Westward Ho! brings together a striking coastal landscape, surfing traditions, natural history and an unusually long golfing heritage. When planning your trip, the main question is which side of the place you’d like to explore: the geology along the shore, a walk, or the stories associated with Westward Ho! A level promenade, a section of the coastal path described as easy, and a longer route with strenuous stretches offer different ways to explore the area.
Coast, Geology and Protected Landscape
Pebble Ridge is a shingle barrier that stretches 3.5 km north from Westward Ho! Westward Ho! is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for its coastal geomorphology. The shoreline from Mermaid’s Pool westward to Rowden Gut, near Portledge, is also protected as an SSSI. The protected coastline therefore encompasses more than a single distinctive coastal feature.
The cliffs at Westward Ho! contain the only complete sequence available of the type deposits known as the “Coal Measure” of the Bideford Formation. These deposits formed in a river or lake environment. The foreshore below the cliffs is mostly rocky and has a shingle beach. At especially low water, fossilised tree stumps and roots emerge along the coast. The geological features therefore vary depending on whether you’re looking at the cliffs or the shore.
Nearby is Northam Burrows Country Park, also an SSSI. The area covers around 253 hectares of grassy coastal plain, salt marshes, sand dunes and largely unimproved grassland.
Walks and Choosing a Route
The section of the South West Coast Path from Northam Burrows to Westward Ho! is considered an easy walk. A different kind of route runs from Westward Ho! to Clovelly. It starts in Westward Ho! and is 11.1 miles (17.9 km) long. It initially follows an old railway line up to the cliffs above Westward Ho!, followed by strenuous zigzag sections. In the second half, the path runs along woodland tracks.
The route descriptions are more useful for choosing between these walks than comparing them solely by destination: the section from Northam Burrows is described as an easy walk, while the Clovelly route has a stated length and strenuous sections. This can help you plan according to the kind of walk you’re looking for, without treating the two routes as equivalent.
Waves, Promenade and Swimming
Westward Ho! has welcomed holidaymakers since Victorian times. The beach has consistent waves that attract both beginner and experienced surfers. The level promenade is suitable for wheelchairs, mobility scooters and pushchairs. The waves and promenade therefore offer two distinct ways to enjoy a stay by the water: surfing on the beach and using the level waterside path.
The Westward Ho! Rock Seawater Pool was built in Victorian times and remains a place to swim. Check local safety advice before swimming. The place’s long holiday history thus extends from its Victorian development to the beach and pool options described today.
Literary and Sporting History
The name Westward Ho! comes from Charles Kingsley’s famous novel. Another part of the place’s history is the Royal North Devon Golf Club in Westward Ho!: founded in 1864, it is the oldest golf course in England. The clubhouse houses a golf museum, honour boards and trophies from club competitions. The literary origin of the name and the history of the golf club give the place two distinct cultural points of interest alongside its coast and nature.
Discover more destinations: Dartmouth, Lamerton, Torquay, East Putford, Dittisham, Rackenford, Parkham, Tiverton
For the main travel overview: Devon.
