What to do in and around Woolacombe, Devon in Autumn

Summer may be coming to a close but Autumn in Woolacombe and North Devon has its own magic.  Take inspiration from some of our favourite things to do…

Embrace life by the sea

Quieter beaches, glowing sunsets and as Andrew Cotton, one of the most respected big wave surfers, says ‘ September is a lovely month… The summer crowds have gone, sea temperatures are at their highest, there’s still good air temperatures and the winter Atlantic swells starts.  Get suited and booted and hire your wetsuit and board from Nick Thorn  or book a lesson for any ability from Woolacombe Surf Centre.

Want to enjoy the ocean but don’t fancy surfing?  Take a guided kayak tour with OSKC Watersports and explore the hidden nooks and crannies of the waters around Lee Bay or Combe Martin. 

Soak up the scenery

Being situated footsteps from the South West Coast Path, there is no shortage of walking routes from your holiday front door when staying at No. 9 Putsborough.  There is nothing quite like seeing the sun illuminate the sweeping sands of Woolacombe beach with the backdrop of the rolling hills on a warm autumnal day.  Dog restrictions have been lifted on the beaches at Woolacombe too so it’s the perfect time for walkies followed by coffee and cake at The Porthole Woolacombe.  Paw-some!

We’ve included walking maps and a couple of hiking poles at No. 9 Putsborough, ideal for those who plan to walk for hours and some suited to families or individuals who might prefer a shorter stroll! Whatever you fancy, grab your walking boots, download OS Maps on your phone and check out some of the stunning local National Trust walks at Potters Hill, Morte Point and Baggy Point.

Enjoy a pub garden

The perfect reward after a walk… There are plenty of fantastic pubs in and around Woolacombe.  For those warm autumnal days The Grampus Inn in the charming village of Lee has a gorgeous outdoor space for enjoying a craft ale and ploughmans. If the weather has cooled a little for your stay though, don’t panic.  There’s nothing better than hunkering down by the log fire at The Muddiford Inn tucking into a Sunday roast followed by a platter of their heavenly mini desserts.  Bliss!

Step back in time in Clovelly

Clovelly is a charming 16th century fishing village in Devon that appears as though it’s been frozen in time. Clinging to a 400 foot cliff its steeply cobbled, flower-strewn cottages tumble down the hill to the quay & working harbour. No vehicles are able to drive into the village, instead sledges are used to transport goods. 

Grab an ice cream and wander through the old-worldly streets of Clovelly, discover the secret waterfall, visit the lovely craft shops and meet the Clovelly donkeys.  Visit during September for Clovelly’s annual Lobster and Crab Feast, in October it’s ‘Apple Day’ and the Clovelly Herring Festival always falls in November for the finest Devon seafood. Clovelly is a must see when staying at No. 9 Putsborough during the autumn. 

Everybody’s starry eyed

North Devon has long been one of the most notable stargazing destinations in the UK and nearby Exmoor was designated as Europe’s first International Dark Skies Reserve with low levels of light pollution, cloudless nights and elevated positions.  Autumn proves to be the perfect time for stargazing when the night is clear enough. 

Exmoor’s Dark Skies Festival runs from 18th October-3rd November 2024 with over 50 family friendly events including the fabulous stargazing & wood fired pizza nights from Moor Wild Experiences.  All telescopes are child and adult friendly ensuring that everyone will leave with great memories!

Book your autumnal escape at No9 Putsborough.  

Discover No. 9 Putsborough

A boutique sea view holiday apartment that sleeps 4 in Woolacombe, Devon.

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