A Guide to the Towns and Villages on North Devon (part II)

Great Torrington
Great Torrington has a rich Civil War history (Battle of Great Torrington 1646) and is often referred to as the Cavalier Town. The town is perched on top of an inland cliff giving it some fantastic views of the River Torridge below.

Holsworthy
Holsworthy is a historic market town which was even mentioned in the Doomsday Book. Today it is home to one the biggest and busiest livestock markets in the country.

Ilfracombe
Ilfracombe has a long history haven been settled since the Iron Age. Ilfracombe became on of the nations favorite seaside destinations during the Victorian Period and still to this day thousands flock to its beaches and attractions. The town has its famous Land Mark theatre and No. 11 The Quay Damien Hirst's restaurant.

Lundy Island
Lundy Island is 3 miles long and half a mile wide and was created during the Neolithic period. The island is named after the Norse for ‘Puffin Island' and still today these fascinating birds call this place home. Lundy is now owned by the National Trust and is open to visitors to views the beautiful landscape and views and well as wonder at the wildlife. You reach the island on the MS Oldenburg which sails from Ilfracombe and Bideford, or for something a little more adventurous you can always fly to the island by helicopter.

Lynton & Lynmouth
The two villages are separated by a high sea cliff with Lynmouth at the bottom of the cliff and Lynton overlooking its sister village from top of the cliff. The wooded river valley in which the villages are found is often referred to as the Little Switzerland of England. After the two villages became popular in the Victorian period a cliff railway was built to connect the two villages and provide some stunning views.

South Molton
South Molton first originated in the early Saxon period and was given a Royal Market Charter by Henry VIII. The town has a rich architectural history and can boast a fine reputation for antique and crafts shops as well as award winning tea rooms. Today the market still flourishes with a wide range of stalls every Thursday and Saturday.

Westward Ho!
Westward Ho! was founded in 1863 after the village in Charles Kingsley's book of the same name. Westward Ho! Is also known for being the only place in the UK with an ! in their name. Behind the vast pebble ridges lies Northam Burrows a massive 1000 acres of land to walk and explore. The Village is also home to England's oldest golf course.

Woolacombe
Woolacombe's 3 miles of golden sandy beach is often regarded as one of the very best in the country. The beach is big enough for both families and surfers to enjoy. Next to Woolacombe is the village of Mortehoe with its stone built buildings and 13th century church.

This article was written by Tom Sangers on behalf of The Royal Woolacombe Hotel providing accommodation for a Short Break in North Devon.