Our Top ideas ; things to do in North Devon in July (and early August)
While many of our Spreacombe guests return to enjoy their favourite cliff walks and relaxation on the local sandy beaches there’s plenty more to discover if you’re in the mood for something different.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or simply looking for fresh ideas for your July holiday, we’ve rounded up four unmissable experiences to help you make the most of your stay during early summer.
These are our top 4 picks that we have chosen to highlight for July (and early August)
Clovelly - Maritime Festival (July) and Gig Racing (Aug)
Clovelly is a an enchanting village to visit, known for it’s steep cobbled street winding from the visitors centre and parking at the cliff top to the picture-perfect harbour. A visit feels like stepping back in time.
On a normal visit you can expect to pay to enter and walk down the cobbled street, be careful it is 20% steep and can be slippery. Alternatively, you can take a Land Rovers. This service runs from Easter to October on a restricted service from 10am – 4.30pm so check before you rely on it.
Special Clovelly events to look out for are the Clovelly Maritime Festival, July 20th (2025), where you can expect live music, delicious local food, creative workshops, face painting and artisan stalls. Later, in August, Clovelly holds a Gig Regatta, (August 2nd 2025). Here Devon and Cornwall's top gig rowing teams compete in a thrilling day of racing traditional pilot gigs (sea rowing boats), at speeds up to 9 Knots.
The Clovelly website is a good source of further information.
Discover North Devon from the sea: Ilfracombe boat trips & wildlife cruises
Looking to really experience the coast near Woolacombe and Ilfracombe? A fun suggestion is to try a boat trip along North Devon’s stunning coastline, setting off from Ilfracombe Harbour.
For an exciting wildlife experience, Ilfracombe Sea Safari runs high-speed RIB tours in search of dolphins, seals and porpoises all with the back drop of our coastline of Outstanding Natural Beauty, including Lundy Island. I am lead to believe that due to the exceptional stability of the vessel the trips are even suitable for those who don’t usually travel well on boats.
If you prefer a gentler pace, the Ilfracombe Princess offers family-friendly coastal cruises with spectacular views, historic smugglers’ caves, and a chance to see local wildlife. They have 3 cruises to choose from, each taking 1-2 hours.
Both options make for an unforgettable way to explore the North Devon coast during your stay at Spreacombe Gardens.
https://www.visitilfracombe.co.uk/item/ilfracombe-sea-safari/https://www.visitilfracombe.co.uk/item/ilfracombe-wildlife-coastal-cruises/
Ilfracombe harbour, pictured alongside is just 20 minutes from Spreacombe and is well worth a wander around before or after your boat experience.
National Trust Rockpool Ramble, Combesgate Beach, near Woolacombe
Prefer your wildlife safari on solid ground? Try a Rockpool Safari near Woolacombe
If you’re looking for family-friendly wildlife experiences near Spreacombe, the National Trust run Rockpool Safaris at Combesgate Beach. Combesgate is just along the coast from Woolacombe, before Morte Point. These guided sessions are led by expert Beach Rangers who’ll help you spot fish, crabs, starfish, sea snails, and colourful anemones in the lively tidal pools.
For a real adventure, join the Night-Time Rockpool Ramble — a magical experience where you’ll explore after dark using UV torches to uncover the hidden marine life that emerges at night.
Perfect for children of all ages (under 14s must be accompanied), this is a hands-on way to learn about North Devon’s incredible coastal ecosystem.
Booking is essential – call 0344 249 1895 to reserve your place.
Woolacombe Tourist Information have a full list of dates and times
https://www.woolacombetourism.co.uk/events/rockpool-rambles-combesgate-beach
Book a stay at Spreacombe Gardens.
Tucked away in a hidden part of Woolacombe Parish, Spreacombe is a quiet wooded valley ideal for walking (with or without your dog) and perfect for decompressing from the reality of your day-to-day life while still being within easy reach of the coast and all the suggestions above.
I met a man walking his dog this morning in Woolacombe, he had driven quite some miles to find some space to walk. At Spreacombe we invite you to walk around our private estate, check for wildlife on our private pond, go bird watching in the woods and enjoy the quiet of country life all for a reasonable price and all within an easy drive of all the North Devon attractions.
Go on, contact us to see what we can do for your next break - [email protected]
Visit the North Devon Agricultural Show
An event that we go to most years. It is very popular with locals and tourists so we are guaranteed to bump into many of our farming and country colleagues as well as visiting guests
The show runs on the first Wednesday of August (6th this year) and is a one-day celebration of farming, food, crafts and community.
Held at Umberleigh Barton Farm, this traditional agricultural show offers something for everyone, from heavy horse displays and livestock exhibitions to country crafts, live music, and plenty of local food and drink.
It’s a brilliant way to experience the rural heart of North Devon and support local businesses.
Just a short drive from Spreacombe Gardens, the event makes for a great family day out in the summer holidays.
