Ilfracombe - Devon Coastal Charm

Ilfracombe enjoys a setting of rare beauty amidst the breath-taking scenery of North Devon. Framed by precipitous cliffs, elegant townhouses, a delightful harbour and a promenade strung with twinkling lights, it's a place that might seem preserved in a bygone age. But look beneath the surface and you'll find there's another side to Ilfracombe - it's a favourite hang-out for the artist Damien Hirst, who added the controversial statue, 'Verity' to the entrance to the harbour, looking out over the Bristol Channel. It's also now home to some high end eateries. Ilfracombe is definately worth a visit and this 4-night break offers the opportunity to explore this charming corner of North Devon.2023 - Ilfracombe
Day 1 - After joining your holiday coach, head southwest to your hotel in Ilfracombe, stopping for refreshments en-route, for 4 nights of dinner, bed & breakfast.

Day 2 - 4 - At leisure in Ilfracombe with one included excursion and one optional excursion. There is entertainment in the hotel on some evenings.

INCLUDED EXCURSION:

Lynton, Lynmouth & Arlington Court
Take a drive through the corner of the scenic Exmoor National Park to the twin towns of Lynton and Lynmouth. Made popular by Victorian holidaymakers, and often referred to as 'Little Switzerland', these two pretty little villages are connected by an incredible cliff railway (return fare included). The unique Victorian water powered funicular cliff lift (disabled access is limited) travels up and down some 500 ft, with stunning views, and allows you to explore both Lynton and Lynmouth with its pretty harbour. Then head to Arlington Court, an unexpected jewel on the edge of Exmoor and a family home for more than 500 years. This intriguing Regency house is set in a picturesque garden and is also home to the National Trust Carriage Museum, whic boasts an impressive collection of horse-drawn vehicles

OPTIONAL EXCURSION:

Barnstaple & Bideford
North Devon's premier town, Barnstaple, offers colourful history, great restaurants, fabulous shopping and independent boutique shops. Visit the Pannier Market where local food producers sell their delicious delicacies. Scenic Bideford slopes upward from its broad river tide and has hardly changed in the last 150 years.

Day 5 - Return homewards stopping off for refreshments en-route to arrive back at your local joining points early to mid-evening.The Carlton Hotel
This charming independently run hotel is located in the heart of Ilfracombe, just a few minutes' stroll away from the harbour, glorious local beaches, shops, cafes and art galleries. The distinctive blue building dates back to Victorian times which has been sympathetically restored over the past few years. The hotel is highly regarded with a 2* rating - which does not do justice to its high standard!

Contemporary guestrooms are finished to a very high specification with stylish furnishings, TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. There is a pleasant ground floor bar as well as a small cosy library-style lounge. The restaurant serves locally sourced produce.

There is a lift.

Hotels
• The Carlton Hotel, Ilfracombe (Ilfracombe) - View Information