Caroline Abbott
02 December 2025
On the coast of North Devon lies the popular seaside resort of Woolacombe, renowned for its award-winning, world-class beach. This 3-mile stretch of golden sand has room for everyone, and boasts clean waters that are great for surfing, swimming and water sports.
The large village has good transport links, plenty of shops, and even a tiny cinema, and there’s plenty to do in the area, including walking, cycling, riding and a variety of family attractions. If you’re wondering whether this dreamy coastal resort has anywhere good to eat and drink, then look no further.
From fine-dining establishments to lively bars, beach cafes and traditional pubs, you’ll find a range of options to suit every budget. If our guide to the best restaurants in Woolacombe gets your taste buds tingling, simply click the button below to discover all our self-catering properties in this fabulous seaside destination.
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Restaurants in Woolacombe
Beach House Restaurant
This highly acclaimed, small, family-run restaurant serves mainly fresh, local seafood cooked to order, including half-lobsters when in season. It’s open for lunch, dinner (usually two sittings) and drinks from mid-February to the end of October.
Diners love the relaxed and friendly atmosphere at the Beach House, praising the crab salad and seafood linguine in particular. Sunday roasts are highly popular, too. There’s a children’s menu, and most dishes can be made gluten-free. Booking is highly advisable.
Good to know
- Where is Beach House Restaurant? 3 West Road, Woolacombe EX34 7BW
- How much does it cost to dine at Beach House Restaurant? Mid range
- Are dogs allowed at Beach House Restaurant? Yes, well-behaved dogs are more than welcome, and dog treats are often available
- Stay nearby: Clevelands | sleeps 6
Barricane Beach Café
Set on the secluded beach at the far northern end of Woolacombe, the summer-only Barricane Beach Café serves freshly made snacks during the day, including salads, cream teas and home-made cakes.
From 5pm to 7pm (June to September, in dry weather) there’s a special surprise on offer – a variety of authentic Sri Lankan dishes, aka ‘curry on the beach’. Bring a blanket or a beach chair (tables are limited) and maybe a bottle of wine, and you can watch the sun set over the waves as you eat.
Good to know
- Where is the Barricane Beach Café? Barricane Beach, The Esplanade, Woolacombe EX34 7AS
- How much does it cost to dine at the Barricane Beach Café? Less expensive
- Are dogs allowed at the Barricane Beach Café? Yes, but they must be kept on a lead
- Stay nearby: 1 Devon Beach Court | Sleeps 6
Restaurant NC
For fine dining in an intimate setting, Restaurant NC (Noel Corston) is a must. This critically acclaimed establishment serves a multi-course tasting menu around the open kitchen island, so every diner gets a close-up view of the chef at work.
Creative, flavoursome dishes are built around the seasons and sourced locally, utilising Devon’s finest fish, meat, fruit and vegetables, and can be accompanied by an optional wine flight. There’s just one sitting at 7pm and, with only eight to ten places available, advance booking is essential.
Good to know
- Where is Restaurant NC? South Street, Woolacombe EX34 7BB
- How much does it cost to dine at Restaurant NC? High end
- Are dogs allowed at Restaurant NC? This unique venue is not appropriate for dogs
- Stay nearby: The Horseshoe | Sleeps 4
Bay Brasserie & Bar
From mid-morning tea, coffee and cakes, through lunch and sandwiches to a-la-carte evening meals, the Bay Brasserie showcases seasonal flavours, with meals served in a vibrant, light-filled courtyard.
You’ll find pasta, burgers, pizza, steak, locally sourced seafood and more, with vegetarian and vegan options always available, and family-friendly dining in the form of a special children’s menu and colouring-in at the table. Advance booking is advised.
Good to know
- Where is the Bay Brasserie? Woolacombe Bay Hotel, South Street, Woolacombe EX34 7BN
- How much does it cost to dine at the Bay Brasserie? Mid range
- Are dogs allowed at the Bay Brasserie? Yes, on a lead, and please advise when booking
- Stay nearby: Millrock Cottage | Sleeps 4 + 1 dog
Pubs in Woolacombe
The Tides Inn
The sea views from the sunny terrace of The Tides Inn are fabulous, while in winter months you can snuggle up near the warmth of the pub’s open fire. This highly rated destination welcomes families and dogs, and offers freshly cooked food, from snacks to three-course dinners – with Sunday roasts an option too. While reservations aren’t always necessary, it’s recommended to call ahead to check availability.
Good to know
- Where is The Tides Inn? Beach Road, Woolacombe EX34 7BP
- How much does it cost to dine at The Tides Inn? Mid range
- Are dogs allowed at The Tides Inn? Yes, the pub is dog-friendly
- Stay nearby: Seablue Loft | Sleeps 2
Bar Electric
Bar Electric is a seasonal café, restaurant, bar and takeaway with a lively atmosphere and friendly service. Dine on the terrace and you’ll have sea views; inside the vibe is smart, modern and stylish. With regular open-mic nights and DJ sets, this is a great place for a family lunch, a post-surf cocktail or a fun night out with friends.
Good to know
- Where is Bar Electric? Beach Road, Woolacombe EX34 7BP
- How much does it cost to dine at Bar Electric? Mid range
- Are dogs allowed at Bar Electric? Yes, dogs are allowed both inside and outside
- Stay nearby: Bay Waves – C4 | Sleeps 4 + 2 dogs
The Barn
Formerly known as The Red Barn, The Barn re-opened in spring 2025 after a major refurbishment. The menu has something for everyone, from small plates, salads and sandwiches to comforting classics such as mac and cheese or chilli con carne. Family- and dog-friendly, the pub, bar and restaurant also serve Sunday lunch, fish and chips, ice cream, drinks and coffee. Choose from its sun-soaked terrace or the variety of cosy indoor areas, intimate and more social, in the modern English interior, which is warmed by fires in the winter.
Good to know
- Where is The Barn? Barton Road, Woolacombe EX34 7DF
- How much does it cost to dine at The Barn? Mid range
- Are dogs allowed at The Barn? Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome
- Stay nearby: Beach Escape | Sleeps 4 + 2
The Jube
Quality food at reasonable prices, with friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere – The Jube offers it all. Classic food options include burgers of all kinds, scampi, lasagne, fish pie, various salads and light bites – all washed down with an impressive selection of wines, beers, spirits, cocktails and non-alcoholic options. There’s a kids’ menu, and the pub staff will do everything they can to help with allergens and dietary requirements, too. Family-owned for several generations, The Jube is tucked away in the heart of Woolacombe and is worth seeking out.
Takeaways in Woolacombe
Woolacombe Bay Burger & Pizza Company
When you’re hungry after a long surf, a clifftop ramble or a day out at a family attraction, nothing beats a burger or pizza. The family-run Woolacombe Bay Burger & Pizza Company has been dishing up American-style deep-pan pizza since 2007, and also offers burgers made with beef from Devon and Cornwall farms. Open every evening for takeaways, it’s much loved for its great-tasting food and good value for money.
Good to know
- Where is the Woolacombe Bay Burger & Pizza Company? South Street, Woolacombe EX34 7BB
- How much does it cost to dine at the Woolacombe Bay Burger & Pizza Company? Less expensive
- Stay nearby: Tides Edge, Woolacombe | Sleeps 6 + 3 dogs
Stay with us in Woolacombe
Can’t wait to sample the delicious food and drink on offer in Woolacombe’s restaurants and pubs? Then book your holiday cottage in this charming seaside destination today – starting with just a quick click on the link below.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.