Explore.

Surf’s Up

A surfing lesson or learn to SUP is a must here with Woolacombe Surf Centre or Nick Thorn Surf Coaching on the doorstep for lessons and a discount of 10% or 15% for all guests at No.9.

• How far?A short walk
• When can I go?All year round

Cycle Trails

Cycling is a brilliant family activity; kids can let off steam while you admire the Devon scenery. There is the Tarka Trail, a former railway line, with cafes en route for that all important coffee and cake; alternatively cycle the coastal routes and enjoy the stunning scenery.

• How far?Hire e-bikes from Tor Moor & Sea and have them delivered to No.9! or 15 minutes drive to hire a bike to join the Tarka Trail
• When can I go?Pretty much all year round

Sea Safaris and Lundy Island

Get acquainted with North Devon’s marine life of dolphins, porpoises, seals and a whole array of bird life with a sea safari.  Take the safari to Lundy Island and seek out the puffins from April-July.

• How far?10 minutes’ drive to Ilfracombe
• When can I go?April-October

Tunnels Beaches

Walk through hand carved rock tunnels to discover rock pools teeming with marine life, a Victorian tidal pool surrounded by magical coves of mystery and wonder.  A hidden gem.

• How far?10 minutes’ drive
• When can I go?April-October

Horse Riding

Woolacombe Riding Stables offer a range of riding lessons and gentle hacks for all abilities as well as beach rides for the more experienced rider.

• How far?5 minutes’ drive
• When can I go?All year round

Beach Yoga

Skip a few minutes across the sand and stretch stretch skywards in a morning beach yoga or beach pilates session to the soothing sound of the waves lapping at the shore. Just try not to be lulled to sleep during savasana….

• How far?A short walk
• When can I go?Spring and summer (weather permitting)

Neo Cinema

This retro style cinema offers something a little bit more special than your average cinema.  Sink into a cosy armchair or sofa and tuck into traditional cinema snacks or for the adults indulge in a cocktail.

• How far?A short walk
• When can I go?Pretty much all year round

Exmoor Zoo

Home of the Exmoor beast, the only black leopard in the UK. The myth is alive now as it as it was in mediaeval times – make up your mind for yourself by visiting the zoo.

• How far?A medium drive (25 minutes)
• When can I go?All year round

Exmoor Dark Sky Reserve

Starry, starry nights. Moor Wild Experiences run magical stargazing evenings on the wilds of Exmoor (a designated dark sky reserve) and followed by stone baked pizza, hot chocolate & marshmallows toasted over the firepit at their 16th century barn. Bliss.

Photo of the Milky Way taken on Exmoor by Keith Trueman

• How far?A medium drive (25 minutes)
• When can I go?All year round

Art & Culture

North Devon has an array of art and cultural opportunities from the Burton at Bideford Art Gallery to Damien Hirst’s 66 foot bronze  statue ‘Verity’ in Ilfracombe Harbour.

• How far?A short drive
• When can I go?All year round

Golf

No. 9 is the perfect place to stay for golf breaks in North Devon with the two best championship links courses in the country at Saunton Golf Club nearby.  There is also the North Devon Royal Golf Club at Westward Ho!, Mortehoe & Woolacombe golf club and Ilfracombe golf club with its spectacular scenery for an exhilarating round.

• How far?A short drive
• When can I go?All year round

Walks & Hiking

No.9 is an ideal base for a walking holiday with the South West coastal path on its doorstep with its dramatic coastal hikes.    The Exmoor National Park is also a short drive with over 265 square miles of coastal land, hills, moors, woods and cascading waterfalls which provide excellent hiking opportunities.

• How far?On your doorstep
• When can I go?All year round

Picturesque Villages

Visit some of Devon and Exmoor’s prettiest villages, Lynton & Lynmouth, Clovelly and Dunster.

• How far?A drive
• When can I go?All year round

Gardens and Historic Houses

Explore North Devon’s wonderful array of must-see sources of green-fingered inspiration and historic houses.  They are great for picnicking and all have onsite cafes too!

• How far?A short drive
• When can I go?Pretty much all year round