and Lyme Regis offer plenty of art and culture and are reknown for food, River Cottage and the Jurassic Coast. There is nothing better than being warm and cosy around the wood burner looking out at the great views. The Pavilion is good for couples, solo adventurers, art lovers, foodies and furry friends (pets)..
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£65
 / night
Splatt Farm Gardens

19. Splatt Farm Gardens

100%
(7)
71km from Ilfracombe · 1 unit · Tent
Classic, simple, farm camping for families near the Quantock Hills
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Coastal Glamping @Hillcroft Escapes

20. Coastal Glamping @Hillcroft Escapes

93%
(23)
102km from Ilfracombe · 5 units · Glamping
A romantic shepherd's hut getaway for two on the Pembrokeshire coast within walking distance of Newgale Beach
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£59
 / night

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The best farm stays near Ilfracombe guide

Where to go

Around Ilfracombe and the North Devon Coast

There’s no need to travel far outside of Ilfracombe in search of camping options. In fact, luxury retreats, holiday parks, glamping huts, and no-frills campsites can be found all along this stretch, plus farm sites a little way inland. Along the coast, surfing spots such as Croyde Bay boast several beach-accessible sites.

Exmoor National Park

Just east of Ilfracombe, this vast open moorland attracts wildlife lovers with its famous ponies and red deer. A haven for hikers, horse riders, and mountain bikers, as well as sea and river canoeists, there are plenty of options for overnight stays, including farmland camps, luxury yurts, and caravan parks.

Dartmoor National Park

About 45 miles (70 kilometres) south of Ilfracombe, this iconic landscape is home to its own resident ponies, plus unique boglands and tors. Climbing is particularly popular here, as is walking and wild camping—though rules are very strict, so private campsites and caravan parks can be a safer bet.

Blackdown Hills and the East Devon AONBs

Under two hours’ drive southeast of Ilfracombe, these adjoining AONBs provide a glimpse of England’s rural heritage. Woodlands, upland plateaus, ridges, and valleys provide all sorts of outdoor opportunity, while the East Devon Way delivers ramblers directly to the Dorset-Devon coast. Traditional farm camps and trendy glampsites abound in the area.

When to go

Summer is particularly popular on the Devon coast, but the region is generally less busy than its sister-seaside resorts. If you’re hoping to catch a wave or two, early autumn’s your best bet.

Know before you go

  • Ilfracombe isn’t the most easily accessed from London, requiring two trains and a bus, changing at Exeter St Davids.
  • If you plan to explore North Devon’s more secluded spots, it’s worth bringing or hiring your own vehicle.
  • Camping supplies can be picked up in nearby Barnstaple.
  • Most campsites prefer advanced booking, though some allow walk-ins in a pinch.