Things to Do Near Our Ilfracombe Guest House
Walking, cycling, beaches and boat trips — all on your doorstep when you stay at Avoncourt Lodge in North Devon
Ilfracombe, North Devon
Avoncourt Lodge is perfectly positioned on the west side of Ilfracombe, just minutes from the seafront, Tunnels Beaches, and the Landmark Theatre. The picturesque harbour town is a gentle 10-minute downhill walk through the Museum gardens to the promenade — one of North Devon's most charming seaside experiences.
Walk along Capstone Parade — cut in 1843 for Victorian strollers — and visit St Nicholas Chapel, the oldest lighthouse in England. The world-famous Tunnels Beaches, carved through rock in the 1820s, offer protected tidal bathing and fascinating rock pools just minutes from our door.
Damien Hirst's striking Verity sculpture stands at the harbour entrance, and boat trips run from the quay to Lundy Island. With Woolacombe's award-winning beach 15 minutes away and Exmoor National Park within 20 minutes, Ilfracombe is an outstanding base for exploring North Devon.
Activities & Adventures
Coastal Walking
The South West Coast Path runs from our doorstep. The Torrs Walk leads to Lee (3 miles) and Woolacombe (9 miles) along dramatic cliffs with outstanding views. Eastward, reach Combe Martin (6 miles) and Lynton (18 miles).
Cycling
A network of trails runs through Mortehoe, Woolacombe, and out to Barnstaple and Braunton. The Sustrans circuit and Tarka Trail offer varied terrain for every ability. We provide safe cycle storage.
Fishing
Ilfracombe has excellent fishing options with expert guides for full and half-day trips. Our waters are abundant with pollock, cod, and mackerel — bigger fish and shark available seasonally.
Lundy Island
The MS Oldenburg sails from Ilfracombe harbour to Lundy Island — a unique wildlife and nature reserve that's truly a fascinating experience. Book in advance for this unforgettable day out.
Places to Visit
Tunnels Beaches
5 min walkVictorian tidal bathing pools carved through rock, also a stunning wedding venue
Ilfracombe Harbour
15 min walkWorking fishing port with Damien Hirst's Verity, boat trips, and waterfront restaurants
Woolacombe Beach
15 min driveAward-winning sandy beach, perfect for surfing and family days
Exmoor National Park
20 min driveAncient moorland, red deer, and dramatic valleys
Combe Martin
10 min drivePicturesque village with the longest High Street in England
Lynton & Lynmouth
30 min driveVictorian cliff railway connecting twin villages, sometimes called 'Little Switzerland'
Ready to Explore Ilfracombe?
Stay at Avoncourt Lodge — our guest house is the ideal base for discovering everything North Devon has to offer.