Where to buy sea view homes along the North Devon coast
Devon offers an exceptional lifestyle with many stunning seaside locations so you may need guidance on where to buy sea view homes along the North Devon coast.
With rugged cliffs, golden beaches, and picturesque harbours, this dramatic stretch of England’s coastline holds a timeless appeal.
For prospective homebuyers, north Devon provides a wealth of opportunities, from charming villages to vibrant market towns, all framed by an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Here we look at some of the finest places along the North Devon coast to buy property whether as a primary residence, second home, or investment.
Croyde
Croyde is situated on north Devon’s rugged coastline. The village is home to one of the UK’s premier surfing beaches, now part of a designated World Surfing Reserve.
Croyde’s appeal extends beyond its waves.
A mix of charming cottages and contemporary homes makes it a sought-after location for both permanent residents and holiday homeowners.
There are daily conveniences in the village, with additional amenities available in nearby Braunton. These include schools, healthcare services, and an array of shops and eateries.
Nearby Baggy Point, a designated site of special scientific interest (SSSI), offers scenic walking trails and breathtaking coastal views.
For those seeking a lifestyle of outdoor adventure and community charm, Croyde stands out as an exceptional place to live.
Saunton
Located just two miles west of Braunton, Saunton is a picturesque village with an expansive sandy beach stretching approximately three miles along the north Devon coast.
A haven for water sports enthusiasts, Saunton beach offers ideal conditions for surfing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, bodyboarding, and swimming.
It is also dog-friendly throughout the year, making it a favourite for pet owners.
Saunton’s beach links to Braunton Burrows, a UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve, and the scenic Crow Point, offering breathtaking views. The area has even served as a backdrop for various films and music videos.
Locally, the Saunton Golf Club features two championship links courses. The elegant Saunton Sands Hotel offers dining options alongside the popular Beachside Café.
Regular bus services link Saunton to neighbouring villages and towns, while its charming church and nearby walking trails add to its appeal as a coastal retreat.
Woolacombe
Woolacombe is another picturesque village on north Devon’s coastline with award-winning beaches and stunning natural surroundings.
The primary attraction is its two-and-a-half-mile stretch of golden sand. This extends to Putsborough and Baggy Point and is complemented by the smaller Barricane and Combesgate beaches.
Surrounded by expansive National Trust land, Woolacombe offers miles of scenic footpaths with stunning views of the North Devon coast.
The village itself has a selection of independent shops, bars, restaurants, and cafés. Woolacombe also boasts a highly regarded primary school, a medical centre, and a variety of leisure facilities.
Saunton Sands Golf Club is nearby and the larger town of Ilfracombe, five miles away, provides additional amenities and attractions.
Mortehoe
Situated just a short distance from Woolacombe, Mortehoe is a charming village steeped in history and within a conservation area. It boasts several inviting tea rooms and traditional pubs.
There is also a 13th-century church and a heritage centre that delves into the region’s fascinating maritime past.
Mortehoe is an ideal base for exploring the dramatic North Devon coast.
There are numerous scenic walks, including a popular route to Morte Point, renowned for its rugged beauty and spectacular views.
To the north of the village lies Rockham Beach, a secluded spot accessible only on foot. Here visitors can enjoy a peaceful day at the base of a striking 100-foot cliff.
Ilfracombe
Ilfracombe’s harbour is one of its defining features, reflecting the town’s history as a Victorian-era fishing port and coal import hub.
Over time, Ilfracombe has evolved into a popular tourist destination. Its charming seafront has benefitted from significant investment in recent years.
The harbour at Ilfracombe remains a bustling focal point, with a steady flow of fishing boats, charter vessels, and leisure craft.
A short stroll from the harbour is the newly developed Water Sports Centre and Lime Kiln Café/Bar, offering a welcoming spot for a meal or evening drink.
This facility also hosts the local Gig Club and other water-based activities, with the town’s swimming pool conveniently located nearby.
Ilfracombe provides excellent local amenities, including schools for all age groups, a medical centre, a hospital, and supermarkets.
Beaches close to the town centre include the harbour beach, Larkstone, and Rapparee, while the renowned Tunnels Beaches, complete with a sea-water pool, are also within easy reach.
Woolacombe, Croyde, and Saunton are just a short drive away, as is the stunning Exmoor National Park, offering miles of scenic walking trails.
Combe Martin
Combe Martin is a lively seaside village of approximately 2,600 residents. The village is home to a variety of independent shops, a Co-op supermarket, a health centre, a post office, and several traditional pubs and restaurants.
The rocky cove bay at Combe Martin features two beaches, perfect for swimming, rock pooling, sailing, and fishing excursions.
Families are well served by a reputable primary school in the village, while secondary education is available nearby at the Church of England school in Ilfracombe. For independent schooling, West Buckland School in Barnstaple is a popular option.
Combe Martin’s location on the edge of Exmoor National Park provides endless opportunities for walking and exploring stunning landscapes, while the Blue Flag beaches of Woolacombe, Croyde, and Saunton are nearby.
Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the two championship-standard links courses at Saunton. Barnstaple, north Devon’s main commercial hub, is just 11 miles away.
Lynton and Lynmouth
Lynton is a picturesque town perched on top of a steep hill.
It is connected to the charming village of Lynmouth below by the historic Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway, the world’s highest and steepest fully water-powered funicular.
This Victorian marvel offers amazing views as it transports passengers between the two locales.
Lynton sits high above Glen Lyn Gorge and serves as a gateway to a striking segment of the South West Coast Path, leading to the awe-inspiring Valley of the Rocks. This area is renowned for its dramatic cliffs and panoramic sea vistas.
In contrast, Lynmouth is at the confluence of the East and West Lyn rivers, where they meet the sea.
Lynmouth centres around a quaint harbour and rocky beach, making it a popular spot for kayaking enthusiasts.
Both Lynton and Lynmouth boast a variety of dining options, including gastropubs, cafés, and takeaways, and a mix of quality gift shops, antique emporiums, and convenience stores.
Lynmouth caters more to visitors, while Lynton provides essential services such as bakeries, small supermarkets, and greengrocers.
For a broader selection of shops, the nearby towns of Ilfracombe and Minehead are easily accessible.
Property in Devon
Devon offers a variety of stunning seaside locations and the North Devon coast is no exception. If you would like assistance with your search, Garrington Property Finders are here to help.
With expert local knowledge and close relationships with a network of industry professionals, we can uncover opportunities that may not be visible on the open market.
Contact Garrington today to discuss your plans without obligation.
