Explore.
Things to do in Woolacombe come effortlessly with beach life on your doorstep – from sunrise walks along golden sands to coast path adventures and lazy afternoons at hidden beach cafés tucked behind the dunes. With so much to explore across the North Devon coast, you’ll be spoilt for choice during your stay at No.9 Putsborough.
Here is a small selection of ideas for your stay:
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Beaches
Things to do in Woolacombe start right outside No.9 Putsborough, with the award-winning Woolacombe Beach just minutes away. Perfect for family days, dog friendly walks and breathtaking sunsets, this stretch of the North Devon coast is a playground for all ages.
A short stroll away, Barricane Beach charms with its seashells and famous Sri Lankan curries at dusk, while Combesgate Beach offers a quieter spot for rock pooling adventures.
Further along the coast, North Devon reveals even more gems – the surf haven of Croyde Bay, the vast dunes and dog-friendly shoreline of Saunton Sands, and the peaceful beauty of Lee Bay – all waiting to be explored on your stay.
- How far?Most within an easy stroll
- When can I go?All year round
Surf’s Up
Surfing in Woolacombe is one of the best places to experience the thrill of surfing on the North Devon coast. Whether you’re a total beginner or chasing the next set, the beach offers long rolling waves and wide sandy shores – perfect for all abilities.
If you’re new to surfing, join a session with the award-winning Woolacombe Surf Centre or Nick Thorn Surf Coaching at Putsborough. Prefer to go solo? Simply hire a board and wetsuit and wander down to the beach — those saltwater days are waiting.
Guests of No.9 Putsborough receive exclusive discounts on surf lessons and equipment hire.
- How far?A short walk
- When can I go?All year round
Cycle Trails
Explore North Devon on two wheels. From relaxed family rides along the famous Tarka Trail to breathtaking coastal routes overlooking the sea, cycling in Woolacombe is a great way to soak up rugged scenery and fresh sea air. Bike hire and cafés are dotted along the trail—perfect for a mid-ride coffee stop.
- How far?Hire e-bikes from Tor Moor & Sea and have them delivered to No.9 Putsborough! Alternatively drive 15 minutes to Braunton to hire a bike to join the Tarka Trail.
- When can I go?Pretty much all year round
Lundy Island
Lundy Island North Devon lies just 10 miles off the coast, where the Atlantic meets the Bristol Channel. This peaceful island is home to puffins and seals from April to September. Hop on the MS Oldenburg for a scenic boat trip — an unforgettable way to explore North Devon’s coastal beauty and an adventure in its own right.
- How far?10 minutes’ drive to Ilfracombe
- When can I go?April-October
Tunnels Beaches
Tunnels Beaches Ilfracombe invites you to wander through hand-carved rock tunnels to discover Victorian tidal pools full of marine life. Surrounded by enchanting coves, this hidden gem is perfect for family-friendly coastal adventures.
- How far?10 minutes’ drive
- When can I go?April-October
Horse Riding
Horse riding Woolacombe at its Riding Stables offers something for everyone — from lessons for beginners to gentle hacks through the countryside, and exhilarating beach rides for more experienced riders. A memorable activity for families and riders of all levels.
- How far?5 minutes’ drive
- When can I go?All year round
Beach Yoga
Beach yoga Woolacombe invites you to stretch skywards on golden sands, with the sound of waves lapping nearby. Morning yoga or pilates sessions offer calm, coastal energy to the soothing sound of the waves lapping at the shore — and a perfect start to your North Devon day. 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
The Neo Cinema Woolacombe offers a retro style cinema experience 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 for a relaxed night out on the North Devon coast.
- How far?A short walk
- When can I go?Pretty much all year round
Exmoor Zoo
Exmoor Zoo North Devon is home of the only black leopard in the UK and a wide range of exotic animals. Just a short drive from No.9 Putsborough, it’s a fun and memorable experience for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike. The myth of the Exmoor Beast 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
The Exmoor Dark Sky Reserve offers unforgettable stargazing nights on the wilds of Exmoor with Moor Wild Experiences. Enjoy stone-baked pizza, hot chocolate and toasted marshmallows over the firepit at their 16th-century barn — just a short drive from No.9 Putsborough. 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
Art & Culture North Devon offers a rich mix of galleries, sculptures and festivals. From the Burton Art Gallery in Bideford to Damien Hirst’s 66 foot bronze statue, Verity, in Ilfracombe Harbour and the renowned Appledore Book Festival, there’s something to inspire every visitor — just a short drive from No.9 Putsborough.
- How far?A short drive
- When can I go?All year round
Golf
Enjoy North Devon golf breaks at the country’s top championship courses, including Saunton Golf Club and North Devon Royal Golf Club. Closer to the coast, Mortehoe & Woolacombe Golf Club and Ilfracombe Golf Club offer stunning scenery for an exhilarating round.
For something more cool, regardless of the weather, The Combes Golf Park features foot golf, disc golf, and a Toptracer driving range — fun for families, beginners, or serious golfers alike, all just a short distance from No.9 Putsborough.
- How far?A short drive
- When can I go?All year round
Walks & Hiking
Stay at No.9 Putsborough for unforgettable North Devon coastal walks along the South West Coast Path, with dramatic cliffside scenery on your doorstep. For more extensive adventures, Exmoor National Park is just a short drive away, offering over 265 square miles of moors, hills, woods and cascading waterfalls — perfect for walking holidays or day hikes.
- How far?On your doorstep
- When can I go?All year round
Picturesque Villages
Spend a day exploring North Devon picturesque villages, each with its own charm and character. Wander the cobbled streets of our favourite, Clovelly, enjoy the harbourside views in Appledore and Instow or take in the dramatic scenery of Lynton & Lynmouth. Dunster’s medieval streets and castle make for an enchanting stop, all within easy reach from No.9 Putsborough.
- How far?A drive
- When can I go?All year round
Gardens and Historic Houses
Spend a day enjoying North Devon gardens & historic houses, each offering a mix of lush greenery and fascinating heritage. Perfect for picnics, gentle strolls or a quiet coffee at one of the charming on-site cafés, these spots are just a short drive from No.9 Putsborough. A must-see sources of green-fingered inspiration!
- How far?A short drive
- When can I go?Pretty much all year round