Along the rugged coastline of North Devon, Clovelly is a picturesque fishing village steeped in history and charm. Within its cobbled streets and quaint cottages tumbling down towards the sea, there are exciting places to eat in Clovelly. From traditional pub fare to gourmet seafood dishes, there’s something to suit every palate.
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Visiting Clovelly
Clovelly is utterly charming. It looks untouched by the outside world with winding cobbled streets, whitewashed cottages and captivating views. The entire village is a tourist attraction. However, what makes Clovelly different is that it is privately owned.
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. It is famously 20% steep. The climb back up will literally take your breath away. For many years, the Clovelly donkeys were the only form of access. Now, there is a Land Rover service that goes to the car park from the Red Lion Pub at the bottom of the hill. This runs from Easter to October for an additional small charge.
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.
Check out this Guide to Clovelly for things to do and the annual and upcoming events.
Places To Eat Clovelly
Explore the Clovelly Estate before dining in one of the pubs, restaurants, or cafes that promise to tantalise the taste buds and leave a lasting impression. It’s recommended that you book a table for food, especially in high season.
The Red Lion Clovelly
The Red Lion Hotel is a historic inn dating back to the 18th century that exudes warmth and character, offering visitors a chance to savour traditional British fare with a contemporary twist. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty Sunday roast or fresh fish caught from nearby waters, from succulent lobster to fresh crab to plump scallops. There are vegetarian and vegan options on the menu, too. The seasonal fruit, vegetables, and salad are from the Clovelly Court Gardens.
The Harbour Restaurant is in the quay and promises a dining experience that celebrates the region’s rich culinary heritage. The Snug and Harbour Bar is the ideal spot to unwind with locals over a drink after you’ve finished eating.
🐾 Dog friendly
New Inn Clovelly
Depending on which way you are walking, you will stumble upon The New Inn halfway down or halfway up. It’s superb for a few drinks, including home-brewed lagers, local ciders and gins. This charming pub in Clovelly is where visitors and locals come together to enjoy a pint and hearty pub grub. During the day, there are sandwiches, baguettes, and small plates like soup, crab cakes, and sticky ribs. In the evening, classic fish and chips and gourmet burgers are made with locally sourced ingredients. Previous guests have praised the fish curry, lasagne, calamari, roast pork and lobster.
🐾 Dog friendly
The Cottage Tea Rooms
For those with a sweet tooth, The Cottage Tea Rooms offers a respite from exploring the village. From freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and jam to indulgent cakes and pastries to savoury sandwiches, pasties, and quiches, this quaint tearoom captures the essence of old-world charm, inviting guests to relax and indulge in life’s simple pleasures. On a sunny day, enjoy the stunning views from the Secret Garden.
🐾 Dogs are welcome in the garden area but not inside
Clovelly Visitor Centre
The Bay Tree Cafe in the visitor centre offers artisanal coffee blends, a selection of teas and homemade baked goods take centre stage. It provides a cosy retreat for weary travellers – especially if you’ve climbed back up the hill. With views of the North Devon coast and Bideford Bay (and on a clear day, you can even see South Wales), it’s a comfortable place to rehydrate and refresh. Make sure you get some Clovelly Fudge before you leave – it’s lush!
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.
🐾 Dog friendly
Devon Hampers
Food, drink, and the West Country are close to my heart. Devon Hampers sends 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. They’re ideal for enjoying along the South West Coast Path.
Get 10% off hampers or create your own. Order anything from a clotted cream tea for two or a large hamper full of goodies. Use DEVON10 at the checkout on orders over £50.
North Devon
When visiting Devon North, you can experience its rugged coastline, golden sandy beaches, and quaint villages. Here are reviews and things to do when you get there:
The Complete Foodies Guide to Ilfracombe
Find a diverse range of food that showcases the region’s rich heritage and local produce.
All of the Dog-Friendly Pubs in Ilfracombe
Who wants a pint or bite to eat without their furry best friend in tow? I do!
Things to do in Ilfracombe for Couples
Inject some fun into your couples’ retreat with various exciting activities; you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Places to Stay in Clovelly
If you know when you’d like to travel, try to book in advance and as soon as possible. Prices rise the closer you get to the travel date. However, there is a vast array to accommodate all budgets.
The Red Lion Hotel is located on 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.
Skyes Holiday Cottages
The award-winning business has cottages across the UK, and the ones near Clovelly are beautiful. They range 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, TVs, and tea and coffee-making facilities. Complimentary Wi-Fi sessions and low-cost parking are also included. Pets are allowed to stay for a small additional charge.
National Trust Holidays
With National Trust Holidays, you can stay in cottages, converted farmhouses, and campsites in Devon. 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, which can sleep up to four people, is just a 15-minute drive from Clovelly. 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.
Or, get 35% off when booking 10 nights or more in Cornwall, Devon, Wales and Northern Ireland. Bookings are for stays between 1 October and 30 November 2024 and 1 January to 28 February 2025. Use discount code 10NAF.
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 and 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. This information helps you make an informed decision on where to stay and provides 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.
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