Explore.
You won’t be bored! There is so much to see and do from our dog friendly accommodation in Woolacombe, North Devon.
One of the best things about staying at No.9 Putsborough is how much you can do without travelling very far. Woolacombe Beach is four minutes from the door, Barricane and Combesgate are within walking distance and the South West Coast Path is right on your doorstep.
Head out a little further and there’s plenty more of North Devon to discover — from surfing and family days out to beautiful beaches, coastal villages and some brilliant walks with the dog. We’ve gathered together some of our favourite ideas below to help you decide where to start.
“What a beautiful place! Great location for dog walks along the coastal paths and close to the beach.”
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 Woolacombe Beach just four minutes from the door. Spend the day surfing, swimming or building sandcastles, take the dog for a long walk along the beach, or simply stay until the sun goes down.
A short walk away, Barricane Beach is worth seeking out for its shells, rock pools and famous Sri Lankan curries in the summer, while neighbouring Combesgate is another little cove that’s particularly good for rock pooling at low tide.
And if you fancy a different beach for the day, you’re spoilt for choice. Head to Croyde for its famous surf, Saunton Sands for miles of sand backed by Braunton Burrows, or discover the much smaller Lee Bay tucked away along the North Devon coast.
- How far?Most within an easy stroll
- When can I go?All year round
Surf’s Up
Woolacombe is one of North Devon’s best-known surfing beaches, whether you’re trying it for the first time or already know your way around a surfboard. Its long beach means there’s plenty of space to get out on the water.
If you fancy giving it a go, Surfing Woolacombe, is the only surf school located directly on Woolacombe Beach, with lessons for beginners through to more experienced surfers. Prefer to head out on your own? You can hire surfboards, bodyboards and wetsuits from them too.
- How far?A short walk
- When can I go?Seasonal - March to October
Paddle Power
Kayaking and SUP in North Devon is a brilliant way to see a different side of the coast, exploring coves, sea caves and beaches that are difficult to reach on foot.
Head to OSKC Watersports in Combe Martin for kayak and stand up paddleboard hire, or join a guided tour to glide past sea caves, sheltered bays and peaceful beaches with expert local guides. It’s great fun for first-timers and confident paddlers alike, with seals, seabirds and the occasional dolphin often popping up along the way.
- How far?Approx. 25 minutes by car
- When can I go?Seasonal opening times
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
Cycle Trails
Explore North Devon on two wheels. From easy family rides along the traffic-free Tarka Trail to more challenging coastal routes around Woolacombe, there are plenty of options for getting out on a bike. Bike hire and cafés are dotted along the trail—perfect for a mid-ride coffee stop.
- How far?15 minutes to Braunton to hire a bike to join the Tarka Trail.
- When can I go?February-October
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
Glorious Gardens
North Devon has some beautiful gardens to visit when you fancy a day away from the beach. RHS Garden Rosemoor is the big one, while Tapeley Park has wonderful views across the Torridge estuary and Marwood Hill Gardens is much closer to Woolacombe, with its lakes and extensive gardens. Three very different options and all easy day trips from No.9 Putsborough.
- How far?A short drive
- When can I go?Seasonal
Historic Houses in North Devon
Explore historic houses in North Devon, all within easy reach of Woolacombe. From National Trust properties near Woolacombe to the dramatic coastal setting of Hartland Abbey, these elegant estates offer beautiful interiors, sweeping parkland and centuries of Devon history. Perfect for seasonal walks and a glimpse into the county’s rich past.
- How far?A short drive
- When can I go?Seasonal
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 a little different, whatever 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
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 and spend the day exploring one of North Devon’s most unusual places.
- How far?10 minutes’ drive to Ilfracombe
- When can I go?April-October
Adventure Awaits
If you’re looking for fun days out in North Devon, there are plenty of options within reach of No.9 Putsborough. Try wakeboarding or the inflatable aqua park at North Devon Wake Park, spend the day exploring Watermouth Castle, meet the animals and dinosaurs at Combe Martin Wildlife & Dinosaur Park, or head to The Milky Way Adventure Park for rides, play areas and plenty to do whatever the weather.
They’re all good options for a family day out from Woolacombe — and particularly useful to have up your sleeve when everyone fancies a change from the beach.
- How far?A short drive
- When can I go?Mostly seasonal, March – November
Exmoor Zoo
Exmoor Zoo North Devon is home to 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 Exmoor with Moor Wild Experiences. Enjoy stone-baked pizza, hot chocolate and toasted marshmallows over the firepit at their 16th-century barn — a lovely evening out from No.9 Putsborough.
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
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 offers the chance to swap the studio for the sand, with yoga and pilates sessions held right on the beach. Stretch, breathe and enjoy the sound of the sea — just try not to be lulled to sleep during savasana…
- How far?A short walk
- When can I go?Seasonal
Tunnels Beaches
Tunnels Beaches Ilfracombe takes you through hand-carved rock tunnels to reach its sheltered beaches and Victorian tidal bathing pool. It’s a fascinating bit of local history as well as a fun place for families to explore the rocks and marine life.
- How far?10 minutes’ drive
- When can I go?April-October
Neo Cinema
The Neo Cinema Woolacombe offers a retro-style cinema experience that’s a little 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