Clovelly brings together coastal paths, harbour life and village history. If you are considering Clovelly as a destination for a stay, it helps to ask whether you are mainly looking for walks, nature, gardens or the stories of the place.
Walks with different destinations
The South West Coast Path runs directly through Clovelly. The Woodland Walk, also known locally as the Long Walk, connects the village with Clovelly Court Gardens. This makes a difference when choosing a route: the Woodland Walk has the gardens as its named destination, while the South West Coast Path runs through the village.
Hobby Drive winds through woodland and offers views of Clovelly Harbour and Bideford Bay. In addition to the routes between the village and the gardens, woodland and viewpoints are therefore themes in their own right.
On the Clovelly & Mouth Mill walking route, there is a coastal waterfall behind the lifeboat station; a lime kiln stands on Mouth Mill beach. A cave behind the waterfall is associated with Merlin in a local legend. This is a tradition, not a historical attribution. Those interested in local stories and evidence of industrial heritage as well as coastal scenery will encounter these themes on this named walking route.
Nature and harbour life
The cliff woodlands of Clovelly are home to gnarled oaks, as well as various birds, butterflies and small mammals. Both the trees and different groups of animals are among the natural features of the place.
Clovelly Harbour is a working harbour where fishing boats still operate. Crabs can be caught at any time from the rock pools and harbour wall. Before your visit, check the current rules and access conditions for this activity.
Village history and crafts
Clovelly’s donkeys were once an essential part of village life. Visitors can see the animals in the stables at the top of the village. As visitor arrangements can change, check them in advance.
Fisherman's Cottage shows how a Clovelly fisherman and his family lived in the 1930s. The Kingsley Museum provides information about Charles Kingsley and his time in Clovelly. The two houses therefore focus on different things: one illustrates the everyday life of a fishing family, while the other is dedicated to Kingsley and his connection with the place.
At the Craft Yard, visitors can watch craftspeople making printed silk fabrics and ceramics. This experience is seasonal and availability may vary, so check before you travel whether it will be offered during your visit.
Gardens and practical visit planning
Clovelly Court Gardens include restored Victorian greenhouses. Admission to the gardens is included in the Clovelly Village ticket. Check the current ticket details before your visit.
The annual Clovelly Herring Festival takes place in November; the date and programme may vary. If you would like to plan your trip around the festival, check both in advance.
The High Street is steep and can be slippery. Take both into account when planning your visit.
Discover more destinations: Bratton Fleming, Lynmouth, Throwleigh, Woodleigh, Honiton, Tipton Saint John, Yealmpton, Torrington
For the regional travel overview: Devon.
