Ilfracombe Cottages and Combe Martin Cottages - Book North Devon Holidays - Marsdens Cottage Holidays

Ilfracombe is a stunning coastal town with white washed houses, grand Victorian villas and terraces. Nestling between the National Park of Exmoor to the East and the golden coast with the surfing beaches to the West, it is the perfect location for North Devon holidays, offering you a gateway to an exciting blend of stunning coastal scenery, seaside fun, rural tranquility and centuries of heritage and style. Our Ilfracombe cottages are perfectly located in the town.

Situated in a beautiful and fertile valley on the western edge of Exmoor, Combe Martin lies at the centre of some of North Devon's most spectacular scenery. The approach to Combe Martin, along the coastal road, offers visitors glimpses of some of these stunning views. The two headlands of Great and Little Hangman dominate the scene which greet visitors to the village as they journey down to the pretty sheltered harbour below. Look at our Combe Martin cottages and discover the magic of this village.

Villages and Locations nearby

Ilfracombe

Ilfracombe

In the so called 'jewel' of the county our Ilfracombe cottages have the advantages of Exmoor National Park and Combe Martin to the east and the beaches of North Devon's 'Golden Coast' to the west. Whichever way you wander you will find stunning scenery, seaside fun, rural tranquility and centuries of historical interest with a holiday in Ilfracombe.

Whitewashed houses, grand Victorian villas and traditional terraces typify Ilfracombes genteel elegance, but an Ilfracombe holiday will have a contemporary edge too, the resort offers a fine choice of restaurants and galleries, an iconic theatre and a busy nightlife.

There is a cosmopolitan atmosphere at Ilfracombes quay where pubs, eateries and shops provide a place to watch the world go by, while from the heritage harbour boats carry visitors to Lundy Island, a granite outcrop which is less than a two hour ride away but - so peaceful and unspoilt - seems a world apart.

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Combe Martin

Combe Martin

Combe Martin is known as the 'Gateway to Exmoor'; our cottages in Combe Martin offer you the best of both worlds, with easy access to the stunning coastal area of North Devon's National Park and the 'Golden Coast.'

Our self-catering cottages in Combe Martin are situated where the Exmoor National Park and the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty meet. Holder of a Guinness World Record for staging the world's longest street party, Combe Martin was once a busy silver mining location. Look out for disused mines and evidence of tunnels - Combe Martin silver features in some of the items in the Crown Jewels.

Stunning scenery and great local facilities make this an ideal destination for a cottage holiday in Devon, whether you want to relax on the beach, walk part of the South West Coastal Path or plan an activity-filled Devon holiday.

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Berrynarbor

Berrynarbor

Our self-catering holiday homes in Berrynarbor enjoy access to the rugged North Devon Coast, nearby Exmoor National Park, a popular local pub, post office and community shop, and many walks to the seaside town of Combe Martin and Ilfracombe - perfect for our dog friendly cottages.

Berrynarbour is a small village around 3 miles from Ilfracombe and is a typical Devon holiday location. Cottage holidays in this area are perfect for peace and quiet in the village and then venture to the nearby towns for more entertainment... if you want it that is!!

To the west is Ilfracombe which is a thriving North Devon holiday resort and forms a gateway to North Devon's 'Golden Coast.'

If you walk from your self-catering cottages in Berrynarbor in any direction, you will find beautiful scenery, the stunning North Devon coast, miles of Devonshire countryside and all littered with the deep history of this wonderful county.

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Hele Bay

Hele Bay

Our cottages in Hele are just a few minutes stroll from the small sand and shingle cove of Hele Bay. Perfectly placed between the popular town of Ilfracombe and just five minutes drive from Watermouth Castle, the secluded harbour of Watermouth Cove and Hillsborough Nature Reserve; Hele Bay is an ideal base for exploring this designated area of outstanding natural beauty.

For the energetic an 18 hole golf course, indoor swimming pool and the South West Coastal Path is nearby. For serious sand and surf lovers the award winning beaches of Woolacombe and Croyde are just a short drive away.

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Activities in or near Ilfracombe and Combe Martin

Ilfracombe Princess Wildlife Coastal Cruises, Ilfracombe Harbour

Spectacular wildlife and coastal cruises aboard "Ilfracombe Princess" one of the most technologically advanced passenger vessels in the U.K....Read more >

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Attractions in or near Ilfracombe and Combe Martin

Watermouth Castle & Family Theme Park, nr Ilfracombe

Overlooking the picturesque Watermouth Cove, Watermouth Castle Offers a unique and fun day out, with attractions and entertainment for all ages....Read more >

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Ilfracombe Princess, Ilfracombe

Based in Ilfracombe Harbour the Ilfracombe Princess cruises frequently sight seals, porpoises and dolphins....Read more >

Combe Martin Wildlife & Dinosaur Park

Our Wildlife and Dinosaur Park is a set in the tranquill Devonshire countryside, overlooking the coastal town of Combe Martin. We have a variety of animals on display at the park, with regular animal shows by the Sealions, Falconry and daily talks on our favourite beasts throughout each day. We also have other attractions, such as our fantastic Lightshow, our incredible Anamatronic Dinosaurs, including a Life Sized Tyranosaurus Rex!...Read more >

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Tunnels Beaches, Ilfracombe

Tunnels Beaches lies within a designated area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is part of a Voluntary Marine Conservation area. We consistently surpass the highest possible standards for EU sea water testing and are currently the proud holders of the prestigious Blue Flat beach award, and Quality Coast award....Read more >

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Chambercombe C.11th Manor House, Ilfracombe

Steeped in legends, this 11th Century Manor House was first recorded in The Domesday Book. Listen to intriguing tales of Wreckers living at the house followed by a walk around the gardens and a delicious cream tea....Read more >

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Exmoor Zoological Park

Lots of exciting exotic and rare animals and birds can be seen at the zoo. They are all displayed in natural surroundings which helps them relax and helps our visitors to see them as close as possible....Read more >

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Ilfracombe Aquarium, Ilfracombe

Experience the fascinating journey from an Exmoor Stream to the Atlantic Ocean in this wonderful award winninng aquarium....Read more >

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Keypitts Stables n’Quads

Keypitts offer an unforgettable, fun filled day out for all the family!Whether its blasting across the fields on a quad bike, a heart stopping 4×4 off-road experience, shooting your best mate on the paintball site or aleisurely horse ride through stunning farmland. There's sure to be something for everyone...Read more >

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Events in or near Ilfracombe and Combe Martin

Ilfracombe Powerboat Racing - August 2011

28/29 August 2011. Major power boat and thundercat circuit racing off...Read more >

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Ilfracombe Rescue Day August 2011

18th August. Coastguard. Police Force. Fire Brigade. RAF 22 Squadron Rescue Helicopter. RNLI Lifeboat. Lifeguards. Exmoor Search and Rescue. Ambulance Service and many more. Meet the real-life professionals and learn what it takes to keep us safe....Read more >

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Ilfracombe Victorian Week June 2011

11-19th June. Ilfracombe's bygone days are celebrated in this annual event. Visitors & locals alike dress up in magnificent victorian costumes and parade at an array of venues throughout the week. The whole week culminates in a promenade concert followed by spectacular firework display. Everyone is welcome to join in the fun of our events and entertainments celebrating the splendour of this exciting age. Many townspeople don Victorian costume for the week, while a full programme of activities is hosted from parades to concerts and shows....Read more >

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Stawberry Fayre, Combe Martin - 5th June 2011

The traditional start to the strawberry season is early June. Combe Martin was, at one time, a large producer of strawberries. Grown and packed for resale, the strawberries were sold all over Devon and further afield....Read more >

Ilfracombe Rescue Day - 10th August 2011

Ilfracombe Rescue Day is a great family day out and wonderful opportunity for members of the public to learn about the activities of the emergency services.  The highlight of the day is a simulated air-sea rescue involving the launch of the Ilfracombe RNLI lifeboat, a Sea King helicopter from RAF 22 Squadron, Exmoor Search and Rescue team and local Fire, Ambulance and HM Coastguard services. If you are interested in Ilfracombe Rescue Day then why not stay in one of our Ilfracombe cottages and make a week of it!...Read more >

2011 Spring North Devon & Exmoor Walking Festival, 29th April to 8th May

The Spring walking festival will be over 10 days, covering two weekends. It will cover all North Devon, Exmoor and the Quantock Hills. To make this fully accessible to walkers, the festival starts in north Devon, covering all north Devon and its AONB. The first five days of the festival will have 30 guided walks on offer in this area. This will enable participants to stay within north Devon, keeping the walks within easy reach....Read more >

Square Dancing, Ilfracombe 1st March

Square Dancing Parish Church Rooms, Church Road, Ilfracombe Tuesday 1st March 8:15 pm...Read more >

Games Night & Pot Luck Supper, 2nd March Gampus Inn, Lee

Games Night & Pot Luck Supper, 2nd March Gampus Inn, Lee 7pm...Read more >

Spend an evening with John Campbell who is Hendrix personified! 4th March Landmark Theatre

Are you Experienced? Spend an evening with John Campbell who is Hendrix personified! 4th March Landmark Theatre, Ilfracombe 8pm...Read more >

Open Mic night. Grampus Inn, Lee 7pm

Open Mic night. Grampus Inn, Lee 7pm...Read more >

The Big Ballet, 6th March Landmark Theatre Ilfracombe

The Big Ballet, these plus size Russian ballerinas will enterain you with all the grace, elegance, charisma and nimbleness you would expect! Landmark Theatre Ilfracombe 7.30pm...Read more >

Square Dancing Parish Church Rooms, Church Road Ilfracombe

Square Dancing Parish Church Rooms, Church Road Ilfracombe 20.15pm...Read more >

Games Night & Pot Luck Supper. 11th March Grampus Inn, Lee 7pm

Games Night & Pot Luck Supper. 11th March Grampus Inn, Lee 7pm...Read more >

Square Dancing, 15th March Parish Church Rooms, Church Rd, Ilfracombe 8.15pm

Square Dancing, Parish Church Rooms, Church Rd, Ilfracombe 8.15pm...Read more >

Combe Martin Earl of Rhone 20 May 2011 to 23 May 2011

...Read more >

Strawberry Fair, Combe Martin 05 June 2011

...Read more >

Ilfracombe Victorian Week 11 June 2011 to 19 June 2011

Week-long programme of events. 01271 863001...Read more >

North Devon Festival

Now in its thirteenth year, the North Devon Festival proudly celebrates North Devon’s beauty as well as its rich cultural life. It continues to champion the very best of local talent alongside worldwide stars of stage and screen in hundreds of individual events....Read more >

Pubs and Nightclubs in or near Ilfracombe and Combe Martin

Black Venus Award Winning Pub, Challcombe, Near Barnstaple, EX31 4TT

Pack o’Cards

Situated in the beautiful seaside town of Combe Martin, the Pack o' Cards Inn is a unique Grade II Ancient Monument and has been feautured on the Paul Daniels Magic Show on BBC television....Read more >

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Ye Olde Globe

in the pretty village of Berrynarbor, which has won many awards such as Britain in Bloom and Best kept village, is Ye Olde Globe, a traditional character pub filled with antiques and curios. It first became a pub in 1675, having been converted from a row of three cottages reputed to date from about 1280. The Lime-ash floors are over 400 years old and there is still a well located under the darts area....Read more >

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The Pier Tavern

Tel: 01271 870237...Read more >

Dolphin Inn

Log fire, patio area and lovely restaurant views over the bay. Reputed for its ales, wines and home cooked food....Read more >

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Restaurants and Cafes in or near Ilfracombe and Combe Martin

Harbour House Cafe

Tel: 01271 882918...Read more >

Gill’s Sandwich Bar & Takeaway

Open everyday 11.30am - 11pm...Read more >

The Terrace Tapas & Wine Bar

The Terrace Tapas Bar in Ilfracombe, as its names suggest, serves authentic Spanish Tapas. A perennial favorite, the warmth of service and an unhurried, relax style of dining have been a huge hit. Share great food with friends in a truly continental atmosphere, while away an evening, wash down with Rioja and good conversation. Perfect....Read more >

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Seventy One Restaurant

Nestled in Ilfracombe's historic Fore Street and only 100yards from one of the prettiest harbours on Devon's north coast, Seventy One has built an enviable reputation for consistently good food. Modern furnishings with a continental feel, original artwork and decor combined with an attention to detail have all contributed to the success. Using the best of Devon's fresh produce makes sure that the food takes centre stage with some excellent fish dishes featured during the summer months....Read more >

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Ilfracombe Tandoori Restaurant

13/14 High Street,...Read more >

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Emperor’s Court

Open daily from 5pm offering Malaysian and Chinese cuisine to eat in or take away. Eat as much as you like available Monday to Sunday. Fully Licensed. Children welcome. Bookings advised to avoid disappointment. English dishes also available....Read more >

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Basils Restaurant

54 Fore Street,...Read more >

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Shops in or near Ilfracombe and Combe Martin

Local Farm Box

Local Farm Box promises to deliver the freshest vegetables and fruits from your local farms and independent producers to your doorstep at supermarket-busting prices. Our range of fresh produce is vast – enough to fill a range of weekly boxes to suit every household. What’s more, you can make the most of your free delivery by topping up with additional fruit and veg, salads, meats, dairy, eggs, and a whole lot more....Read more >

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Indicknowle Farm Shop

A family run farm producing award winning traditional farmhouse cider, quality Ruby Red Beef, Lamb, Pork and Honey. All meat sold at Indicknowle is from animals born here and lovingly reared on the farm using traditional farming methods. Indicknowle cider is produced on the farm using original Victorian equipment; we follow the same methods used by our family since the 1870's....Read more >

Walks and views in or near Ilfracombe and Combe Martin

Ilfracombe Princess Wildlife Coastal Cruises, Ilfracombe Harbour

Spectacular wildlife and coastal cruises aboard "Ilfracombe Princess" one of the most technologically advanced passenger vessels in the U.K....Read more >

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