Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Saunton Sands

"The idea of going to a beach to swim in a pool might seem unusual, but Tunnel Beach is odd in many ways. The name comes from the fact that you have to walk through tunnels dug by the Victorians to reach the beach itself. On arrival, you can either swim in the sea proper or a specially sectioned off sea-water pool, which is a great option for choppy days."

"Steeped in history, Tunnels Beaches makes a fascinating visit for all ages. Hand carved in the 1820's, the four tunnels provide a truly unique experience. Read extensive history information throughout the site – including hilarious guides to Victorian etiquette for boys, girls and for when boating with ladies!"

"On the harbour inside the Old Lifeboat House, the Ilfracombe Aquarium studies North Devon’s aquatic life. You’ll get a close look at a wide assortment of fish, crabs, starfish, octopuses and sea anemones that live in the Lundy Marine Conservation Zone and Ilfracombe’s harbour and rockpools, as well as the species inhabiting North Devon’s streams and rivers. There are more than 75 species to see, while the experienced fish keeper guides have interesting insights and put on regular feeding demonstrations."

"Award-winning Ilfracombe Aquarium is the resort’s great family fun all weather attraction located within the town’s Old Lifeboat House. See over 75 species of marine life in their own recreated natural environments. This fabulous interactive attraction has a real educational edge with zoned areas exploring life in estuaries, rockpooling, harbours and marine life around Lundy Island reserve."

"Nestled away from the coastline itself, Chambercombe Manor is a Norman manor house that dates all the way back to the 11th century. Here, you’ll learn many interesting tales and information about the history of the manor and eerie rooms. In fact, it’s considered to be one of the most haunted buildings in the country."

"Set in a secluded valley, nestling snugly near the Heritage Coast of Ilfracombe, North Devon, the Manor House is thought to date from the 11th century and was mentioned in the Domesday Book.Read More"

"A most unique and intriguing property, steeped in mystery and unrivalled history from the Saxon era to the modern day."

"The regal Watermouth Castle is a Gothic Revival stately home, built for the Bassett family in 1825. The Bassetts departed in 1945 and the castle has become an acclaimed and wide-ranging family attraction. You can visit the interior for a splendid array of antiques like furniture, old-time amusement machines, workshop tools and suits of armour."

"The Watermouth Family Theme Park was built to resemble a castle. The gardens are well maintained and it’s a great place for families!. The Castle’s Great Hall has a collection of magnificent suits of armour, classic handcarts, and sporting trophies."

"A little way back from Hele Bay in the Hillsborough Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty there’s a working 16th century corn mill, grinding and selling wholemeal flour. You can take a tour of this picturesque whitewashed building to see the National Diesel Engine in action and have a go at grinding your own flour with a quern-stone. Hele Corn Mill also has an award-winning tearoom preparing tempting homemade cakes and scones for cream teas using the mill’s own flour."

"Not too far from Hele Bay Beach sits Hele Corn Mill & Tea Room, a water mill which had been milling flour since the 16th century. They have a wide array of cakes to choose from and the outstanding Devonshire cream tea. It is recommended to check opening dates online before going down."

"Friendly, family boutique hotel with beautiful gardens and lovely views. The Elmfield has an indoor heated swimming pool with sauna. There is a well-equipped games room, licensed bar and a playroom for all ages."

"07/06/2021: Visited due to high recommendation on Trip advisor. We had not expected the decor...it looked a bit like a teletubby set with bright tables and AstroTurf!. ...didn't seem in keeping with the thatched pub."

"The Thatched Inn is a traditional historic pub situated in the small village of Abbotsham. Formerly a Tradesman pub, The Thatched Inn has been the heart of the local community for the past 400 years."

"The quickest and easiest way for you to book a table is using our Opentable widget below!. We have plenty of tables, however it is always best to book a ..."

"7 The Quay, Ilfracombe EX34 9EQ EnglandSeafood, Fast Food, BritishLunch, Dinner, Brunch, DrinksTakeout, Seating, Street Parking, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Free Wifi, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service[email protected]+44 1271 879297http://www.thedolphinilfracombe.co.uk/"

"28/05/2021: We're seafood/fish lovers so were really looking forward to visiting Espresso.We arrived and the waitress explained that our table wasn't quite ready so could we sit outside for a bit....no problem with this with the current problems. We were given menus and our table was very shortly ready. My husband chose potted shrimps for a starter only to be told that sorry that was not available.....please tell us what is not available when you hand out the menus!"

"1 St. James Place, Ilfracombe EX34 9BH EnglandSeafood, BritishLunch, DinnerReservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Table Service+44 1271 855485http://www.seafoodrestaurantilfracombe.co.uk"

"1 St. James Place, Ilfracombe EX34 9BH, EnglandReservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Waitstaff, Serves Alcohol, Full BarSeafood, British, Gluten Free OptionsLunch, DinnerHK$8+44 1271 855485"

"Where: EX34 9ED / 5 minutes’ drive away If you fancy a little 25 minute walk, pop to the George & Dragon for some delicious and traditional pub grub with a friendly atmosphere from this family run pub, by landlords Linda and Jonathan. Enjoy an evening out with your puppy and relax in the beautiful setting of Ilfracombe Harbour by testing your taste buds with wonderful homemade food, which is served every day, with the George & Dragon open every day from 11:30am to midnight. The pub also has a range of fun events all year round, including live music, pub quizzes and even spontaneous jam sessions."

"Just as with any seaside town worth its salt, there are plenty of good pubs in Ilfracombe, and the George and Dragon is certainly one of them. It dates to 1360, making it the oldest establishment in Ilfracombe, as evidenced by the wooden beams that nod to yesteryear. There’s a strong selection of local ales, a small but creative food menu, and darts, dominoes and playing cards available by request."

"The Capstone is Ilfracombe’s only hotel in the bustling Harbour area and ideally located to make the most of the vibrant restaurants and bars nearby. Not only is The Capstone the closest hotel to the Lundy island ferry it is also within level walking distance. The acclaimed restaurant serves fresh fish landed daily at the harbour and expertly prepared local produce.Originally two Victorian boarding houses, all our individual en-suite bedrooms are on the second and top floor and feature free WiFi, LCD HD TV's, DVD players, hairdryers, ironing facilities, crisp white linen and complimentary tea and coffee."