Weekend in North Devon

If you are looking for a weekend that balances a colourful, independent spirit with wild coastal energy, Bideford and its surroundings are calling. We are admittedly a little biased because we absolutely love our local area, but we truly believe it offers something special. We've mapped out the perfect itinerary that hits all our favourite local haunts, from savoury galettes to vintage treasures.

Saturday: Art, Appetites and Hidden Cliffs

Morning: Start your day at Café du Parc, tucked inside the Burton Art Gallery. We recommend checking ahead, but on Saturdays they typically serve their legendary galettes, which are truly the BEST. After fuelling up, take a slow wander through the gallery. It is the perfect way to get into a creative headspace before hitting the shops.

Once you've had your fill of fine art, head over to Sunshine and Snow. Spread across two floors, you can get lost in the curated collection of womenswear, menswear and vibrant homewares. It would be rude not to have a coffee while you are here, as we think they make the best brew in town ;)

Next, take a short stroll to Bideford Pottery. They specialise in traditional North Devon slipware, offering beautiful and functional art that is surprisingly affordable; get yourself a cool mug or jug as a souvenir. For the vintage lovers, Biblo at the other end of town is a must-visit for second-hand gems. You will need to get in touch to book a private viewing, but the hunt is well worth the effort. Before you leave the town centre, swing by Hirons & Son's. Their sausage rolls are the stuff of local legend, so buy one to save for later (on your coastal walk)

Saturday Afternoon:  Depending on the weather and how you are feeling, we recommend three different ways to spend your afternoon. You could head to RHS Rosemoor to explore the beautiful gardens and floral inspiration, or visit Clovelly for a slice of old-school charm with its steep cobbled streets and amazing harbour views. Alternatively, if you want to escape the crowds, head to the Abbotsham cliffs for a rugged walk. The stretch toward Cornborough is dramatic and beautifully wild, offering vast Atlantic views and a real sense of peace. It is the perfect spot to find a bench, look out over the ocean and enjoy that sausage roll.

Saturday Dinner:  To wrap up your Saturday, head over to  The Farmers Arms in Woolsery for an unmissable gastro-pub experience.

Sunday: Salt Air and Relaxed Afternoons

Morning: Wake up with the tides in Croyde. It is one of the most iconic surf spots in the UK and there is no better place to get in the water. If you are a beginner or want to try surfing for the first time, get hooked up with the team at Surf South West. They have been on the beach since 1996 and are brilliant at getting people onto their first waves.

If you are not a water person, the Baggy Point circular walk is amazing. It takes you along the headland, providing excellent vantage points over Croyde Bay and Bideford Bay.

The Braunton Pit-Stop After your morning outing, head over to Heartbreak Hotel Coffee in Braunton. They serve amazing coffee, bread and pastries to help you refuel. Once you are fed, pop into Wanderlust Life just down the road. They create beautiful, minimal jewellery that is handcrafted right here in North Devon.

Afternoon: Time to Unwind After your morning activity, you might be feeling a little tired and ready for a more relaxed afternoon. If you still have some energy, head over to Appledore to take photos of the beautiful, colourful narrow streets. You can take a walk along the quay or stop in for a pint at The Royal George.

Option two is to head north to the Valley of the Rocks for some photo opportunities in the amazing landscape. If there is time, head back down to Ilfracombe to check out the impressive Victorian architecture.

The Farewell Dinner Cap off your weekend back in Croyde at the new Japanese restaurant called Roku. With a focus on seasonal ingredients and precise flavours, it is a sophisticated and soulful way to end your North Devon adventure.