Unique holiday activities in Ilfracombe

Ilfracombe is a quaint seaside town packed with activities for families, couples and solo travellers. You’ll find a beautiful harbour, amusements and excellent beaches nearby such as Hele Bay, Combesgate, Watermouth Bay and Lee Bay.

You can choose to spend the afternoon exploring at your own pace, taking in sights such as St Nicolas’ Chapel (on Lantern Hill), the Tunnels Beaches and Damien Hirst’s iconic ‘Verity’ statue that towers over the harbour. Ilfracombe is part of North Devon Coast AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) so you will not be disappointed by the scenery.

However, if you’re looking for something a little more active or unusual to do then below are some further ideas for activities in Ilfracombe and around the area.

The Ilfracombe Chocolate Emporium

Did someone say chocolate workshops?

The Chocolate Emporium is based on the High Street in Ilfracombe. Located inside is a small but very informative museum on the history of chocolate. Alongside, obviously all the chocolate you could ever imagine and then some; including catering for those who are gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan. Chocolates are handmade on site and you can often even see the process happening.

Workshops start at £10 for a decorating session, ideal for children. With chocolate-making workshops starting at £65

Coastal Swim Coaching

Based in Hele Bay, just outside of Ilfracombe, Coastal Swim Coaching specialises in sea swimming and cold water dipping along the North Devon Coast.

They provide one-to-one and group sessions with a qualified open-water swim coach. These are suitable for all abilities, whether you’re a first-time sea swimmer or a pro training for an event.

Devon Ghost Tours

Not one for the faint-hearted, Devon Ghost Tours offers paranormal nights at haunted locations around Ilfracombe. Join them for a walking tour and learn about the ghosts, myths and legends of the area.

Ghost hunting experience nights cost £20 per person

Walking tours cost £14 per person

Ilfracombe Sea Safari

Ilfracombe Sea Safari has been operating since 2013. They offer coastline tours in their range of boats, including their purpose-built RIBs and their 12ft SeaSwift Catamaran. The trips are suitable for all ages & are fun for the whole family. With many options including a dolphin safari, a trip to Lundy Island or a ride around the coast at sunset – you may want to take more than one trip!

Please remember to wrap warm though – even on a sunny day there can be quite a chilly breeze. Boats carry up to 12 passengers (and 2 crew), with the option to hire out the whole boat if you’re here as a large party.

Prices vary depending on the safari length but start at £24.50 for adults & 17.50 for children for a 1-hour safari

Keypitts Off Road Adventures

Keypitts is a family-run farm which diversified in 1998. It now offers Quad biking, Axe Throwing, Mini Landrovers and 4×4 Experiences. They are open all year round no matter the weather! In fact, they argue that wetter is better – so if you are looking for something to do on a rainy day and don’t mind getting muddy then book yourselves in.

They recommend wearing old clothes and waterproofs if it’s raining (which can be bought from them); so if you think you might plan to go during your stay make sure you bring something suitable.

Dogs can be brought with you as long as they stay on a lead. They are also able to adapt, where possible, to meet the requirements of anyone in your party who may have additional needs so that the whole family can enjoy a day out.

Prices vary depending on activity.

South West Shooting School

Looking for something a little different? Then look no further! Clay Pidgeon shooting is an exciting activity that can be enjoyed by anyone, not just professionals. The South West Shooting School is a Clay Pidgeon Shooting Association (CPSA) Premier Ground. You can book a ‘Have-A-Go’ session at the school, based just outside of Ilfracombe. The session includes instruction, protective equipment and cartridges.

Price from £30 per person for the Have-A-Go session.

Mullacott Riding Centre

Mullacott Equestrian Centre is another long-established local business which has been running since 1999. They have no restrictions on the age of riders and can cater for all abilities, whether you’re a complete novice or an experienced rider.

You can take in one of our local beaches on a beach ride, or opt for a hack around their 600-acre farmland. Alternatively, they also offer riding lessons with their British Horse Society Accredited Coach.

Prices vary depending on activity.

Active Escape Devon

Looking for something a little more exhilarating? Then look no further than Active Escape. They are a dedicated outdoor and adventure activities company. Their offerings include coasteering, paddle boarding, SUP hire, coastal adventure challenges and more. If you’re here with a large group then they are an ideal option to cater for a fun day out. Alternatively, you can also book on as individuals/small groups to their prescheduled activities, or hire our equipment from them to go on your own adventure.

Prices vary depending on activity.

Easy Divers North Devon

At North Devon’s only PADI Diver Centre, you can experience the thrill of diving whether you’re completely new to it or an experienced diver.

If you’re a complete novice, then you can book onto one of their swimming pool try-dives and experience scuba diving in a safe indoor heated pool for £40 per person.

For those who are more experienced, with a PADI open water qualification or equivalent, why not take a dive trip to Lundy Island to see the seals?

As you can see Ilfracombe has much to offer whether you’re a day–tripper or staying in the town, a family or travelling solo, a larger group or here on a romantic retreat.

If you’re staying in a Cottages on the Coast property and need some inspiration with finding activities, then feel free to drop us a line. We will always try to help with local recommendations – we’re keen to make sure that your holiday is a chance for you to make memories that will last.

And if you’re not staying in one of our properties, then be sure to check out our Ilfracombe holiday cottages and book in with us for your next visit!