Is Bideford a good place for a beach holiday?
Bideford itself is a historic port town on the River Torridge estuary, not directly on the coast. However, it's an excellent and popular base for exploring the stunning sandy beaches of North Devon, which are just a short drive or bus ride away. Many visitors stay in Bideford for its amenities and use it to access nearby coastal spots like Westward Ho!, Saunton Sands, and Croyde.
What kind of holiday are the beaches near Bideford best for?
The area around Bideford is particularly well-suited for family beach holidays, surfing trips, and those who enjoy coastal walks and exploring traditional seaside towns. Beaches like Westward Ho! offer classic family fun, while Croyde and Saunton Sands attract surfers. The South West Coast Path offers excellent walking. It's generally a relaxed, outdoors-focused destination rather than one known for lively nightlife.
Can you actually swim in the sea at beaches near Bideford?
Yes, swimming is popular at the main beaches near Bideford, especially during summer. Westward Ho! has Blue Flag status, indicating high water quality and safety standards, and is lifeguarded seasonally. Saunton Sands, Croyde, and Woolacombe are also popular swimming spots, though the Atlantic water can be chilly. Always be aware of conditions, check local water quality reports (e.g., Surfers Against Sewage app), heed safety flags, and be mindful of potential rip currents, particularly at surf beaches.
What's the main beach closest to Bideford town?
Westward Ho! is the closest main beach to Bideford, located about 3 miles away. It's easily reachable by car or a regular bus service from Bideford Quay. While technically a separate village, it's often considered Bideford's seaside resort.
Should I stay in Bideford town or right by the beach in Westward Ho!?
Staying in Bideford offers more shops, restaurants, and amenities, plus easier access to explore wider North Devon. Staying in Westward Ho! puts you right on the beach, ideal if seaside access is your top priority, but it has fewer non-beach related amenities compared to Bideford. Your choice depends on whether you prefer town convenience or immediate beach access.
How do you get to the beaches like Westward Ho!, Saunton or Croyde from Bideford?
Westward Ho! is easily reached by car (10 mins) or the Stagecoach 21/21A bus from Bideford Quay. Reaching Saunton Sands, Croyde, and Woolacombe typically requires a car (approx. 20-35 mins drive). Public transport options exist via Barnstaple, but are less direct and take longer. Cycling is also possible via routes like the Tarka Trail for parts of the journey.
Is parking difficult or expensive at North Devon beaches?
Parking is available at most main beaches like Westward Ho!, Saunton Sands, Croyde, and Woolacombe, but it can be challenging and expensive, especially during peak summer months and sunny weekends. Car parks often fill up early. Consider arriving early, using public transport where feasible (like the bus to Westward Ho!), or exploring beaches accessible via coastal paths if you prefer to avoid parking stress.
Are dogs allowed on the beaches near Bideford?
Dog policies vary by beach and time of year. Most main beaches, including parts of Westward Ho!, Saunton Sands, Croyde, and Woolacombe, have restrictions between May 1st and September 30th, often limiting dogs to specific zones or prohibiting them during main daytime hours. However, there are usually designated dog-friendly areas or times. Instow beach is generally dog-friendly year-round. Always check local signage for the specific rules before taking your dog onto the beach.
Which beach near Bideford is best for families with young children?
Westward Ho! is often recommended for families due to its long stretch of sand (at low tide) mixed with pebbles, direct access from the village, seasonal lifeguard cover, Blue Flag status, nearby facilities (toilets, cafes, amusements), and a sea pool for swimming. Saunton Sands also offers vast space but facilities are more concentrated at the entrance.
Is Westward Ho! beach sandy or pebbly?
Westward Ho! beach is a mix. At high tide, the upper part of the beach is characterised by a large pebble ridge. As the tide goes out, it reveals a vast expanse of firm, golden sand, stretching for about two miles. So, you get both pebbles and plenty of sand for activities.
Are Saunton Sands or Croyde better for surfing?
Both are top UK surf spots. Croyde is famous for its powerful, hollow waves, often favoured by experienced surfers. Saunton Sands offers long, slower-breaking waves, making it generally more suitable for beginners, longboarders, and intermediate surfers. Both have surf schools offering lessons and hire.
Are there any quieter, less busy beaches near Bideford?
Yes, if you're looking to escape the crowds of the main beaches, consider Instow beach across the estuary (better for walks and views than swimming), or explore more secluded coves along the coast path like Bucks Mills or Mouthmill Beach (note these often require a steeper walk down). Even larger beaches like Saunton Sands have quieter sections if you walk further from the main entrance.
What facilities like toilets and cafes are at the main beaches?
Major beaches like Westward Ho!, Saunton Sands, Croyde, and Woolacombe generally have good facilities including public toilets, cafes, restaurants or snack bars, and shops selling beach gear, especially near the main access points. Lifeguard services are typically available from May to September. Smaller coves may have limited or no facilities.
What is the pebble ridge at Westward Ho!?
The pebble ridge at Westward Ho! is a large, natural barrier of smooth grey pebbles and boulders, stretching for about two miles along the top of the beach. It acts as a significant sea defence, protecting the land behind it. It's a distinctive feature of the beach, separating it from Northam Burrows Country Park.
Why do I need to check tide times before visiting beaches near Bideford?
Tide times are crucial in North Devon. Low tide reveals vast sandy expanses (like at Westward Ho! or Saunton), ideal for walking and playing, but can mean a long walk to the water's edge. High tide can cover most of the sand on some beaches and is better for swimming closer to access points. Importantly, tides affect safety, potentially cutting off access to certain areas or creating stronger currents. Always check tide times before your visit.
