Croyde Bay
5 October 2026
Devon's answer to Fistral Beach in Cornwall, Croyde Bay is one of the best known surf spots in the country. It draws a young and sporty crowd, and when the surf's up, there's a real buzz on this beach.
A few years ago, the Classic Cottages team started writing about where we live and why we love it. Over time these have evolved into the Classic Guide.
5 October 2026
Devon's answer to Fistral Beach in Cornwall, Croyde Bay is one of the best known surf spots in the country. It draws a young and sporty crowd, and when the surf's up, there's a real buzz on this beach.
13 September 2026
Beaches don't come any bigger than this – Woolacombe's sands stretch beyond the horizon in a perfect yellow arc. Surfing is the main activity here and this bay is a great place to learn, with consistent swell and a gently shelving beach. The town has a classic seaside feel, with ice cream parlours, surf shops and cafes serving fresh local seafood. There's an unhurried pace of life here that just begs you to unwind.
13 September 2026
Designated as a Site of Specific Scientific Interest, Barricane Bay is a pretty little sandy bay surrounded by stunning rocky outcrops. Tucked away about half a mile away from Woolacombe beach, Barricane is popular with surfers and perfect for rock pooling. The beach disappears at high tide, forming a large natural pool.
24 August 2026
A 17th century village pub offering freshly cooked food served in either the fireside bar or conservatory. Food is sourced locally including pork from rare breed Engish pigs and free range chickens who provide eggs for both the kitchen and for guests to buy.
22 February 2026
Found in the heart of Woolacombe, The Jube is a vibrant pub, recently renovated and traditionally furnished with exposed brickwork and old timbers. Call in for locally sourced food, a great selection of wines and beers and for al fresco dining in the courtyard.
15 September 2025
Centrally located in the heart of the village of Braunton, this traditional pub offers hearty meals and Open Cask Ales. Child and dog friendly, there is outside seating available.
7 July 2025
Situated on the quayside, this tradtional bar and restaurant enjoys lovely views over the Torridge estuary. Sit outside on summer days and dine al fresco, or snuggle up in front of the cosy open fires in winter. Dogs are welcome.
19 October 2024
With stunning estuary views, this waterside pub/restaurant offers a seasonally changing menu using the best local ingredients. Open for breakfast (book in advance), lunch, dinner and all day for drinks, this is the perfect spot for dining out. Children are welcome, as are dogs on the ground floor.
5 October 2024
Two miles of sand stretching into the distance backed by a pebble ridge which divides the beach from Northam Burrows Country Park, a magnificent stretch of salt marsh, grassland and dunes.
13 May 2024
Classic pub food created with excellent ingredients and served with real attention to detail.