Attractions and Places To See around Clovelly - Top 20

The area around Clovelly is rich in natural beauty. You can visit Spekes Mill Mouth Waterfall, where water plunges 157 feet (48 m) in three steps to a rocky beach. Another impressive natural monument is Blackchurch Rock, Mouthmill Beach, a large arch stack made from Hartland Quay Shale, set in an isolated cove. The village itself is built into wooded sea cliffs, offering superb coastal views over Bideford Bay and the Bristol Channel.

Yes, Clovelly is an excellent starting point for coastal walks. The South West Coast Path runs along this stunning stretch of coastline, offering extensive views. You can hike towards Westward Ho! or Hartland Quay. For specific routes, consider exploring the running trails around Clovelly, which include challenging sections like the 'Fallen Trees Blocking Path – The Hobby Drive loop'.

The entire village of Clovelly is a historic landmark, known for its steep, cobbled streets and traditional cottages. Key sites include the 14th-century Clovelly Harbour and Quay, the Fisherman's Cottage which offers a glimpse into 1930s life, and the Kingsley Museum dedicated to author Charles Kingsley. You can also find the Chapel of St Peter, All Saints Church with its Cary family monuments, and historic buildings like Crazy Kate's Cottage and Temple Bar Cottage.

Clovelly is a privately owned, car-free fishing village that clings to a 400-foot cliff. Its unique character is preserved by its cobbled streets, where donkeys and sledges were historically the primary means of transport. The village offers superb views over Clovelly Bay and the Bristol Channel, providing a timeless glimpse into its past.

Beyond exploring the unique village itself, children can often enjoy rides on the Clovelly Donkeys, which are a charming historic presence. While not directly in the village, the nearby Milky Way Adventure Park offers a wide range of activities for all ages, including a roller coaster, indoor play, and falconry shows. The village itself is considered family-friendly, as noted in the highlight for Clovelly.

The spring and summer months (late April / early May) are particularly beautiful, with wildflowers like bluebells flourishing in the surrounding woods. The sheltered, sunny spot of Clovelly Court Gardens also thrives during these warmer periods. Coastal walks are enjoyable in milder weather, but always be prepared for changing conditions on the South West Coast Path.

Within Clovelly village, The Red Lion Hotel is an attractive 18th-century hotel and restaurant located at the quay. The Visitor Centre also has a cafeteria. Further along the coast path, Hartland Quay features a hotel and pub, offering a wonderful place to stop. For a more rustic option, Peppercombe Coach House provides a great place to stop or even camp overnight, with a pub about a mile up the hill.

The area offers excellent opportunities for cycling and mountain biking. You can explore various routes, such as the 'Coffee on the Square – Muddy Bridle Path loop' for touring bicycles or the 'Brownsham Wood – View of Eldern Point loop' for mountain biking. For more details, check the cycling guide and MTB trails guide around Clovelly.

Clovelly village is unique because it is car-free and features very steep, cobbled streets. This means vehicular access is not possible within the village itself. Visitors typically start at the Visitor Centre, where an admission fee covers entry. While the village's steepness might be challenging for some, the surrounding coastal paths offer varying terrains. Always check specific accessibility details if you have mobility concerns.

Visitors frequently praise the unique, timeless character of Clovelly village, describing it as magnificent and very unique. The stunning coastal views from the village and along the South West Coast Path are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the rugged beauty of natural sites like Blackchurch Rock and Spekes Mill Mouth Waterfall, often noting the peacefulness and beautiful nature, especially during wildflower season.

While Clovelly itself is well-known, exploring the surrounding woodland areas like Gallantry Bower can offer superb, less-crowded coastal views over Bideford Bay. Mouth Mill, near Blackchurch Rock, features charming mill remains and remnants of old lime kilns, adding a historical touch to a beautiful natural setting. Peppercombe Coach House is also considered an 'absolute gem' by visitors, offering a safe and dry rest area directly on the coastal path.