Why visit Clovelly? Clovelly is utterly charming. It looks untouched from the modern world with winding cobbled streets, whitewashed cottages and captivating views. An entire village can rarely be a tourist attraction. Here’s everything you need to know and why you should visit Clovelly village.
This blog post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase or sign up for anything from this website, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Is Clovelly worth a visit?
For some time, I have wanted to visit Clovelly England. Unbeknownst to me, I visited as a young child on a staycation with my parents and grandmother. My mother took great pleasure in telling me afterwards. This time I was old enough to appreciate the unique fishing village on the North Devon England coast – even if there was torrential rain.
Clovelly in Devon
Visiting Clovelly is a truly unique experience. There are many picturesque fishing villages in Devon and Cornwall. But what makes Clovelly different is that it is privately owned. So, who owns Clovelly village? The Clovelly Estate Company owns and manages the village today, run by John Rous. He is a descendant of the Hamlyn family, who have owned it since 1738. In fact, it has only been owned by three families since the 13th Century.
What is Clovelly famous for?
Clovelly is very historic. Once owned by the wife of William the Conqueror, it is listed in the Domesday Book. All Saints Church is the oldest building in Clovelly and dates back to the Norman period.
The village clings to a 400-foot cliff. The famous cobbled street, known as ‘Up-a-long’ or ‘Down-a-long’, was built from stones hauled up from the beach. For many years donkeys were the only form of access. Seeing the famous donkeys should be the top of the agenda when visiting. However, there are currently 14 of them, and their nationalities include English, Welsh, Irish and French.
Lastly, lots of filming has been done here over the years. You’ll see the village on The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society with Lily James and in 2008’s Sense and sensibility. You can also watch The Mrs Bradley Mysteries, The Long Chase and Jeeves and Wooster.
Travel guide to Clovelly North Devon
Surrounded by quaint dwellings and fisherman’s cottages is a steep hill leading to the harbour. The streets are cobbled, and you can only get around by walking. There is also a Land Rover service that goes to the car park from the Red Lion Pub at the bottom of the hill. However, this runs from Easter to October for an additional small charge.
Villagers have become inventive in getting their packages and shopping up and down Main Street, using wooden pallets or plastic crates like a sledge. You may see them outside each house, individually decorated. It was interesting to watch the postman juggling his full satchel of letters and dragging parcels behind him.
If you are unsteady on your feet, I wouldn’t recommend visiting Clovelly. High heels are also not a good idea. I wore trainers, and it was slippery in places because of the rain, so take it easy. How steep is Clovelly hill? It is famously 20% steep. The climb back up will literally take your breath away. But, admire the views as you get your breath back. Above all, visiting Clovelly is worth it.
Don’t Get Caught Short 💩
Tuff Pets Dog Poop Bags are premium, extra thick, and environmentally friendly, providing a reliable and eco-conscious solution for pet waste. These zero-waste, home-compostable poo bags allow pet owners to care for their pets and the planet simultaneously, making walkies so much easier.
Things to do in Clovelly
What to do in Clovelly village? There’s plenty to see and do when you are visiting. You should expect your visit to take between 3-4 hours, especially if you stop for a drink or food. Familiarise yourself before you visit with the Clovelly village map.
Clovelly Court Gardens
An absolute must-see is Clovelly Court Garden. With beautifully tended gardens full of fruits and vegetables supplied to the Red Lion Hotel in the village. They include apricots, peaches, nectarines, melons, cucumbers, peppers, aubergines and tomatoes. There are also fully restored Victorian greenhouses to admire.
Queen Victoria Fountain
Set into the wall at the top of the cobbled street is the Queen Victoria Fountain. It was designed by her cousin Countess Feodora Gleichen. It was erected in 1901 and has a bust of the monarch and carved swans.
All Saints Church
There’s a lot of history here. The church was begun in the 12th Century on an earlier timber building site. As the population grew, more space was needed, and another aisle was added in the 14th Century. An old story suggests that the lead was stripped from the roof during the Civil War to make bullets. It has many memorial brasses and memorials which will interest visitors to the village. St Peter’s Chapel is also nearby.
Charles Kingsley Museum
The writer Charles Kingsley came to Clovelly in 1831, aged 11. He would return when needing literary inspiration. His book ‘Westward Ho!’ is set in and around the village. Visitors began to come on holiday to North Devon to see the places he described. The museum is found near the New Inn, and here you can learn more about his life.
Fisherman’s Cottage Museum
Along from Charles’ Museum is the Fisherman’s Cottage. Here you can see how the fishermen lived in the 1930s. The parlour is authentically dressed, including furniture and religious engravings. It is also packed with fascinating old photographs.
Clovelly Harbour and Quay
Once you’ve navigated your way down the cobbles, you’ll arrive at the harbour. The village made money for centuries by fishing, boat building, trading limestone and Welsh coal. Clovelly was renowned for herring and mackerel. Even though fishing has declined, it is still very much part of village life. Today, lobsters and crabs are caught and sent away as far as France and Spain.
Clovelly Beach
The small pebble beach is on both sides of the narrow quay and is protected from the strongest waves by the old harbour wall. The area is particularly good for snorkelling. Along the shore is the Clovelly Waterfall. It is especially best after heavy rain, and it runs down the cliff face. There is a cave behind where legend says Merlin was born.
Lifeboat Station
The first lifeboat station was built in 1870 after a disastrous storm where many fishermen died, and boats were destroyed. It’s still operational today, and when a call comes in, members of the rescue team will drop what they’re doing and get out on the water. The lifeboat house is often open to visitors and helps raise money for the RNLI.
Boat Trips
Want to see the village from a different perspective? Many day trips and fishing experiences can be done from Clovelly. You can even visit Lundy Island, just 12 miles off the coast. There is nothing in between it and North America. When on the island, wander the cliffs to enjoy the scenery and sea views. Or you can do some snorkelling with the seals.
See the Donkeys
The donkeys were used to carry heavy loads for the villagers. They would carry herring, fuel, building materials, food, drink and the post. However, today the donkeys enjoy a more restful existence in their Victorian stable. They give children’s rides around their meadow or pose for photos in the street in the summer. In the winter, the local children will ride them.
South West Coast Path
Clovelly is on the South West Coast Path, the UK’s longest and best-loved trail. In total, it is 630 miles. You can enjoy a few different walks: Clovelly to Westward Ho! is a challenging walk, or Clovelly to Mouth Mill is a moderate walk.
Shopping
Browse the shops and indulge in some retail therapy – Clovelly Pottery, Clovelly Silk, Clovelly Soap and Donkey Shoe Shop. The unique, handmade products will make perfect presents or keepsakes. There’s also souvenirs, books and – my favourite – Clovelly fudge.
English Heritage
Even though I live in Cardiff, Wales, I love our English Heritage Membership. It gives us access to over 400 historic places. Plus, free parking. I’ve even taken advantage of some of the member’s rewards, such as discounted accommodation and money off meals. Our joint membership costs £9.53 a month. Family memberships start from £5.33 a month and allow up to 6 children in with an adult.
Close to Clovelly is Penhallam Manor, Launceston Castle, Okehampton Castle, Lydford Castle and Saxon Town and Tintagel Castle.
English Heritage places to visit in Devon
English Heritage Offer
English Heritage Deals: Get 15% off gift and annual memberships by using the promo code EHAFF25 at the checkout. It is valid until 30 January 2025. Making a single membership £54 per year and a couple’s membership £94.50. Get yours here.
Annual Events in Clovelly
If you visit at certain times of the year, you’ll also be able to get involved and enjoy the atmosphere of the annual events. Double-check the date before you visit if you don’t want to miss a particular festival.
March and April
Lentsherd (pronounced Lanshard) is an old Clovelly Shrove Tuesday customer to chase evil spirits away. Then during Easter, children can find chicks hidden in the village and win an Easter egg.
May
The Seaweed Festival is in May. It has many health and nutritional benefits. The quay kitchens cook up a surprising variety of dishes and sell seaweed products. There’s also live music and entertainment throughout the day.
July and August
July sees the Maritime Festival with yacht racing across the bay and street entertainment. In August, the Lifeboat Weekend is full of family fun with games, competitions, music, and lifeboat operational displays. There’s also the Gig Regatta, where Devon’s best teams go head to head in a day of competition.
September
In early September, there’s the Lobster and Crab Feast. (This is right up my street!) The day celebrates its famous, sustainably caught lobsters and crabs, with plenty of dig-in opportunities. Alongside cookery demonstrations, there’s live folk music and street theatre.
There’s also Apple Day in September. Feel free to bring your own bag of apples and see them being pressed and taste fresh juice. There are crafts and activities for children in the Visitor Centre. Plus a Farmers Market, cookery demonstrations and ciders on sale at the Red Lion.
October and November
We visited in October, and the houses along the cobbled street were dressed for the occasion. Ivan the Irresistible was fascinated by some knitted wreaths hung on the doors. The Halloween decorations and carved pumpkins were beautiful.
After that, in November is the Clovelly Herring Festival which celebrates the Silver Darlings. There is a Kipperland exhibition, delicious herring specialities, and beer, gin, and cider tastings. There’s live music, street entertainers, and children’s activities throughout the day.
December
At the beginning of December, the Christmas lights are turned on. A brass band leads the procession down to the harbour, and festive carols are sung along the way. And after the Carol Service, the lights are turned on. There are even fireworks to finish off the festivities. (It is not advised to bring dogs to this event)
Boxing Day BBQ is on the 26 December. With free entrance to the village on this day, you can make your way to the quay and enjoy live music and a hog roast. Warm-up with a mulled cider or a hot chocolate, if you prefer.
There is a fancy dress party on New Year’s Eve with food and drinks in the Red Lion. This must be pre-booked, and you can stay overnight.
Accommodation in Clovelly Devon | Hotels Clovelly
Can you stay in Clovelly village in England? The Red Lion Hotel can be found in the quay. There is a free car park near the hotel, so you don’t need to carry your bags down the steep hill – or back up. You’ll be spoilt with the beautiful views and service. There are a few dog-friendly rooms, so make sure you mention this when booking.
The other of the Clovelly hotels is the New Inn. It has been described as quaint and quirky but clean with excellent customer service. Found halfway down the cobbled street, the bedrooms have all the amenities you’ll need for a night away. There’s even a complimentary breakfast.
Many lodges, bed and breakfasts, chalets and caravan parks are near Clovelly village. Including Bideford Devon UK – 4 miles away, Woolsery – 2.7 miles away, and Hartland – 3.3 miles away. You can explore the different options on Last Minute.
Save on your trip to the beautiful Clovelly with Agoda voucher codes. Find a great deal on a hotel, apartment or cottage and explore this historic, picturesque village for less.
Skyes Holiday Cottages
The award-winning business has cottages across the UK, and the ones near Clovelly are beautiful. From cosy lodges with traditional woodburning stoves to contemporary accommodation with a hot tub. With all the amenities you could need, including parking, WiFi and many dog-friendly places, check out Sykes Holiday Cottages.
Parkdean Resorts
Just a 15-minute drive from Devon Clovelly is Bideford Bay. The caravan park – which also has lodges and chalets – is on a picturesque hillside with spectacular sea views. With an outdoor swimming pool, crazy golf, mini assault course, bar and restaurant.
Best Western Hotels
There are three Best Western Hotels in Devon; Exmouth Beach, Dartmouth and the Lord Haldon Country Hotel in Exeter. Every Best Western hotel is individual and crammed full of its own personality. From big comfy beds, fresh linen sheets and free WiFi. Some of the hotels in Manchester have parking which charges a small fee. Check out their special offers.
Haven Holidays
Devon Cliffs Holiday Park is in Sandy Bay in Exmouth. It is the biggest park in the Haven family but also a peaceful paradise. With acres of fun for all the family and an award-winning Blue Flag beach, you’ll be thrilled with your stay here. Both caravans and lodges are available here with plenty of leisure facilities and an indoor pool.
Britannia Hotels
Britannia Hotels in Devon are in Torquay and Illfracombe. The hotel offers excellent value for money with spacious en-suite bedrooms, TV’s and tea and coffee-making facilities. Complimentary WiFi sessions are included as well as low-cost parking. Even pets are allowed to stay for a small additional charge.
National Trust Holidays
You can stay in cottages, converted farmhouses and campsites in Devon with National Trust Holidays. With countryside views, you’ll have all the facilities and home comforts to hand. Including patio areas or gardens and BBQs to enjoy in warmer weather. Combe Cottage is just a 15-minute drive from Clovelly which can sleep up to four people. There’s also Peppercombe Coastguard Cottages and Brownsham Bothy.
National Trust Holiday Promo Code
Get 15% off selected cottages for bookings made and taken by 31 May 2024. Use discount code NTAF.
Cornwall Hideaways
Cornwall Hideaways have a massive selection of luxury holiday homes to make your next staycation perfect. Whether it’s a romantic getaway or a family holiday, there’s plenty to choose from. You’ll be able to find properties with the things on your tick list, including dog-friendly, sea views, walking routes or even a log fire. There are barn conversions, cottages, lofts and manor houses.
Plan a Trip with Expedia
Booking a hotel via Expedia is a seamless experience that offers convenience and choice at your fingertips. With just a few clicks, you can browse through a wide array of cosy boutique hotels to luxurious resorts, tailored to your preferences and budget. Compare prices, read reviews from fellow travellers, and explore amenities, ensuring you find the perfect place to stay for your trip.
Create your Itinerary
Using TripAdvisor when booking a hotel allows you to access a wealth of reviews and ratings from fellow travellers, helping you make an informed decision on where to stay, while also providing recommendations and insights on planning things to do during your trip.
Last Minute Deals
You can also plan with LastMinute.com. Stay at great hotels at a fraction of the price. When booking a hotel, utilising LastMinute enables you to secure fantastic deals on accommodations, ensuring a budget-friendly and spontaneous travel experience.
Food and Pubs in Clovelly
Bay Tree Café
When I visited, this is where I grabbed a pasty and coffee before heading back home. The Bay Tree Cafe is found in the Visitor Centre, and the views of the village and Bideford Bay are stunning. Apparently, on a good day, you can see the south coast of Wales. In the winter, you can warm up with a soup and roll, burger or hot bap. There are also toasted sandwiches, pasties, sausage rolls and paninis. Don’t forget to have a cream tea or toasted teacake.
New Inn
Superb for a few drinks, including home-brewed lagers, local ciders and gins. Food-wise there’s cream teas and sandwiches during the day. The evening meals changes regularly. Previous guests have praised the fish curry, lasagne, calamari, roast pork and lobster.
Harbour Restaurant
The Harbour Restaurant is at the Red Lion Clovelly. It is open for hotel residents for breakfast and for dinner. The fresh fish and seafood are literally delivered to the doorstep. The seasonal fruit, vegetables, and salad are from the Clovelly Court Gardens.
The Snug Bar
As the name suggests, it is a small bar. Alongside having a refreshing drink, you can mingle with villagers and listen to stories. This can also be found at the Red Lion Hotel.
The Cottage Tea Rooms
Positioned just off the cobbled street, the Cottage Tea Rooms has a great view of the sea. There’s a great selection of salads, sandwiches – including my favourite Devon crab sandwiches – cakes, and fluffy scones with clotted cream and jam.
Get 50% off food
So, did you know you can get 2 for 1 on meals or 50% off food with a Tastecard? There are independent and chain restaurants to choose from and various cuisines. Get a 2-month free trial here:
Take a Picnic
Devon Hampers, send the best of the South West to your front door. The cream tea and afternoon tea hampers include scones, clotted cream and jam. There are also cheese hampers, chocolate, cider and BBQ hampers.
Devon Hampers Promo Code
Get 5% off hampers or create your own. Order anything from a clotted cream tea for two or a large hamper full of goodies. There is no minimum order amount. Use DEVON5 at the checkout.
Map of the locations
Not sure where the locations are? They are all on this handy map. Zoom in or expand, and plan your route when visiting Clovelly.
How much to visit Clovelly?
There is an admission charge when you arrive at the Clovelly Visitor Centre. How much is Clovelly? In 2022: the Clovelly entrance fee is £8.25 per adult, £4.80 for children aged 7-16 or a family (2 adults, 2 children) for £22.25. You can also return free of charge within 7 days. Just show your ticket at the visitor’s centre.
There has been a charge to enter Clovelly Devon since 1924. A significant amount of the fee contributes to the maintenance of the village, including restoration work.
Can you go to Clovelly without paying?
Can you visit Clovelly for free? Apparently, you can, if you want a 5-mile walk along the South West Coast Path. Leave your car at Brownsham, a National Trust car park, and follow the path. It brings you out below the visitor’s centre and down the cobbled street.
Officially, there’s free entry to Clovelly on Boxing Day.
If you have pre-booked an evening meal, you can also enter for free.
Clovelly village car park
Clovelly parking is free and is included in the admission charge. There are a few different Clovelly village postcode. The one for the visitor centre is:
Sat Nav Clovelly postcode EX39 5TA
Where is Clovelly village
We travelled from Bude to Clovelly, which took about 30 minutes. It is easy to get to from Bideford, Barnstaple, Welcombe and Launceston.
Clovelly Village opening times
During the summer, the Clovelly opening times are 9am-6.30pm. During the winter months, it is at the village’s discretion and the shop owners. Best to check before visiting by calling 01237 431781.
Can you visit Clovelly in the evening?
After the Visitor Centre closes, there is a flat fee to park in the car park. So you can walk into the village for the evening. Alternatively, if you drive straight down the public road to the harbour in the evening. This is for those eating in the Red Lion pub.
Are dogs allowed in Clovelly Village?
Is Clovelly dog friendly? Absolutely! Our dog, Ivan, was made to feel very welcome. However, dogs must be kept on a lead. Owners should clean up after them. If you run out or have forgotten poo bags, pick them up in the visitor centre.
Who lives in Clovelly?
Around 300 people live in the village’s 83 cottages. No holiday homes are allowed, and people who wish to live there have to apply.
So do you want to be the first to read my latest blog posts? If you have enjoyed my things to do in Clovelly round-up, you can stay updated with my other travel features by signing up for my mailing list:
Follow me on social media: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
This looks like the cutest little village ever! Devon looks like a gorgeous part of the country. Not been since I was little! So much helpful information in this post to help plan a visit.
My pictures do not do it any justice, as it was pouring with rain. The views are incredible!
So glad it’s helped! You should definitely visit soon
We visited Clovelly in 2020 during lockdown. It was lovely being able to wander around without the crowds but I found the climb back up tiring.
The hill is a killer! Glad there’s lots of beautiful places to stop and catch your breath
I’ve never heard of Clovelly before- it sounds lovely!
So glad I can introduce you to a new place. Make sure you out it on your travel bucket list!
I haven’t been to Devon for years but it’s such a lovely place – one of those areas where you can’t quite believe it’s actually in the UK because its so nice!
I go to Devon and Cornwall every year, but I’m lucky the drive isbt too long. You’re right, you feel further away
I love Devon and really need to explore it more! It’s a lovely place. We used to go all the time when I was a child! I’ve not been to Clovelly though it looks stunning!
Corinne x
You have to go, make sure you put it on your travel list 🙂
What a gorgeous seaside beauty. I love how vintage it looks!
The pictures do not do justice to its beauty!
This is such an amazing article, with all the information you would ever need in one place. Now I need to arrange that visit…!
Yes! So glad I inspired you to visit!
Beautiful part of Devon thanks for the tips
No problem, you’re welcome
Ahhh we went here when my first child was really little, this just brought back so many lovely memories. I remember getting a cream tea there.
Cream teas are the best in this part of the world. Glad I could remind you of good times
What beautiful and very nice photos! Thank you very much for sharing such great pictures helpful information