Best Picnic Spots in North Devon

Summer days are approaching, the sun stays awake longer, and the grass is looking a little greener. Every British person loves a few picky bits on a picnic blanket you’ve owned for years. If you’re looking for the best picnic spots in North Devon, then look no further. North Devon is the perfect place for summer picnics, whether you want pizza and snacks on the beach or a charcuterie board by a lake.

The picnic spots will be sorted by area so you can choose where you want to go or find the perfect picnic spot near your accommodation if you plan to stay in one of our stunning North Devon cottages this summer.

Ilfracombe Picnic Spots

Ilfracombe is one of the best tourist spots in North Devon; people love to visit Ilfracombe for its architectural beauty and the mix of attractions it offers, from parks to theatre to the beach. This also makes it a great destination for picnics.

Bicclescombe Park

This is a great park with a pretty walk surrounding the actual play area. Full of trees, flowers, running water and often ducks. Bicclescombe Park is a perfect choice if you want a mix of everything.

Green Area Near Capstone Hill

Just past the famous landmarks and by Capstone Hill, there is a wide green area that would be perfect for a picnic. Keep in mind this will be a high-traffic area as it is right in the middle of Ilfracombe and opposite a few cafes. But it is still a pretty area and very accessible for anyone to enjoy a picnic in Ilfracombe, then head for a wander. Before you head out, it’s worth picking up supplies from one of the best bakeries in North Devon — there are some great options in Ilfracombe itself.

Westward Ho! Picnic Spots

A quick note about Westward Ho! is that we recommend not having a picnic on the grassy area near the car park behind the Pebble Ridge, as wild animals are often on this grass, making it not hygienic for a picnic spot.

The Beach

The beach is a great spot to have a picnic in Westward Ho! if you enjoy being near the ocean and love the sand over grass. This is another spot that can get very busy during summer, but due to its size, you’ll be able to find a spot to set up. Maybe head down during early evening for that cool summer breeze and a quieter environment. If you’re bringing the dog along, take a look at our guide to dog-friendly beaches in North Devon for everything you need to know.

The Green

By the main Westward Ho! bus stop (where there is often an ice cream van) is a small green area that is popular with locals and holidaymakers alike. There is also a small convenience shop right next to the spot, meaning you can buy your picky food once you get to Westward Ho!

Bring your picnic blanket and some good company, or go solo and read a book with the sound of crashing waves and summer sun on you.

Barnstaple Picnic Spots

Most people only think of Barnstaple’s town centre when they hear the name, but the areas just around the edge of Barnstaple are where the beauty lies. There are so many more pretty picnic spots, these are just our top two recommendations. There are more places such as Heddon’s Mouth, Eggesford Forest (technically Mid-Devon but only a 36 min drive from Barnstaple) and more.

Manning’s Pit

One of the best picnic spots overall in North Devon given its beautiful location, and it isn’t far from Barnstaple. A lovely field with a small lake. If you are looking for an open grass area perfect for pitching up a picnic, then Manning’s Pit is your best choice.

The grass area is relatively flat, which makes it very accessible to everybody. During the warmer months, you may find cows sharing the field with you, so keep that in mind if you’re bringing dogs. It can also get quite busy at this time of year, though this is mainly with dog walkers rather than people setting up picnics.

Rock Park

Rock Park is surrounded by a large grass area and situated in the town centre, with lovely views of the River Taw. It does tend to get busy, but the park is great for children — there is a play area, picnic tables, and a small shop next to it for drinks or ice cream. This would be a great picnic spot for the family where parents can relax and kids can play. Rock Park also has some lovely, huge trees, which makes it great for the summer as you can get a little shade when you need it!

Pilton Park

Pilton Park is a smaller, quieter alternative, with the River Yeo curving around the edge of the park, making for a really calming setting. It also has a play area and picnic tables, and with fewer visitors than Rock Park, it can feel like more of a hidden gem. If you prefer a more peaceful picnic spot in Barnstaple, Pilton Park is well worth a visit.

Instow Picnic Spots

Instow is a peaceful estuary village with a sandy beach and a relaxed, unhurried feel. It might be smaller than some of North Devon’s more well-known spots, but it more than makes up for it with its charm — and it has some lovely picnic options too.

Beach Dunes

This can be a beautiful spot for a picnic for beach lovers, especially at sunset with the hazy glow over the dunes. During the evening, the dunes are seldom busy, so enjoy the peace and quiet with a glass of fizz and some snacks. This would be a great romantic spot, so if you’re looking for a cosy beach picnic spot, head to Instow Dunes. You can find out more about staying in the area on our Instow holiday cottages page.

Instow Picnic Spot

There is literally a spot called Instow Picnic Spot, where you can find grassy areas if the beach isn’t your thing. Great for a walk, a wander and pitching up for some food. Bring your family and the dog for a perfect afternoon in Instow. Instow also sits directly on the Tarka Trail, so it’s easy to combine a picnic with a longer walk or cycle along the estuary.

If you’ve finished your picnic and feel like you need an extra treat, grab yourself an ice cream from the Hocking’s van on the beach! A perfect way to finish a great outing.

This is a good list for the best picnic spots in North Devon to get you going or to give you a direction to head in, but we recommend venturing more. North Devon is so full of stunning countryside, woodland walks, beaches and fields, but sometimes the best places are most hidden. Don’t be afraid to explore and find your own hidden picnic spots.

Explore the beauty that North Devon has to offer while you stay in one of our holiday cottages this summer.