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United Kingdom
England
South West England
Devon
North Devon

Kentisbury

Attractions and Places To See around Kentisbury - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Kentisbury, a rural parish in North Devon, England, include a variety of natural features, historical landmarks, and cultural sites. The area borders Exmoor National Park, providing access to diverse landscapes of moorland, woodlands, and deep valleys. Kentisbury also serves as a base for exploring the North Devon coast, with its beaches and dramatic sea cliffs. This region offers a mix of outdoor activities and historical exploration.

Best attractions and places to see around Kentisbury

  • The most popular attractions is Valley of Rocks, a gorge that is a dry valley with steep cliffs and sea views. It is notable for its geology and a herd of feral goats that inhabit the area.
  • Another must-see spot is Lynmouth, a settlement renowned for high sea cliffs and natural beauty. Visitors can expect a village that serves as a starting point for exploring the inner moor and coastal paths.
  • Visitors also love North Walk (South West Coast Path), a trail clinging to the cliff face. This stretch offers views across to Wales and along the Exmoor coast, making it a scenic walking route.
  • Kentisbury is known for its natural features like gorges and coastal trails, as well as historical sites and family-friendly attractions. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from dramatic coastlines to charming villages.
  • The attractions around Kentisbury are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 400 upvotes and over 180 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: May 9, 2026

Valley of Rocks

Highlight • Gorge

One of the most incredible natural features of the North Devon coastline, the Valley of Rocks is a dry valley with steep cliffs and sea views. As you walk through here, keep an eye out for feral goats nibbling plants on precipitous rocks and bounding about with no care for the dramatic drops below. The goats have lived here for hundreds of years, although had to be reintroduced in the 70s after extreme winters in the 60s decimated the population.

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Lynmouth

Highlight • Settlement

The villages of Lynton and Lynmouth, situated on the North Coast of Devon, are renowned for high sea cliffs, breathtaking natural beauty and unspoilt landscape. From here, you are perfectly placed to access the inner moor, visit historic houses, inspiring gardens, as well as catch glimpses of the majestic red deer and the wild Exmoor ponies.

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North Walk (South West Coast Path)

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

North Walk is one of the most stunning stretches of the South West Coast Path. Clinging to the cliff face, it offers views across to Wales and along the Exmoor coast.

It is an easy-going walk along North Walk from Lynton to the Valley of Rocks and it is equally easy to forget the work once involved in constructing it.

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Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway

Highlight • Structure

The Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway is the highest and steepest fully-water-powered railway in the UK. Built in 1888, the steep 862-foot (263 m) long track rises 500 feet (152 m) between the two neighbouring villages; which are close in distance but a fair-step apart in terms of height. The railway is open daily from 10am between February and November. Tickets are quite affordable but they don't accept cash – card only. You can take dogs and bikes, too. For more information, visit: cliffrailwaylynton.co.uk.

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Combe Martin Beach

Highlight • Beach

Combe Martin Beach is set in a picturesque location just below the village. It’s surrounded by some of the highest sea cliffs in England and is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The beach itself is a mixture of shingle and pebbles but gets sandier as you approach the water. It’s a great spot for swimming as its sheltered position offers protection from stronger currents and waves. However, there is no lifeguard so care should be taken.

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Tips from the Community

Theo
July 28, 2025, North Walk (South West Coast Path)

From one of the three parking areas you can easily walk to beautiful viewpoints.

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It saves walking up a steep hill but more than that, it's a great experience. Clever engineering that has stood the test of time.

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Great feat of engineering , travel up for a great view of Lynmouth and surrounding area😄

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The café at the top of the mountain station offers freshly baked and delicious pasties.

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A beautiful route along the coast with great views. With a bit of luck, you might spot goats grazing on the steep slopes.

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The Cliff Railway takes you back uphill to Lynton in an environmentally friendly way, powered by hydropower.

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FARID L
June 4, 2024, Lynmouth

Moderate trail for a good day out exploring this magnificent place

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Steffi
April 3, 2024, Valley of Rocks

This tour is beautiful and highly recommended. We had a drink down in Lynmouth and went back up on the water slide. Then we went to Charly's in Lynton.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What natural features can I explore around Kentisbury?

Kentisbury borders Exmoor National Park, offering diverse landscapes of moorland, woodlands, and deep valleys. You can visit the dramatic Valley of Rocks, known for its unique geology and feral goats, or explore the scenic trails around Wistlandpound Reservoir. The North Devon coast is also easily accessible, with beaches like Woolacombe and Croyde, and the striking cliffs around Combe Martin.

Are there good hiking or walking trails near Kentisbury?

Yes, the area offers numerous trails. Within Exmoor National Park, you can find walks like the Tall Trees Trail at Nutcombe Bottom. The North Walk (South West Coast Path) provides stunning coastal views between Lynton and the Valley of Rocks. For more options, you can explore various routes detailed in the Running Trails around Kentisbury guide.

What historical sites are worth visiting near Kentisbury?

You can visit Arlington Court, a National Trust estate south of Kentisbury, featuring an opulent neoclassical house, beautiful gardens, and a Carriage Museum. The villages of Lynton and Lynmouth, connected by the historic Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway, also offer a glimpse into Victorian heritage and charming harbor life.

Are there family-friendly attractions around Kentisbury?

Absolutely! Families can enjoy the Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park, which features a variety of animals and dinosaur exhibits. Exmoor Zoo, home to meerkats, wolves, and rare birds, is another popular choice. Watermouth Castle near Ilfracombe offers eccentric treasures, nostalgic displays, and a theme park with rides and play areas.

Where can I find dog-friendly walking routes in the area?

Many trails in Exmoor National Park and along the North Devon coast are dog-friendly. The Valley of Rocks is a great place to walk with dogs, and many beaches allow dogs, though seasonal restrictions may apply. Always check local signage for specific rules.

What is the best time to visit the Valley of Rocks?

The Valley of Rocks is beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking and spotting the feral goats. Autumn provides dramatic scenery with changing foliage, and even in winter, the rugged coastal views are impressive, though paths can be exposed to wind.

Are there any accessible paths for wheelchairs in Exmoor National Park near Kentisbury?

Yes, Exmoor National Park offers some accessible trails. The paths around Wistlandpound Reservoir are known for being accessible, providing scenic views for all visitors. It's always advisable to check the specific trail conditions before your visit.

What kind of outdoor activities, besides hiking, are available?

Beyond hiking, you can enjoy road cycling and touring bicycle routes. The area offers diverse terrain for cyclists, with routes like the 'View of Hele Bay – Combe Martin Beach loop' for road cycling or the 'Valley of Rocks – Lee Abbey loop' for touring. You can find more details in the Road Cycling Routes around Kentisbury and Cycling around Kentisbury guides.

Where can I find pubs or cafes near popular attractions?

The villages of Lynton and Lynmouth, connected by the Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway, offer various cafes and pubs. The Old Station House Inn in Kentisbury itself is a local pub. Additionally, the historic market town of Barnstaple, a short drive away, boasts independent shops, cafes, and restaurants.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Kentisbury?

Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking natural beauty, especially the high sea cliffs and unspoilt landscapes of the North Devon coast and Exmoor. The dramatic views from places like the North Walk (South West Coast Path) and the unique geology of the Valley of Rocks are highly appreciated. The charm of villages like Lynmouth and the historical significance of sites like Arlington Court also receive positive feedback.

Are there any beaches suitable for swimming near Kentisbury?

Yes, Combe Martin Beach is a good option, offering sheltered swimming conditions due to its position between high sea cliffs. It's a mix of shingle and pebbles that becomes sandier near the water. Other popular sandy beaches like Woolacombe and Croyde are also within a short drive.

How long does it take to explore Arlington Court?

Exploring Arlington Court, including the house, gardens, and Carriage Museum, can easily take half a day or more, depending on your interest. Many visitors spend 2-4 hours to fully appreciate the estate and its collections.

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