Ilfracombe, Coastal town and civil parish in North Devon, England
Description
Ilfracombe is a coastal town and civil parish in North Devon, England, set on steep cliffs around a natural harbor. Pastel-colored houses stretch along the waterfront and climb green hillsides, while narrow lanes lead down to the harbor pier.
History
The settlement began in the Middle Ages as a fishing harbor and trading post on the Bristol Channel. During the 19th century it transformed into a seaside resort when steamships from Wales brought wealthy visitors to its beaches.
Culture
The name comes from Old English and means valley of the river Yeo, a stream that still runs through the town today. At the harbor, visitors watch fishermen at work and tour boats departing for seal and bird-watching trips.
Practical
The town is reached by steep, winding roads that descend through wooded hills, making the drive slow but scenic. Coastal walking paths lead to neighboring coves and offer views of the Welsh coast on clear days.
Did you know?
At Tunnels Beach, hand-carved tunnels from the 1820s cut through rock to four separate coves with tidal pools. Local swimmers use the sheltered pools year-round, even in winter when the sea outside is rough.
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Verity
669 m
Watermouth Castle
2.8 km
Chambercombe Manor
1.5 km
Hillsborough, Devon
1.2 km
Parish Church of Holy Trinity
648 m
Slade Reservoirs
2.7 km
The Old Town Hall
174 m
Ilfracombe Aquarium
570 m
Ilfracombe Lighthouse
600 m
Church of St Matthew
3.6 km
St Nicholas' Chapel and Lighthouse
600 m
Emmanuel Church
263 m
Ship And Pilot Inn
343 m
Parish Church of Saint Philip and St James
319 m
Church of St Peter Including Gate Piers,Gates And Retaining Wall At East And West Ends
146 m
Hele Beach
1.6 km
Masonic Temple Including Front Area Railings
422 m
Gaiety Theatre, Ilfracombe
246 m
George And Dragon Public House
280 m
Berkeley Hotel
369 m
The Royal Britannia Hotel
416 m
Wildersmouth Beach
294 m
Ilfracombe Library
170 m
Embassy Cinema
151 m
Old Maids Cottage
3.7 km
The Old Schoolroom
3.7 km
The Wellington Public House
432 mCherry Tree Cottage, Cherry Tree Bungalow And Old Forge Cottage
5.4 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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