Treehouses near Ilfracombe with hot tub

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.

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.

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.

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.