Appledore Devon
A charming North Devon fishing village famed for its vibrant, pastel-coloured cottages and rich maritime history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Best light for photos
Appledore Devon
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming North Devon fishing village famed for its vibrant, pastel-coloured cottages and rich maritime history.
"Appledore is a photographer's dream with its colourful cottages and scenic harbour views."
📸 Capture the Colourful Cottages
Wander Irsha Street for the most iconic shots. Early morning light is best!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Pubs
Many pubs in Appledore welcome dogs. The Seagate is a popular choice!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Irsha Street's Pastel Cottages
Irsha Street
Stroll down this iconic street, a kaleidoscope of brightly painted cottages adorned with flowers. A true visual delight!
Appledore Harbour Views
Appledore Harbour
Watch boats bobbing in the harbour and enjoy scenic views across the Torridge estuary to Instow.
Maritime History
North Devon Maritime Museum
Discover the rich seafaring past of this historic fishing village at the local museum.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Charm of Appledore's Colourful Streets
Dog-Friendly Delights and Coastal Walks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Colourful Cottages
Wander Irsha Street for the most iconic shots. Early morning light is best!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Pubs
Many pubs in Appledore welcome dogs. The Seagate is a popular choice!
🚶♀️ Explore the Quaint Streets
Get lost in the narrow, cobbled lanes for a true Appledore experience.
⛴️ Ferry to Instow
Take the scenic ferry across the estuary for a different perspective.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Colourful Cottages
Wander Irsha Street for the most iconic shots. Early morning light is best!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Pubs
Many pubs in Appledore welcome dogs. The Seagate is a popular choice!
🚶♀️ Explore the Quaint Streets
Get lost in the narrow, cobbled lanes for a true Appledore experience.
⛴️ Ferry to Instow
Take the scenic ferry across the estuary for a different perspective.
📚 Appledore Book Festival
If visiting in September, don't miss this renowned literary event!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Appledore is widely praised for its breathtakingly picturesque and colourful cottages, particularly along Irsha Street, creating a unique and charming atmosphere. Visitors love the village's rich maritime history, the scenic harbour views, and the welcoming, dog-friendly nature of its pubs and cafes. Some find parking can be a challenge during peak times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Appledore is accessible by car, with parking available in designated areas. The nearest train station is Barnstaple, from where you can take a bus or taxi to Appledore. The scenic Appledore Instow ferry also connects the two villages.
Driving within Appledore itself can be challenging due to its narrow, winding streets. It's best to park your car and explore the village on foot.
The Appledore Instow ferry is a charming and convenient way to travel between the two villages, offering lovely views of the estuary.
Yes, local bus services connect Appledore to nearby towns like Bideford and Barnstaple. Check local timetables for routes and schedules.
Absolutely! Appledore is perfect for a day trip, offering a charming escape with its colourful streets, harbour, and local shops.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Appledore is a village, so there are no general admission tickets required to wander its streets and enjoy its atmosphere.
As a village, Appledore is always open. However, individual shops, cafes, and attractions will have their own operating hours. It's best to check these directly if you have specific places in mind.
No, Irsha Street is a public street and is free to explore. It's a highlight for its picturesque cottages.
If you plan to stay overnight, booking accommodation in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season. Options include holiday cottages and B&Bs.
Costs will vary depending on your activities. Parking fees may apply, and you'll spend money on food, drinks, and any souvenirs or crafts you purchase.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the colourful cottages of Irsha Street, enjoy the harbour views, visit the North Devon Maritime Museum, and take a ferry to Instow. There are also lovely independent shops and cafes to discover.
Yes, Appledore is very walkable, with charming narrow streets and coastal paths nearby. Comfortable shoes are a must!
Appledore is incredibly photogenic, especially Irsha Street with its vibrant cottages and the harbour. Sunsets can also be stunning.
Appledore is known for its picturesque, brightly coloured fishermen's cottages, its maritime history, and its charming harbour.
Yes, crabbing is a popular activity in Appledore, particularly around the harbour. It's a fun activity for families.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Appledore has several excellent independent pubs and cafes. Market Street Kitchen is highly recommended for cream teas, and The Seagate offers great food with harbour views.
Many pubs in Appledore are dog-friendly, making it easy to enjoy a meal with your pet. The Seagate is a good option.
Given its coastal location, fresh seafood is a must-try. Also, don't miss a traditional Devon cream tea.
Most cafes and pubs will offer vegetarian options on their menus. It's always a good idea to check the menu or ask staff.
Yes, several eateries in Appledore offer takeaway options, perfect for a picnic by the harbour or a casual meal.
📸 📸 Photography
Irsha Street is a must for its colourful cottages. The harbour, with its boats and estuary views, also offers fantastic photographic opportunities.
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the charm of the cottages. Sunsets can also be spectacular over the estuary.
The vibrant, pastel-coloured cottages are a signature theme. Maritime scenes, harbour life, and coastal landscapes are also prominent.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the narrow streets and colourful facades. A standard zoom lens is versatile for harbour scenes and details.
Drone usage is subject to regulations. Always check local bylaws and aviation authority guidelines before flying a drone in residential or coastal areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many of the village's pubs and cafes are welcoming to families, and the Appledore Instow ferry provides a fun short boat trip. The North Devon Maritime Museum can also offer interesting insights into seafaring life, presented in an accessible way. Pack comfortable shoes for exploring the narrow streets.
🚶♀️ Solo Travellers
Solo travellers often appreciate the opportunity for quiet contemplation by the harbour or along the coastal paths. The village's charm provides a peaceful backdrop for reflection, and the presence of independent shops and eateries means you can easily find a cozy spot to relax and people-watch. Consider visiting during the Appledore Book Festival for a chance to connect with fellow literary enthusiasts.
🐶 Dog Owners
Beyond the village, the surrounding coastal paths offer fantastic opportunities for dog walks with stunning views. Remember to keep your dog on a lead where necessary, especially near the water and in areas with wildlife. The relaxed atmosphere of Appledore makes it a stress-free destination for you and your furry friend.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Appledore's Maritime Heritage
To truly immerse yourself in this heritage, a visit to the North Devon Maritime Museum is essential. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the mariners and shipbuilders who shaped Appledore. You can learn about traditional boat-building techniques, explore artefacts from shipwrecks, and understand the vital role the harbour played in trade and defence.
Beyond the museum, the very atmosphere of Appledore whispers tales of the sea. Imagine the bustling harbour in its heyday, the calls of fishermen, and the creak of wooden hulls. Even today, the working harbour continues to be a focal point, offering a tangible connection to its enduring maritime identity.
The Iconic Colourful Cottages of Appledore
The tradition of painting cottages in bright colours is thought to have originated from the village's maritime past. Some say it was to help sailors spot their homes from the sea, while others suggest it was simply a way to brighten up the narrow, often shaded streets. Whatever the reason, the result is a visually stunning village that feels unique and full of character.
When exploring, take your time to wander through the various lanes and alleys. Each turn can reveal a new delightful vista, a hidden courtyard, or a particularly charming cottage. It’s this immersive experience of discovery that makes Appledore so special, offering endless opportunities for memorable photos and a true sense of place.
Appledore as a Dog-Friendly Destination
Beyond the village amenities, the surrounding area offers plenty of opportunities for dog walking. The coastal paths provide scenic routes with beautiful views of the estuary and coastline. Remember to always check local signage regarding lead requirements, especially in areas with livestock or near the water's edge.
When planning your visit, it’s always a good idea to confirm a specific venue's dog policy beforehand, though you'll find that Appledore's community is generally very accommodating to well-behaved dogs. This makes it a stress-free and enjoyable destination for the whole family, including your four-legged members.
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