Eat.
It’s a surfer’s paradise, but North Devon is also a haven for foodies.
That might mean cooking up a storm in our well-equipped kitchen or, for those looking for a break from the kitchen, there are heaps of lovely cafes, pubs and restaurants nearby. There are also independent delis in Braunton and Ilfracombe and the fabulous Lee Meadow Farm Shop all of which offer a wide array of local produce, heavenly baked sourdough and fresher than fresh fruit and vegetables.
Restaurants
Miss Fea’s Bistro
A contemporary bistro in the rather lovely hilltop village of Mortehoe. Their imaginative menu with fresh locally sourced produce is backed up with an excellent wine (and cocktail) list. Service is also spot on!
- How far?5 minutes' drive
- When can I go?Pretty much all year round
The Beach House
Just a few metres from No.9 which makes us very happy. Food is locally sourced with the best seafood around.
- How far?A tiny walk
- When can I go?March-October
The Lime Kiln Cafe & Bar
This place wins the view award. Standing on the edge of the water overlooking Damien Hirst’s 66ft tall statue ‘Verity’ it has a large panoramic terrace and a great menu served in a stylish setting. After sunset, cocktails and live music take over.
- How far?15 minutes' drive
- When can I go?All year round
The Boathouse, Instow
We love this beach bar and restaurant. Its dog friendly, child friendly and all-round super friendly. Enjoy the stunning views over the sands of Instow and out onto the Atlantic from its ‘Top Deck’ terrace.
- How far?40 minutes’ drive
- When can I go?All year round
New Coast Kitchen, Croyde
This excellent little place is all about dishes to delight the senses. Enjoy its great vibe and style.
- How far?20 minutes’ drive
- When can I go?All year round
Street Food
Inspired by culinary travels around the world, North Devon has an array of street food to offer and the Devon Street Food Festival is hosted annually in Ilfracombe, just 10 minutes’ drive.
The Beach Café Downend
Where Sri Lanka meets the surf crew. Great spot, great vibe, great view this café serves up legendary Sri Lankan curries from Thursday-Sunday to rival those of Barricane Beach.
- How far?20 minutes' drive
- When can I go?Pretty much all year round - weather permitting
Seadog
Head over to Seadog foods’ pop up stall at The Chichester Arms for colourful take out that promises worldly wonder, local sourcing, zero blandness and seasonal freshness.
- How far?5 minutes' drive
- When can I go?July-September (Mondays & Tuesdays)
The Glorious Oyster
This seriously cute street food and oyster shack is nestled behind the dunes at Instow and uses the freshest local ingredients. Enjoy your treats overlooking the estuary with views to Appledore.
- How far?20 minutes’ drive
- When can I go?April-October
Biffen’s Kitchen
For surf inspired street food this is your place at Ocean Pitch campsite in Croyde.
- How far?15 minutes' drive
- When can I go?April-September
Barricane Beach Café
The stuff of legend with stunning Sri Lankan curries on the beach –take cash, a blanket and a bottle of wine or craft beer. Watch the sunset for a chilled beach experience.
- How far?A short walk
- When can I go? April-September
Pubs & Bars
The Grampus Inn
In the oh so lovely village of Lee Bay, this gorgeous low beamed pub serves tasty homecooked food and brews its own ale and small batch gin on site.
- How far?10 minutes' drive
- When can I go?All year round
The Farmers Arms
Think 16th century pub chic, it’s a real crowd pleaser! The interiors ooze good taste and the fabulous Sunday sharing roasts are top notch and excellent value for money.
- How far?55 minutes' drive
- When can I go?Open all year round
Bar Electric
This laid back café restaurant bar wins the view award with its sun terrace having fantastic views over Woolacombe beach. Highlights include the Lebanese mezze salad and homemade rich chocolate brownie with salted caramel gelato.
- How far?A tiny walk
- When can I go?Pretty much all year round
The Pyne Arms
Voted one of the top 50 gastro pubs, The Pyne Arms is worth a visit for its Tempura Coconut King Prawns alone. With a menu which changes weekly, you can expect locally sourced food with a modern twist with everything from a Sunday roast to speciality fish. We hope you’re hungry!
- How far?20 minute drive
- When can I go?Open all year around
The King’s Arms
Tried and tested, this pub is a little bit special, supremely welcoming and perfectly cosy during chillier months by the log fire. Their pie of the day and vegan curry win our votes.
- How far?20 minute drive
- When can I go?Open all year round
The Rock Inn
Close to Woolacombe is the picture perfect village of Georgeham. Perfect for Sunday roasts with 5 options available, their wine lists are good and real ale fans will find a good selection of local brews.
- How far?20 minute drive
- When can I go?Open all year round
The Jube
Loved by surfers, locals and visitors alike this pub epitomes laid back beach style.
- How far?A short walk
- When can I go?Open all year round
Cafes
Meraki Coffee Co
A hidden gem. The menu stars breakfasts like their homemade nutty granola and the best coffee around. They also host pop up events such as Mexican food nights.
- How far?A short walk
- When can I go?Open all year round
The Porthole
Overlooking the dunes above Woolacombe beach. Local seasonal ingredients and panoramic sunset views. Their kimchi sausage rolls and vegan feast boxes are superb!
- How far?A medium walk
- When can I go?Open all year round
Heartbreak Hotel Coffee
Cute café in Braunton serving coffee and the most divine doughnuts. Totally swoon-worthy!
- How far?A medium drive (20 minutes)
- When can I go?Pretty much all year round
Stacc Bakes
An incredible patisserie and coffee shop in the pretty harbour town of Ilfracombe. Every cake is a work of art and baked in house e’ry day!
- How far?A short drive (10 minutes)
- When can I go?All year round
Town Farmhouse
Town Farmhouse is a beautiful 19th century tea room in the lovely village of Mortehoe. Their gardens overlook the village church and they serve light lunches and amazing Devon cream teas, perfect for a treat post walk around Morte Point. Dogs are welcome too!
- How far?5 minutes’ drive
- When can I go?All year round
Takeaways
Baked on the Beach
The coolest spot to pick up a post surf coffee. This airstream trailer serves pastries, coffees and snacks on Woolacombe beach during the summer months.
- How far?10 minutes' walk
- When can I go?May-September
Stoned
For delicious wood fired pizza indulgence there’s no place better.
- How far?A short walk
- When can I go?April-October
Woolacombe Fryer
The best days end with fish and chips on the beach!
- How far?A short walk
- When can I go?February-October
Keswick House Ilfracombe
Claire prepares the most divine Mediterranean graze boxes to order and caters for special occasions and dietary requirements. Vacation yumminess!
- How far?A short drive
- When can I go?All year round
Ice Creams
Snack Shack
The perfect pitstop for children serving ice creams and snacks
- How far?A short walk
- When can I go?March-December
Hockings Ice Cream Van
A crowd pleaser with local North Devon ice cream served from a vintage van.
- How far?Various locations – Appledore, Bideford, Ilfracombe, Instow and Westward Ho!
- When can I go?March-October