Nestled on the gorgeous North Devon coastline, Ilfracombe is a historic fishing town that’s well worth a gander when exploring this picturesque region of England. In fact, there’s a heap of the best things to do in Ilfracombe all around the town – but that’s not where it ends! All around the town, there are the most gorgeous coves; trails and little villages which make for a great day trip whilst visiting wider Ilfracombe. 

Now, it’s no surprise that we love this area of England! In fact, we spent a whole trip just in this corner of Devon alone; it was so lovely and totally picturesque. I’m pretty sure we ate our weight in seafood whilst exploring all the little gems in and around the town. 

From iconic pieces of art, historic sites and gorgeous bays, you’re going to be spoilt for choice when you visit for a day trip or a long weekend break. 

So, to help you get the most out of your time once you arrive, I wanted to share some of the best things to do in Ilfracombe when you visit. 

Have the best trip! 

1.) Tunnels and Ilfracombe Beaches

With its cliffside settings and dramatic coast, Tunnels and Ilfracombe Beaches might be pebbly but they’re totally pristine. Not only that, there’s a Victorian bathing pool that’s filled with the incoming tidal waters.

Even on a not-so-sunny day, this is one of the best things to do in Ilfracombe for a little stroll. Just off the beach, you’ve also got part of the South West Coast and some gorgeous views from this viewpoint. 

Feeling peckish? Grab a table at Antidote for their seasonal British menu. Their seafood dishes are always so fresh and tasty. 

Read more: Best things to do in North Devon

2.) Verity

Overlooking the historic harbour of Ilfracombe, Verity is a 20.25-meter tall sculpture (by Damien Hirst) made of stainless steel and bronze which is pretty hard to miss.

Now, Verity herself is a sculpture of a pregnant woman standing on a heap of books, holding the Sword of Justice with one arm. The other side of Verity shows the exposed muscles and the fetus in her womb and it’s pretty impressive to see.

You can easily spot her by taking a stroll down the pier and it’s right next to the Chapel of St Nicholas, too. 

3.) South West Coast Path

Spanning a whopping 630 miles National Trail, the South West Coast Path is one of the best things to do in Ilfracombe if you want to explore the unspoilt coastline nearby.

With cliffside view, hidden coves and an easy trail to follow, it’s a totally great way to get immersed in the dazzling natural beauty of Devon.

You’ll come across places like the; Watermouth, Valley of Rocks, Lynton and Lynmouth (to the east) which are totally picturesque and with their own cliff railway, too!

Just be aware, the walk to the latter points can take upwards of 7-hours (30-minutes in the car). 

If you want somewhere a little closer for a stroll, head to see the cliff views across Broadsands Beach. It’s stunning. 

Read more: Best things to do in North Devon

4.) Watermouth 

Just shy of Ilfracombe itself, Watermouth is a gem of a place to visit for a few hours trip from Ilfracombe. Easily walked along the South West Coast Path (or by driving) you’ll get to visit Watermouth Castle with its beautifully landscaped gardens and take in the views from Watermouth Bay itself. 

Just be sure to grab a cuppa at the cosy, Storm In A Teacup Cafe. Perched on the most adorable little boat, it’s one of those finds that makes Watermouth so unique.

5.) Ilfracombe Museum

Filled with a treasure-trove of curiosities, visiting the museum is one of the best things to do in Ilfracombe if you’re a keen lover of history.

From vintage home appliances, fossils and rare antiques from Ilfracombe’s history, it’s well worth a little gander for an hour or so. 

6.) Ilfracombe Harbour

 With Ilfracombe Harbour being the largest harbour on the North Devon coastline, it’s a spot you probably won’t miss when exploring the town.

It’s the perfect spot to grab an ice cream or a bag of chips and wander the pier area. Just watch out for those pesky seagulls; their chip thieves! 

Also, just around the Quay, you’ll find lots of little boat tours heading out on trips. Some look for dolphins, whilst others follow the coastline.

We headed on the coastal tour (but didn’t see any dolphins)!