The best farm stays near Ilfracombe

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This quaint harbour town on the North Devon coast is a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its dramatic coastline, remote surrounds, and excellent location within reach of some of the best surf in the UK and Exmoor National Park. Try surfing, get up close with England’s famous moorland ponies, or soak up the sights deep in the Devonshire countryside, with varied accommodation options suited to all manner of Hipcampers. From tent pitches beside beaches to luxury pods in national parks, here are our top picks for your Ilfracombe adventure.

You might be the type of camper who is happy to kick back on the campsite and make the most of campsite life while it lasts: soaking up the sun (fingers crossed), cooking on the campfire or barbecue, letting the kids run wild and enjoying the idyllic scenery of North Devon’s coast and countryside. But there’s also plenty of things to do in Ilfracombe and the surroundings during a holiday in the area. In the town of Ilfracombe itself you can watch the boats coming in and out of the harbour under the watchful eye of Verity, an enormous and controversial sculpture of a pregnant woman by Damian Hirst. Stay on dry land to explore harbour heritage on the Fish Trail, hop aboard a boat for a trip to see the wildlife at Lundy Island or find out about underwater life at the Ilfracombe Aquarium.

The Ilfracombe Museum reveals the history of the town and has an eclectic mix of curiosities from around the world too and no visit to Ilfracombe would be complete without visiting Tunnels Beaches and the Victorian tidal pool. For surfing, sandcastles and family swimming in shallow waters, head for Woolacombe Sands, Saunton Beach or Croyde—all under 10 miles away. Family-friendly attractions in the near area include Watermouth Castle, the Big Sheep Farm Park and Coombe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park.

95% (689) 802 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Ilfracombe

Glan Y Mor Camping

1. Glan Y Mor Camping

98%
(83)
77km from Ilfracombe · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
A super-friendly, family-run campsite on the edge of Pembroke
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£17
 / night
Campsite 360°

2. Campsite 360°

100%
(6)
118km from Ilfracombe · 24 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Campsite 360° – Wild Freedom in the Black Mountains Tucked away in the untamed beauty of the Black Mountains, Campsite 360° is a true off-grid retreat for those seeking peace, space, and adventure. With panoramic views stretching to the horizon, this wild, solar-powered haven offers a rare escape from the noise and rush of modern life. Wake to the sound of birdsong, breathe crisp mountain air, and watch the sun spill across rolling hills and valleys. Whether you pitch a tent under a starlit sky, park up your campervan in a secluded spot, or simply spend your days exploring, Campsite 360° is all about reconnecting with nature – and yourself. Our land is more than a campsite – it’s a living landscape. You’ll find open meadows, sheltered hollows, and vantage points perfect for soaking up 360-degree views. There are no bright city lights here, just a canopy of stars at night and the distant silhouette of mountains by day. We welcome solo travellers, couples, families, and small groups looking for a space to gather, celebrate, or simply unwind. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, the surrounding Black Mountains offer endless opportunities for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. If relaxation is your goal, pull up a chair, light a campfire, and let the world drift away. Facilities & Features: Spacious, unmarked pitches for tents and campervans Off-grid, solar-powered amenities Fresh air and no traffic noise – just nature Fire pits available (wood supplied on request) Pet-friendly – dogs welcome on leads Stunning views in every direction Why Choose Campsite 360°? This is camping as it’s meant to be – simple, peaceful, and in harmony with the land. Our focus is on providing space and freedom, not crowded plots and strict schedules. You’re free to choose your spot, wander the land, and immerse yourself in the rhythms of the natural world. If you’re looking for an authentic wild camping experience with the convenience of a welcoming base, you’ve found it. Come with an open mind, leave with a full heart.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£20
 / night
68 Degrees West

3. 68 Degrees West

99%
(99)
99km from Ilfracombe · 10 units · Motorhomes, Glamping
Pod glamping and family camping on the edge of the Brecon Beacons, with a handy location near Brecon town and sunrises you'll never forget.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
from 
£30
 / night
Stowford Manor Farm Campsite

4. Stowford Manor Farm Campsite

87%
(39)
130km from Ilfracombe · 51 units · Glamping
We are a family run farm situated in the beautiful Frome valley. The farm has a range of interests from the traditional Jersey milking cows to a community of workshops used by local craftsmen. The cafe serves cream teas from Easter to the end of September and pizzas are sold in evenings during the summer months. Ours is a small family run camp site with the River Frome on one side, next to the medieval buildings of Stowford Farm. The river is suitable for fishing, boating, swimming and paddling. Historic Bradford-on-Avon is only a 5 minute drive and the City of Bath 15 minutes. For those who enjoy more rural pleasures, 200 metres from the campsite Farleigh Hungerford boasts the only river swimming club in the country, and you can become an instant member for a very small fee.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£110
 / night
Digeddi Wildlife Camping

5. Digeddi Wildlife Camping

97%
(129)
117km from Ilfracombe · 14 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Riverside camping and glamping with canoes for hire
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£15
 / night
Coverack Camping & Glamping

6. Coverack Camping & Glamping

99%
(200)
147km from Ilfracombe · 162 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Traditional family camping near Coverack, with the promise of coast, countryside and Cornish ice cream
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£12
 / night
Penylan Cider Farm

7. Penylan Cider Farm

96%
(24)
119km from Ilfracombe · 3 units · Motorhomes, Glamping
Pitches and tiny home glamping on a cider farm in Herefordshire
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£20
 / night
Little Eden Riverside Campsite

8. Little Eden Riverside Campsite

98%
(60)
87km from Ilfracombe · 27 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A very warm welcome to our guests at Little Eden, a restful and relaxing, riverside campsite for tents and campervans with grass pitches. We’re in a great spot if you love fishing, kayaking, gorge walking, cycling, seasides, fossil hunting, wild swimming, fell running, bird watching, archaeology or even Viking history! We are 9 miles from the mystical Glastonbury Abbey and Tor and directly on a Sustrans 33 cycle path route. The River Brue runs alongside the campsite with damsel flies fluttering by and kingfishers darting back and forth. We are on the Somerset levels so the sunsets are amazing as well as night time stargazing. We have a private, wooden jetty where you can launch your own paddle board. It’s a perfect get away for campers and nature lovers. Bring your own raised BBQs and logs or buy firewood on site. A family run campsite around 30 miles south of Bristol on the banks of the River Brue, it has a relaxed vibe and we try to keep things simple and straight forward. It’s ideal for doing some day trips nearby, then lighting the BBQ and playing Frisbee (games box you are most welcome to use). Shower and toilet, drinking water, washing-up sink in garden kitchenette. Our big sister site is just 4 miles away, and the café bar at 'Wall Eden Farm' serves fantastic coffee, cake, and family-made Somerset cider. If looking for classic countryside pub meal The Duck at Burtle and The Bird at Westhay are local favourites, be sure to book! Burnham on Sea close by has great fish and chips, a sandy beach, a pier and promenade if you like salty fingers and sandy toes. *DIRECTIONS* Little Eden Adventures is on Goole Maps Postcode takes you within 200 meters of campsite, look for white house with flagpole on stone bridge over river. What3words master.musical.titles. Our grandmother and her 5 sisters grew up milking cattle on the land. It’s steeped in history and archaeology. Bring your fishing rod as there are bream and roach in the River Brue. The site is a dream for cyclists. Electric vehicle charging at Wall Eden Farm with a Farmshop stocked with essential supplies, Moonshine and sweet treats. Sorry no pets as livestock in neighbouring fields. Big Adventures and Little Moments Warmest Wishes, Team Little Eden
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£15
 / night
Sweet Hill Farm

9. Sweet Hill Farm

94%
(296)
139km from Ilfracombe · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Simple, almost-wild, seaside camping on the Isle of Portland
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Rhosson Ganol

10. Rhosson Ganol

94%
(172)
111km from Ilfracombe · 46 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Wales' westernmost campsite, boasting stunning views overlooking Ramsey Sound on the Pembrokeshire Coast
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
from 
£14
 / night
Frome Meadow Campsite

11. Frome Meadow Campsite

93%
(167)
140km from Ilfracombe · 114 units · Tents
A magical riverside retreat near Dorset’s Jurassic Coast
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£14
 / night
Brig's Farm

12. Brig's Farm

97%
(157)
97km from Ilfracombe · 21 units · Tents, Glamping
Family camping with campfires near Charmouth, with sea views and a couple of quirky glamping lorries
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£13
 / night
Secret Spot Camping Saunton

13. Secret Spot Camping Saunton

99%
(140)
10km from Ilfracombe · 12 units · Tents
Finding this exclusive Devon spot is like making it on to the best VIP guest list in town
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£20
 / night
Benville Manor Camping

14. Benville Manor Camping

98%
(24)
110km from Ilfracombe · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes
We set up our campsite to be a unique place where guests could be as close to nature as possible, while retaining some of the basic comforts of home. Think wildflower meadow with hot showers! We've gone for ultimate peace and tranquility, with a very limited number of pitches mown into the wildflowers with lots of space between. Our remote site is far from roads or light pollution, making for serene starry nights around the firepit. The camping meadow is bordered by woodlands, a small nature reserve, and the gardens of a stunning Tudor manor house, all of which you're free to explore. Nestled in a remote and picturesque corner of West Dorset, the campsite is within easy reach of some of the South West's most stunning spots, from world-famous fossil beaches to neolithic hill-forts.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£13
 / night
Pentwyn Dingle and Lodge Field Camp

15. Pentwyn Dingle and Lodge Field Camp

97%
(55)
114km from Ilfracombe · 30 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Almost wild camping with good views, near the River Wye and Brecon Beacons
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£10
 / night
Pittaford Farm

16. Pittaford Farm

99%
(67)
104km from Ilfracombe · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
A campfire-friendly site in South Devon, with a beach, a nature reserve and a pub all less than 45 minutes' walk away
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£26
 / night
Elm Farm Camp, Cafe & Cycle hire

17. Elm Farm Camp, Cafe & Cycle hire

98%
(85)
129km from Ilfracombe · 26 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Quiet camping meadows and a friendly café located beside some of Cornwall's most popular cycling routes
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£15
 / night
Pwllyn Farm Camping

18. Pwllyn Farm Camping

100%
(219)
91km from Ilfracombe · 19 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A wild-feeling, adult-only campsite in the Brecon Beacons National Park, with impressive views of Pen y Fan
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£13
 / night
Camping in Nature at Vallis Veg

19. Camping in Nature at Vallis Veg

99%
(148)
124km from Ilfracombe · 15 units · Tents
Back-to-basics, natural camping with campfires encouraged and easy walks to the local attractions in Frome
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£20
 / night
Pure & Rustic

20. Pure & Rustic

86%
(7)
7.3km from Ilfracombe · 6 units · Glamping
Acres of beautiful woodlands & pastures for those that like to sleep under canvas with or without electric. Hot showers, Pure Greenfields spring water on tap, designated fire pits to bring out your rawness of nature!! Pure & Rustic is close by to some fantastic local pubs, and the beaches of Croyde, Saunton, Putsborough & Woolacombe. A magical woodland retreat to watch the moon & stars float by..!
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£15
 / night

This quaint harbour town on the North Devon coast is a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its dramatic coastline, remote surrounds, and excellent location within reach of some of the best surf in the UK and Exmoor National Park. Try surfing, get up close with England’s famous moorland ponies, or soak up the sights deep in the Devonshire countryside, with varied accommodation options suited to all manner of Hipcampers. From tent pitches beside beaches to luxury pods in national parks, here are our top picks for your Ilfracombe adventure.

You might be the type of camper who is happy to kick back on the campsite and make the most of campsite life while it lasts: soaking up the sun (fingers crossed), cooking on the campfire or barbecue, letting the kids run wild and enjoying the idyllic scenery of North Devon’s coast and countryside. But there’s also plenty of things to do in Ilfracombe and the surroundings during a holiday in the area. In the town of Ilfracombe itself you can watch the boats coming in and out of the harbour under the watchful eye of Verity, an enormous and controversial sculpture of a pregnant woman by Damian Hirst. Stay on dry land to explore harbour heritage on the Fish Trail, hop aboard a boat for a trip to see the wildlife at Lundy Island or find out about underwater life at the Ilfracombe Aquarium.

The Ilfracombe Museum reveals the history of the town and has an eclectic mix of curiosities from around the world too and no visit to Ilfracombe would be complete without visiting Tunnels Beaches and the Victorian tidal pool. For surfing, sandcastles and family swimming in shallow waters, head for Woolacombe Sands, Saunton Beach or Croyde—all under 10 miles away. Family-friendly attractions in the near area include Watermouth Castle, the Big Sheep Farm Park and Coombe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park.

95% (689) 802 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Ilfracombe

Glan Y Mor Camping

1. Glan Y Mor Camping

98%
(83)
77km from Ilfracombe · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
A super-friendly, family-run campsite on the edge of Pembroke
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£17
 / night
Campsite 360°

2. Campsite 360°

100%
(6)
118km from Ilfracombe · 24 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Campsite 360° – Wild Freedom in the Black Mountains Tucked away in the untamed beauty of the Black Mountains, Campsite 360° is a true off-grid retreat for those seeking peace, space, and adventure. With panoramic views stretching to the horizon, this wild, solar-powered haven offers a rare escape from the noise and rush of modern life. Wake to the sound of birdsong, breathe crisp mountain air, and watch the sun spill across rolling hills and valleys. Whether you pitch a tent under a starlit sky, park up your campervan in a secluded spot, or simply spend your days exploring, Campsite 360° is all about reconnecting with nature – and yourself. Our land is more than a campsite – it’s a living landscape. You’ll find open meadows, sheltered hollows, and vantage points perfect for soaking up 360-degree views. There are no bright city lights here, just a canopy of stars at night and the distant silhouette of mountains by day. We welcome solo travellers, couples, families, and small groups looking for a space to gather, celebrate, or simply unwind. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, the surrounding Black Mountains offer endless opportunities for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. If relaxation is your goal, pull up a chair, light a campfire, and let the world drift away. Facilities & Features: Spacious, unmarked pitches for tents and campervans Off-grid, solar-powered amenities Fresh air and no traffic noise – just nature Fire pits available (wood supplied on request) Pet-friendly – dogs welcome on leads Stunning views in every direction Why Choose Campsite 360°? This is camping as it’s meant to be – simple, peaceful, and in harmony with the land. Our focus is on providing space and freedom, not crowded plots and strict schedules. You’re free to choose your spot, wander the land, and immerse yourself in the rhythms of the natural world. If you’re looking for an authentic wild camping experience with the convenience of a welcoming base, you’ve found it. Come with an open mind, leave with a full heart.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£20
 / night
68 Degrees West

3. 68 Degrees West

99%
(99)
99km from Ilfracombe · 10 units · Motorhomes, Glamping
Pod glamping and family camping on the edge of the Brecon Beacons, with a handy location near Brecon town and sunrises you'll never forget.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
from 
£30
 / night
Stowford Manor Farm Campsite

4. Stowford Manor Farm Campsite

87%
(39)
130km from Ilfracombe · 51 units · Glamping
We are a family run farm situated in the beautiful Frome valley. The farm has a range of interests from the traditional Jersey milking cows to a community of workshops used by local craftsmen. The cafe serves cream teas from Easter to the end of September and pizzas are sold in evenings during the summer months. Ours is a small family run camp site with the River Frome on one side, next to the medieval buildings of Stowford Farm. The river is suitable for fishing, boating, swimming and paddling. Historic Bradford-on-Avon is only a 5 minute drive and the City of Bath 15 minutes. For those who enjoy more rural pleasures, 200 metres from the campsite Farleigh Hungerford boasts the only river swimming club in the country, and you can become an instant member for a very small fee.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£110
 / night
Digeddi Wildlife Camping

5. Digeddi Wildlife Camping

97%
(129)
117km from Ilfracombe · 14 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Riverside camping and glamping with canoes for hire
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£15
 / night
Coverack Camping & Glamping

6. Coverack Camping & Glamping

99%
(200)
147km from Ilfracombe · 162 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Traditional family camping near Coverack, with the promise of coast, countryside and Cornish ice cream
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£12
 / night
Penylan Cider Farm

7. Penylan Cider Farm

96%
(24)
119km from Ilfracombe · 3 units · Motorhomes, Glamping
Pitches and tiny home glamping on a cider farm in Herefordshire
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£20
 / night
Little Eden Riverside Campsite

8. Little Eden Riverside Campsite

98%
(60)
87km from Ilfracombe · 27 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A very warm welcome to our guests at Little Eden, a restful and relaxing, riverside campsite for tents and campervans with grass pitches. We’re in a great spot if you love fishing, kayaking, gorge walking, cycling, seasides, fossil hunting, wild swimming, fell running, bird watching, archaeology or even Viking history! We are 9 miles from the mystical Glastonbury Abbey and Tor and directly on a Sustrans 33 cycle path route. The River Brue runs alongside the campsite with damsel flies fluttering by and kingfishers darting back and forth. We are on the Somerset levels so the sunsets are amazing as well as night time stargazing. We have a private, wooden jetty where you can launch your own paddle board. It’s a perfect get away for campers and nature lovers. Bring your own raised BBQs and logs or buy firewood on site. A family run campsite around 30 miles south of Bristol on the banks of the River Brue, it has a relaxed vibe and we try to keep things simple and straight forward. It’s ideal for doing some day trips nearby, then lighting the BBQ and playing Frisbee (games box you are most welcome to use). Shower and toilet, drinking water, washing-up sink in garden kitchenette. Our big sister site is just 4 miles away, and the café bar at 'Wall Eden Farm' serves fantastic coffee, cake, and family-made Somerset cider. If looking for classic countryside pub meal The Duck at Burtle and The Bird at Westhay are local favourites, be sure to book! Burnham on Sea close by has great fish and chips, a sandy beach, a pier and promenade if you like salty fingers and sandy toes. *DIRECTIONS* Little Eden Adventures is on Goole Maps Postcode takes you within 200 meters of campsite, look for white house with flagpole on stone bridge over river. What3words master.musical.titles. Our grandmother and her 5 sisters grew up milking cattle on the land. It’s steeped in history and archaeology. Bring your fishing rod as there are bream and roach in the River Brue. The site is a dream for cyclists. Electric vehicle charging at Wall Eden Farm with a Farmshop stocked with essential supplies, Moonshine and sweet treats. Sorry no pets as livestock in neighbouring fields. Big Adventures and Little Moments Warmest Wishes, Team Little Eden
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£15
 / night
Sweet Hill Farm

9. Sweet Hill Farm

94%
(296)
139km from Ilfracombe · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Simple, almost-wild, seaside camping on the Isle of Portland
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Rhosson Ganol

10. Rhosson Ganol

94%
(172)
111km from Ilfracombe · 46 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Wales' westernmost campsite, boasting stunning views overlooking Ramsey Sound on the Pembrokeshire Coast
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
from 
£14
 / night
Frome Meadow Campsite

11. Frome Meadow Campsite

93%
(167)
140km from Ilfracombe · 114 units · Tents
A magical riverside retreat near Dorset’s Jurassic Coast
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£14
 / night
Brig's Farm

12. Brig's Farm

97%
(157)
97km from Ilfracombe · 21 units · Tents, Glamping
Family camping with campfires near Charmouth, with sea views and a couple of quirky glamping lorries
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£13
 / night
Secret Spot Camping Saunton

13. Secret Spot Camping Saunton

99%
(140)
10km from Ilfracombe · 12 units · Tents
Finding this exclusive Devon spot is like making it on to the best VIP guest list in town
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£20
 / night
Benville Manor Camping

14. Benville Manor Camping

98%
(24)
110km from Ilfracombe · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes
We set up our campsite to be a unique place where guests could be as close to nature as possible, while retaining some of the basic comforts of home. Think wildflower meadow with hot showers! We've gone for ultimate peace and tranquility, with a very limited number of pitches mown into the wildflowers with lots of space between. Our remote site is far from roads or light pollution, making for serene starry nights around the firepit. The camping meadow is bordered by woodlands, a small nature reserve, and the gardens of a stunning Tudor manor house, all of which you're free to explore. Nestled in a remote and picturesque corner of West Dorset, the campsite is within easy reach of some of the South West's most stunning spots, from world-famous fossil beaches to neolithic hill-forts.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£13
 / night
Pentwyn Dingle and Lodge Field Camp

15. Pentwyn Dingle and Lodge Field Camp

97%
(55)
114km from Ilfracombe · 30 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Almost wild camping with good views, near the River Wye and Brecon Beacons
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£10
 / night
Pittaford Farm

16. Pittaford Farm

99%
(67)
104km from Ilfracombe · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
A campfire-friendly site in South Devon, with a beach, a nature reserve and a pub all less than 45 minutes' walk away
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£26
 / night
Elm Farm Camp, Cafe & Cycle hire

17. Elm Farm Camp, Cafe & Cycle hire

98%
(85)
129km from Ilfracombe · 26 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Quiet camping meadows and a friendly café located beside some of Cornwall's most popular cycling routes
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£15
 / night
Pwllyn Farm Camping

18. Pwllyn Farm Camping

100%
(219)
91km from Ilfracombe · 19 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A wild-feeling, adult-only campsite in the Brecon Beacons National Park, with impressive views of Pen y Fan
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£13
 / night
Camping in Nature at Vallis Veg

19. Camping in Nature at Vallis Veg

99%
(148)
124km from Ilfracombe · 15 units · Tents
Back-to-basics, natural camping with campfires encouraged and easy walks to the local attractions in Frome
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£20
 / night
Pure & Rustic

20. Pure & Rustic

86%
(7)
7.3km from Ilfracombe · 6 units · Glamping
Acres of beautiful woodlands & pastures for those that like to sleep under canvas with or without electric. Hot showers, Pure Greenfields spring water on tap, designated fire pits to bring out your rawness of nature!! Pure & Rustic is close by to some fantastic local pubs, and the beaches of Croyde, Saunton, Putsborough & Woolacombe. A magical woodland retreat to watch the moon & stars float by..!
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£15
 / night

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The best farm stays near Ilfracombe guide

Where to go

Around Ilfracombe and the North Devon Coast

There’s no need to travel far outside of Ilfracombe in search of camping options. In fact, luxury retreats, holiday parks, glamping huts, and no-frills campsites can be found all along this stretch, plus farm sites a little way inland. Along the coast, surfing spots such as Croyde Bay boast several beach-accessible sites.

Exmoor National Park

Just east of Ilfracombe, this vast open moorland attracts wildlife lovers with its famous ponies and red deer. A haven for hikers, horse riders, and mountain bikers, as well as sea and river canoeists, there are plenty of options for overnight stays, including farmland camps, luxury yurts, and caravan parks.

Dartmoor National Park

About 45 miles (70 kilometres) south of Ilfracombe, this iconic landscape is home to its own resident ponies, plus unique boglands and tors. Climbing is particularly popular here, as is walking and wild camping—though rules are very strict, so private campsites and caravan parks can be a safer bet.

Blackdown Hills and the East Devon AONBs

Under two hours’ drive southeast of Ilfracombe, these adjoining AONBs provide a glimpse of England’s rural heritage. Woodlands, upland plateaus, ridges, and valleys provide all sorts of outdoor opportunity, while the East Devon Way delivers ramblers directly to the Dorset-Devon coast. Traditional farm camps and trendy glampsites abound in the area.

When to go

Summer is particularly popular on the Devon coast, but the region is generally less busy than its sister-seaside resorts. If you’re hoping to catch a wave or two, early autumn’s your best bet.

Know before you go

  • Ilfracombe isn’t the most easily accessed from London, requiring two trains and a bus, changing at Exeter St Davids.
  • If you plan to explore North Devon’s more secluded spots, it’s worth bringing or hiring your own vehicle.
  • Camping supplies can be picked up in nearby Barnstaple.
  • Most campsites prefer advanced booking, though some allow walk-ins in a pinch.