Holiday rentals in Ilfracombe

This North Devon seaside town looks as if it’s been carefully tucked into the green hills that surround it. Ilfracombe’s quirky little harbour is surrounded by multicoloured houses that stand out cheerfully against its beautiful backdrop, while small boats gather near the sandy beach to take you out to nearby Lundy Island or for a tour of the local sea life, which includes seals and porpoises. The port’s long history has left a charmingly higgledy-piggledy effect, with cottages and pubs of many vintages added over the centuries. You’ll also notice the influence of the Georgians, who came here to bathe in the town centre and at the local Tunnels beaches, carved out of the Ilfracombe rock by Welsh miners to create a shortcut to the sea, and still a popular place to enjoy the waters. Nearby coves offer wilder beaches, and the South West Coast Path leads you to the craggy splendour of the Torrs (or Seven Hills), with their coastal flora and clifftop views out over the Bristol Channel.

Summer is the most popular time to visit Ilfracombe, especially in July and August, when temperatures tend to peak. But you can enjoy plenty of warm weather in June and September too. Spring can be lovely, when the beaches are a lot quieter and their woodland surroundings take on a fresh colour with bluebells and orchids. You will find some ancient traditions on display in Ilfracombe, such as the Jack in the Green parade on May Day weekend, and a celebration of Morris dancing in July, as well as a number of sporting events throughout the year, including an annual regatta and the Lundy Yacht Race in June. In September, hundreds of bikers arrive in town for the Ilfracombe Bike Show.

St Nicholas Chapel

This 14th-century chapel turned lighthouse is Ilfracombe’s most historical landmark, sitting on the promontory at the north of the harbour, 140 feet above the waterline. It’s a steep but worthwhile climb up Lantern Hill to peek into its chancel, and look out over the water and houses below.

Cairn Woodland Local Nature Reserve

To the south of town, this 15-acre woodland reserve is located on and around what was once the old railway line to Barnstaple. It’s a lovely place to walk, teeming with wildlife and offering spectacular long-range views from Cairn Top, 520 feet above sea level.

Hele Bay

This sandy cove just five minutes along the coast from Ilfracombe is a quiet bathing retreat dotted with caves and rock pools. Up from the beach, the little village has a pub, tea rooms, and a 16th-century corn mill, overlooked by the grassy clifftop (and Iron Age fort) of the Hillsborough nature reserve.