Bicclescombe Park
A charming Victorian park in Ilfracombe, featuring a boating lake, playground, gardens, and woodland walks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Bicclescombe Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming Victorian park in Ilfracombe, featuring a boating lake, playground, gardens, and woodland walks.
"A small but lovely park that's well worth a visit with a children's play area and tea rooms."
☕ Cafe Delights
Grab a coffee, snack, or ice cream at the park cafe. Great for a break during your visit.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfy shoes for exploring the winding paths and gardens. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Boating Lake & Water Features
Central area of the park
Enjoy the serene boating lake, reflections, and the charming waterwheel. A peaceful spot for relaxation.
Children's Playground
Near the cafe
A fantastic play area that keeps kids entertained for hours. Perfect for family fun.
Woodland Walks & Gardens
Throughout the park
Wander through paths lined with diverse flowers, streams, and woodland. A nature lover's delight.
Tennis Courts
Designated courts
Engage in a friendly match or practice your swing on the park's tennis courts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Park Amenities & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☕ Cafe Delights
Grab a coffee, snack, or ice cream at the park cafe. Great for a break during your visit. 
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfy shoes for exploring the winding paths and gardens. :athletic_shoe:
🎾 Tennis Court Booking
Book tennis courts in advance if you plan to play. :admission_tickets:
📸 Photo Opportunities
The park offers beautiful scenery for photography, especially the lakes and gardens. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Cafe Delights
Grab a coffee, snack, or ice cream at the park cafe. Great for a break during your visit.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfy shoes for exploring the winding paths and gardens. :athletic_shoe:
🎾 Tennis Court Booking
Book tennis courts in advance if you plan to play. :admission_tickets:
📸 Photo Opportunities
The park offers beautiful scenery for photography, especially the lakes and gardens. :camerawithflash:
🚗 Limited Parking
Parking can be limited; consider street parking or arriving early. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bicclescombe Park is widely praised as a beautiful Victorian park with lovely gardens, a great play area, and pleasant walking paths. Visitors appreciate the serene boating lake and the convenience of the on-site cafe. While parking can be limited, the overall experience is highly positive, making it a recommended spot for families and those seeking a peaceful escape.
"Bicclescombe Park has a fab play area, tennis courts, model boating lake and a cafe (meals, drinks, snacks and ice cream available). Paths wind through woodland, along streams and are lined with gorgeous flowers.
Well worth a visit if you’re in the area! 🌺"
Steph Gore
"Great park with tennis courts and some nice water features, a water wheel and tea rooms"
Stephen Beale
"A small but lovely park that once used to have a small zoo and paddle boats on the lake, unfortunately those days have gone.
It’s still a nice place to visit with a children only play area, tennis courts, duck pond and streams running through it.
The Tea rooms are very good with plenty of outdoor seating.
Parking is limited but there are two areas and street parking is usually available."
Phillip Jones
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bicclescombe Park is located about a mile south of Ilfracombe town center. You can walk, cycle, or drive. Some visitors mention it's a pleasant stroll from the harbor area.
Yes, there are parking areas within the park, but they can be limited, especially during peak times. Street parking is often available nearby.
While specific bus routes aren't detailed in the provided content, Ilfracombe is served by local buses. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
The park is generally dog-friendly, with many visitors seen walking their dogs. However, always check local signage for any specific leash rules or restricted areas.
The postcode for Bicclescombe Park is EX34 8EU.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Bicclescombe Park is a public park and generally free to enter. There are no admission fees mentioned for general access.
No, the children's playground is free to use and does not require booking. It's a popular spot, so it can get busy.
While the park is free to enter, there might be a charge or booking system for the tennis courts. It's recommended to check with the local Ilfracombe Tennis Club or park authorities for current policies.
As a public park, Bicclescombe Park is typically open from dawn till dusk. The cafe and specific facilities may have their own operating hours.
Yes, the park is open year-round. While some facilities like the cafe might have reduced hours in winter, the grounds are accessible for walks.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy leisurely walks, explore the gardens, visit the children's playground, play tennis, relax by the boating lake, and visit the cafe.
Absolutely! The park features a fantastic children's playground and plenty of open space for kids to run around. The gentle paths are also good for strollers.
Visitors can spot various bird species around the lakes and streams. The park's diverse flora also attracts insects and other small wildlife.
Restroom facilities are typically available, often located near the cafe and playground area. It's best to check on-site for exact locations.
The park has a mix of paved paths and natural trails. While many paths are gentle and suitable for walking, some woodland areas might be uneven.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located within the park that serves meals, drinks, snacks, and ice cream. It's a popular spot for visitors. +1
The cafe offers a range of options including light meals, snacks, and ice cream, making it convenient for a break during your visit.
While specific picnic tables aren't highlighted, the park's open spaces and benches provide opportunities for picnicking.
Yes, visitors are generally welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy in the park's open areas. Remember to dispose of litter responsibly.
Yes, the cafe at Bicclescombe Park offers plenty of outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying your refreshments in the fresh air.
📸 📸 Photography
The boating lake with its reflections, the waterwheel, the diverse gardens, and the streams offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Yes, the park's variety of flora, water features, and birdlife make it a great location for nature photography.
You can take photos of the playground, but always be mindful of other visitors' privacy, especially children.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming might require permission. Always be respectful of others.
Late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' offers beautiful lighting for photography. Mornings can also be lovely and less crowded.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The park's open spaces and gentle paths are perfect for little ones to explore safely. Don't forget to visit the cafe for ice cream and snacks to keep energy levels high. +1 Consider bringing a ball or frisbee for extra fun in the open areas. 🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
The park's gardens provide a lovely backdrop for a romantic walk or a moment of personal reflection. 🎾 Active Visitors
The park also offers ample space for jogging or a brisk walk, with the boating lake loop being a popular route. The varied terrain provides a good workout for those who enjoy exploring on foot.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Natural Beauty of Bicclescombe Park
Visitors often rave about the reflections in the boating lake, making it a picturesque spot for a leisurely stroll or quiet contemplation. The park's gardens are a riot of color throughout the seasons, with specific mentions of magnolia trees putting on a show. It's a place where you can truly connect with nature, away from the bustle of the town.The park's layout encourages exploration, with paths winding through woodland and alongside water features. You'll find a variety of plants and flowers, contributing to the park's charm and appeal for nature lovers.
Family Fun and Recreation at Bicclescombe Park
+1 This well-equipped play area is a major draw for younger visitors, ensuring they have plenty of opportunities for fun and adventure. Beyond the playground, the park offers space for children to run and play freely. The gentle paths are also suitable for strollers, making it accessible for families with very young children.In addition to the playground, the park boasts tennis courts for those seeking a bit of active recreation.
While the park used to feature paddle boats and a small zoo, its current offerings still provide ample enjoyment. The cafe on-site is perfect for refueling with snacks and ice cream, making it easy to spend a whole afternoon here. +1Community Events and Park Life
The park also plays a role in local initiatives, such as the 'Ilfracombe in Bloom' group working to beautify the entrance and surrounding areas. Furthermore, the park fosters a sense of inclusion through events like 'Gentle Walks,' which are designed for participants of all abilities to enjoy the park's environment and social aspects.
These activities highlight how Bicclescombe Park is more than just green space; it's a cherished community asset that brings people together for recreation, celebration, and well-being.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit