24 THINGS TO DO IN NORTH DEVON IN AUTUMN AND WINTER
Your Seasonal Guide
Welcome to your seasonal guide to things to do in North Devon during autumn and winter—a time when the coast slows, the countryside glows, and the crisp air invites joyful exploration.
Whether you’re strolling along windswept beaches, discovering Exmoor National Park, or browsing the unique shops tucked within charming villages, there’s something magical about these quieter months.
This guide to things to do highlights some of our favourite things North Devon has to offer, from mindful activities in nature to family-friendly days out. As you explore North Devon, you’ll uncover hidden gems and create your own special moments.
Here are 24 of our favourite recommendations to fuel your imagination and spark new adventures…
We thought we’d start with the unusual! These recommendations offer ways to experience North Devon’s quirkier side, promising all-weather, all-season fun. Whether they’re unique to the region, a break from the norm, or just unusually good, there’s something for everyone here.
From indulging in doughnuts at Heartbreak Hotel to sinking into North Devon’s largest bath, or visiting the controversial Verity sculpture in Ilfracombe — this list celebrates the wealth of things that make the area special.
Image: Heartbreak Hotel Coffee
1. Eat doughnuts from Heartbreak Hotel
Serving homemade bakes and radness all day, Heartbreak Hotel Coffee in Braunton is where you’ll find some of the best beans and baristas in all of North Devon, but today we’re all about the doughnuts. We know, doughnuts aren’t unusual per se, but these are soooo unusually good, we couldn’t not include them!
Visit Friday – Sunday to pick up a freshly made doughnut – they’re out of this world. Salted caramel custard, apple and blackberry, and Nutella are among our favourites (to name a few!) They run out fast though, we recommend ordering online to avoid disappointment.
The gateway to the northern coast, Braunton is just a short drive from two of the area’s most famous beaches – Saunton Sands and Croyde – so we suggest getting doughnuts then going for a beach walk.
Love coffee? Check out our guide to the best coffee shops in North Devon.
2. Sink into North Devon’s largest bath
Hidden in The Alchemist Spa – a spa in North Devon – you’ll find a private bathing suite with a giant copper tub – designed for two.
Book a copper tub bathing experience and bath butler will draw your bath and add your choice of oil so you can simply sink in and relax. The perfect way to wind down!
3. Visit Verity in Ilfracombe
Verity is a 66 foot stainless steel and bronze sculpture, created by world famous artist Damien Hirst.
She stands proud on Ilfracombe pier at the entrance to the harbour. Looking out over the Bristol Channel towards South Wales, Verity has been loaned to the town for 20 years.
The much-debated artwork, which depicts a naked pregnant woman holding aloft a sword and clutching the scales of justice is not without controversy – when she was first unveiled she was called a ‘monstrosity’ and Hirst was accused of reducing public art ‘to a new low’. Take a trip to pretty Ilfracombe to see where you stand on this debate!
4. Watch a movie in North Devon’s smallest cinema
If the weather isn’t playing ball and you’re looking for a cosy indoor attraction, this is an experience like no other. With just 30 seats, NEO Cinema in Woolacombe is an intimate little hideaway that showcases all the latest blockbusters.
Swap your soft drink for a glass of wine or a G&T, sink into a sumptuous sofa and prepared to be wow’d. Traditional sweets, popcorn, and private hire are all available.
5. Throw some pottery
One of our favourite North Devon activities, and perfect for rainy days, Tarka Pottery & Ceramics is well worth a visit!
Located in Little Torrington (near Bideford and Barnstaple), this family attraction offers short workshops and two-day masterclasses. Perhaps you can design something to capture memories from your trip?
6. Climb to dizzy heights with a VersaClimber class
Designed to keep you moving, a fast paced 45-minute VersaClimber class at SALT Gymnasia will blend exercise with heart-thumping bass beats – in a way you’ve never experienced before.
Unless you do a lot of climbing in your usual workout routine, a VersaClimber session will help you tap into muscles that are otherwise not usually targeted. The upright VersaClimbers allow you to control the resistance, and just a 45 minute climb will burn more calories than any other burner in the gym, by a mile. Sessions are available daily.
7. Go on a ‘sk:incredible’ Spa Journey
If you love spa experiences, you’ve got to try this! Inspired by ancient Arabic bathing rituals, the rasul here at the hotel is a beautiful tiled steam chamber designed to deeply cleanse and detox tired weary pores.
This is an utterly unique, self-administered spa experience that can be enjoyed privately, with friends, or as a couple. Visit the scrub bar to choose your favourite scented mud and scrub combination, then step into the rasul and slather yourself from top to toe in hand-harvested mud.
Bursts of steam will fill the room allowing you to work the mud over your body, before an overhead water mist is released and a shower signals it’s time to remove the mud. Next, apply scrub to deeply cleanse your skin, while steam fills the room to open your pores, before you de-scrub using a warm exfoliating mitt.
Intrigued? Check out our Complete Guide to Rasul Mud Rituals.
Image by Sonderwest
8. Book a coastal photoshoot to capture your family day in North Devon
How often do you take photos but they remain locked in your phone?
Book a session with a talented local photographer and they can suggest a gorgeous local backdrop to capture your memories – as a family, a couple, or independently.
You’ll meet at a beautiful location of your choosing or of their recommendation, before setting off on a casual wander. Through gentle direction a talented photographer can capture candid moments along the way – while you are completely at ease. Perfect for capturing a special moment, or just because.
If you’d like a recommendation, the talented Jo at Sonderwest is local and can make any weather work!
North Devon is home to some of the best beaches in the South West, and their beauty isn’t reserved for summer alone. Whether you’re rockpooling for coastal critters, catching waves, or visiting Saunton Beach—where Angels was filmed—the magic of the shore remains year-round.
So, wrap up warm and explore the stunning North Devon coastline. A beach day isn’t just for sunbathers; it’s a perfect way to embrace the elements and fully experience your holiday in North Devon.
9. Go rockpooling to find some coastal critters
Rockpooling is one of our favourite North Devon things to do. It’s like another world – as the tide goes out, the secrets of the sea are revealed in the glittering rock pools left behind! Wildlife including crabs, shrimps, anemones, limpets, snails and starfish can all commonly be seen in rockpools around the North Devon coastline.
Lee Bay, between Ilfracombe and Woolacombe is a sheltered cove with excellent rockpooling. And nearby Combe Martin has some really deep pools, affording you great views of sponges, volcano barnacles, coral weed and strawberry anemones.
10. Catch a wave or two on the North Devon beaches
There are few things as exhilarating as the first time you catch a wave. Waiting with bated breath as the green belly of the wave swells. Then comes a frenzied succession of paddling, drawing your legs up to stand, and flying on its crest.
It’s no secret that North Devon has some of the finest surfing in the UK. Strong westerly swells from the Atlantic Ocean roll in to our long, gently shelving sandy beaches.
Our very own Woolacombe Beach has a very forgiving beach break, and is excellent for beginners. Saunton is is also suited to beginner and intermediate surfers – more so than its neighbour, Croyde Bay which is a lot more testing.
If you’re a fan of smaller beaches, Putsborough Sands is a favourite with North Devon locals. It’s perfect for sunset sessions – keep an eye out for long cruisey waves – they’re especially good for longboarders. Putsborough has clear water, great surf and a gentler away-from-it all feel.
11. Visit the famous Saunton beach where Angels was filmed
Saunton Sands is not only famous for being a fabulous surf beach within the North Devon area, it’s also famous for its celebrity connections! Robbie Williams has dipped his little toe in the Atlantic here, when making the video for Angels and Pink Floyd chose the beach as a fitting image for their album cover – Momentary Lapse of Reason.
Exmoor National Park offers a breathtaking escape into nature, blending rolling moorland, wooded valleys, and dramatic cliffs that tumble into the sea.
As both a North Devon Area of Outstanding Beauty and part of the North Devon biosphere, Exmoor is teeming with diverse wildlife, from wild ponies to soaring birds of prey.
Whether you’re exploring coastal trails, wandering through ancient woodlands, or simply gazing at the star-filled skies in this designated Dark Sky Reserve, Exmoor promises peace, adventure, and a connection to nature in every season.
In autumn and winter we recommend…
12. Take a trip to the Valley of the Rocks
The Valley of the Rocks is arguably one of the most spectacular scenic locations on Exmoor.
Head to Lynton to take the walking route from the Cliff Railway Station (14) – the hike rewards are heady – incredible views and out of this world rock formations. If you don’t fancy the hike, there are a couple of car parks in the valley. You might get lucky and meet a herd of friendly feral goats when you visit.
Autumn and winter bring a quieter charm to one of North Devon’s most picturesque destinations. While the crowds ease, places like Clovelly and Lynton and Lynmouth retain their character and beauty, making it the perfect time to wrap up warm and explore.
These Devon attractions don’t stop entirely—though things do slow down in December and January—so there’s still plenty to see in North Devon during a crisp day trip. Whether it’s walking cobbled streets, visiting harbours, or enjoying a hot drink by the sea, these coastal gems invite you to experience them in every season.
13. Visit a quaint fishing village and harbour
Clovelly is famous the world over. This 16th-century fishing village clings to a 400 foot cliff. Once owned by the queen, it has candy-coloured streets and one of the prettiest harbours anywhere.
There is no vehicular traffic allowed on its steeply cobbled streets, so you’ll need to park on the outskirts. Donkeys used to be used to transport goods into the village, but these have now been replaced with sledges. When you park there is a small admission fee to enter the village. You can meet the donkeys, explore the information centre and head, by foot, into the beautiful village.
14. Discover Lynton and Lynmouth
Thanks to its Switzerland-esque landscapes, this area is on the North Devon coast is often called ‘Little Switzerland’. Visit Lynmouth and the neighbouring village of Lynton for one of the best days out in Devon – there’s walks, views and you’ll definitely find something North Devon is famous for: a fantastic cream tea. You can even make a full day of it, riding the cliff railway between the two (please note the railway closes December – January, please check current opening times).
North Devon is the perfect place to reconnect with nature and the elements. From the soothing rhythm of crashing waves to the stillness of starlit skies, spending time in North Devon invites moments of reflection and presence.
Whether you’re watching the ponies climb the hillside or diving into the sea for a wild swim, the coastline and moors of North Devon offer a range of things to awaken the senses.
All of these activities are practically free, and these mindful moments are some of the best ways to experience North Devon – simple pleasures that stay with you long after your Devon break.
15. Watch the Golden Hour
We are blessed with some of the most dramatic sunsets here in North Devon, and with miles of clear clifftops, countless secret coves and acres of private grounds we can recommend the best spots to catch it.
Bring a warm blanket and snuggle up in the sand dunes with a flask of hot tea for a beautiful panoramic view of this natural show. Watch in awe as the light slowly ebbs away over the waves.
Our favourite spots to watch the sunset: Woolacombe Down/Potter’s Hill (birds-eye view/all year round), and Saunton/Croyde (winter)
16. Go stargazing
Exmoor is renowned for its exceptionally dark skies, making it one of the best places in the UK to observe stars, planets, and other celestial events. In fact, Exmoor National Park was designated as Europe’s first International Dark Sky Reserve in 2011.
The Exmoor Dark Sky Discovery Trail is a designated route within Exmoor National Park which leads stargazers to key spots that are free from light pollution – Discovery Sites – allowing for stunning night sky views, with minimal light pollution.
You can explore the trail independently with maps and guidance from Exmoor National Park resources or join guided tours, especially during Exmoor’s Dark Skies Festival in autumn. Signposts and star maps along the trail will help you identify constellations and other celestial features.
On a clear night, the Milky Way is easily visible, as well as major constellations like Orion in the winter. The trail is an ideal spot to watch meteor showers, such as the Perseids and Geminids.
17. Go wild swimming
Wild swimming, or just cold water swimming as it used to be known, is a chance to re-engage with nature – and it doesn’t get wilder than the Exmoor National Park!
Our favourite wild swimming spots include Woody Bay, Watersmeet, and The River Barle on Exmoor.
Cold-water swimmers say they suffer less illness, are better able to deal with stress, and enjoy a boost in wellbeing with every icy dip…maybe it’s worth a try!
18. Watch the ponies climb the hill
The hills that rise up from Woolacombe Beach are home to some of the most beautiful wild ponies. Most mornings they climb the hill in a trail. For a simple pleasure, rise early and watch the ponies climb.
19. Hunker down and see the waves crash
Here on the wild North Devon coast we regularly experience all four seasons in a single day! Come and stay in the winter and you’re most likely to get front row seats to catch mother nature at her most wicked. Wrap up warm, head out and watch her raw power unfold.
Our favourite spots are the Woolacombe dunes and Morte Point. Or, to watch nature’s cinema from somewhere cosy, head to The Pavilion Dining Room located on the first floor of the Exmoor National Park Visitor Centre; here you’ll find breathtaking views and tasty treats.
20. Fly a kite
A windy day near the coast makes for perfect kite-flying weather. While you’re flying your kite, keep an eye on the sky for seabirds such as sandwich terns, oystercatchers and black-headed seagulls that swoop and dive above beaches and cliffs.
21. Take part in a beach clean
Taking part in a beach clean is a really feel-good way to connect with your environment when you visit North Devon. We’re a proud, plastic-free community. Our beaches are some of the most spectacular in the UK, but they need your help to stay that way.
Plastic Free North Devon host regular beach cleans where volunteers come together for a couple of hours to help keep the coastline beautiful, but you don’t have to attend an organised beach clean to have an impact. Carry out a #2minutebeachclean every time you are at the beach. Every piece of plastic picked up ensures it is not harming wildlife.
Image: Parkrun
22. Compete in one of the UK’s toughest Parkruns
The Woolacombe Dunes Parkrun is thought to be among the toughest in the UK. Register to join over 200 runners in their weekly 5km run, starting at The Porthole cafe at the end of Marine Drive car park, off Challacombe Hill Rd, Woolacombe, EX34 7ZZ.
The course takes you over a mixture of stone track, sand dunes and sand. Taking place every Saturday at 9am, the course is rich and diverse with stunning views.
While towns like Barnstaple offer many of the well-known high street shops, North Devon also has lots of unique gems that promise a more personal touch.
Some gift shops close in the winter, but those that don’t really welcome your support. Shopping here isn’t just about buying plenty of things – it’s about experiencing the essence of the area through its craft and creativity. If you just have time for a couple of shopping stops during your visit to North Devon, these are perfect additions to your list of things to do and places to explore during your visit…
Image: Wanderlustlife
23. Buy a souvenir from Wanderlust Life
A North Devon fashion staple, Wanderlust Life is a jewellers based in Braunton. If you’d like a souvenir from your stay, pop into their lovely, light studio to browse and watch Wanderlust Life’s own makers creating their popular understated jewellery.
Their signature look features a spectrum of semi-precious faceted stones punctuating delicate gold chains, fine cord necklaces, earrings, bracelets and rings. Minimal but meaningful, each piece holds a narrative and is designed to act as a talisman or visual mantra, bringing a spirit of curiosity and courage into everyday life. They are open all year.
Image: The Proper Marmalade Company
24. Go mad for Marmalade
The marmalades from The Proper Marmalade Company have won over 100 awards, including the Paddington Bear ‘Paw of Approval’!
Visit their shop in Ilfracombe to pick your favourite from over 30 marmalades. All are made with 100% fresh fruit by hand. What’s your flavour? Devoncello? Espresso Martini? Pink Grapefruit? The options are endless!
There’s so much to see and do in North Devon…
Whether you’re exploring the coastline, delving into the charm of villages, or reconnecting with nature, North Devon and Exmoor offer a range of fun ways to enjoy every season. Even when the weather turns, there are still plenty of top things to experience—proving that North Devon in the rain is just another chapter in the story of North Devon’s unique appeal.
Take a few days to explore in North Devon, and you’ll find that every visit brings new discoveries and memorable moments. From mindful escapes to shopping adventures, this guide highlights the best ways to enjoy the beauty and charm of the region year-round. We hope it inspires your next adventure!
If you’re looking for the perfect base to explore everything North Devon and Exmoor have to offer, look no further than Woolacombe Bay Hotel. Nestled by the award-winning Woolacombe Beach, our hotel in North Devon offers the ideal blend of luxury, relaxation, and adventure – whatever the season!
With stylish rooms and suites—many with views of the North Devon coast—plus a range of experiences including The Alchemist Spa, the intimate NEO Cinema, and SALT Gymnasia, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy exceptional dining at the Bay Brasserie, unwind with a signature spa treatment, or take a stroll along one of the best beaches in North Devon.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a North Devon holiday with your family, or a solo spa break, the Woolacombe Bay Hotel is the perfect place to relax, recharge, and make lasting memories. Take a look at our Hotel Gallery, and discover why it’s one of the best hotels in North Devon.
For exclusive North Devon discounts on stays, and inspiration from North Devon, follow us on Instagram.
