Attractions and Places To See around West Putford - Top 15

West Putford itself offers several historical sites, including the cruciform early 14th-century St. Stephen's Church, a Grade I listed building with a Norman font and a tower from around 1500. You can also see Churston House (circa 1600) and Cory Barton (16th-century). The 13th-century Kismeldon Bridge spans the River Torridge, and ancient tumuli (burial mounds) are found on the high ground. Nearby, the picturesque fishing village of Clovelly is known for its timeless character and historical significance.

Yes, a truly unique attraction is The Gnome Reserve, located a short distance from West Putford. It holds the Guinness World Record for the largest gnome collection, with over 2,000 garden gnomes and pixies spread across four acres. Visitors are even provided with gnome hats and fishing rods for a full immersive experience. You can learn more about it on Atlas Obscura.

The area boasts several natural highlights. The Hobby Drive offers mystical woodlands with over 250 varieties of lichen and spellbinding glimpses of the coast. Upper Tamar Lake is a scenic spot with a gravel track circulating around it, ideal for walks. The village of Clovelly, perched on a 400-foot cliff, provides superb views of the coastline.

Absolutely. For family fun, The Milky Way Adventure Park is a popular theme park located about 4.8 miles away. The Gnome Reserve offers a quirky and engaging experience for all ages. Clovelly, with its unique character and car-free cobbled streets, is also a memorable visit for families. Additionally, Upper Tamar Lake provides opportunities for outdoor activities suitable for families.

There are numerous walking and hiking opportunities. The Hobby Drive is a scenic trail through woodlands with coastal views. You can also enjoy walks around Upper Tamar Lake on its gravel track. For more extensive options, consider routes like the 'Bucks Mill & Peppercombe loop' or 'The Hobby Drive – Clovelly loop'. You can find detailed hiking routes in the Hiking around West Putford guide.

Yes, the area offers several cycling routes. You can explore the 'Upper River Tamar and Tamar Lakes loop' or a shorter 'Upper Tamar Lake loop'. For more challenging rides, there are routes like the 'Bude Canal – Compass Point Storm Tower loop'. Discover more options in the Cycling around West Putford guide.

Yes, West Putford provides good access to the coast. Westward Ho! Beach is a popular seaside destination approximately 9.1 miles away. The scenic Hobby Drive offers glimpses of the coast through its woodlands, and Peppercombe Coach House is located directly on the coastal path, offering a unique overnight camping experience.

The best time to visit West Putford and the surrounding North Devon area is generally during the spring (April-May) and summer (June-August) months. The weather is milder and more conducive to outdoor activities, and attractions like RHS Garden Rosemoor are in full bloom. Coastal paths and beaches are also most enjoyable during these seasons. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, though weather can be more unpredictable.

Many of the natural outdoor spaces around West Putford are dog-friendly. Trails like Pathway to Kinsale are suitable for walks with dogs. Beaches like Westward Ho! Beach often have specific areas or times of year where dogs are permitted, so it's advisable to check local signage. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially around livestock.

Public transport options to some of the more rural attractions like Clovelly or Upper Tamar Lake can be limited. While local bus services connect larger towns, reaching specific attractions often requires a combination of bus and walking, or a taxi. It's recommended to check current bus schedules and routes for the Torridge district in advance for the most up-to-date information.

West Putford is a small village, so dining and accommodation options within the village itself are limited. However, the surrounding towns and villages in North Devon offer a range of pubs, cafes, and restaurants. Nearby towns like Bideford, Great Torrington, and Clovelly (which has cafes) provide more choices for meals and overnight stays. For those exploring the coastal path, Peppercombe Coach House offers a unique overnight camping experience.

While some of the natural trails, like those around Upper Tamar Lake, feature gravel tracks that may be suitable for some mobility aids, the terrain in North Devon can be varied and challenging. Clovelly, for instance, has very steep cobbled streets and no vehicular access, making it difficult for those with mobility issues. It's best to check specific accessibility details for each attraction directly before visiting.

Visitors frequently praise the unique character of places like Clovelly, noting its magnificent and timeless feel. The scenic beauty of The Hobby Drive, with its mystical woodlands and coastal glimpses, is also highly appreciated. Many find Peppercombe Coach House to be a 'gem' for its shelter and peaceful overnight camping. The tranquility and natural landscapes, such as Upper Tamar Lake, are also popular highlights.