
Northam Burrows Country Park
A unique coastal landscape of grassy plains, salt marshes, and sand dunes, famed for its pebble ridge and ephemeral art.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos

Northam Burrows Country Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique coastal landscape of grassy plains, salt marshes, and sand dunes, famed for its pebble ridge and ephemeral art.
"Stunning vistas, golden sand, a spectacular pebble ridge and easy parking."

🚶♀️ Wear comfortable shoes
Terrain varies from sand to marsh; sturdy footwear is essential for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
🧥 Pack for wind and rain
Coastal weather can change quickly; a waterproof and windproof jacket is recommended. :cloudwithrain:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Pebble Ridge
Connecting Northam Burrows to Westward Ho! Beach
A spectacular natural barrier of smooth pebbles, offering stunning views and a unique walking experience.

Sandymere Beach Art
Sandymere Beach
Discover ephemeral art created from natural materials, showcasing the beauty of the coastline and inspiring creativity.

Coastal Plain and Salt Marsh
Throughout the park
Explore diverse habitats, from grassy plains to tidal salt marshes, teeming with wildlife and offering breathtaking vistas.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Navigating Northam Burrows
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wear comfortable shoes
Terrain varies from sand to marsh; sturdy footwear is essential for exploring.
:athletic_shoe:🧥 Pack for wind and rain
Coastal weather can change quickly; a waterproof and windproof jacket is recommended.
:cloudwithrain:🐶 Dog-friendly exploration
A great spot for dogs, but be mindful of wildlife and other visitors.
:dog:🎨 Appreciate land art
Look out for beautiful ephemeral art made from natural materials.
:art:Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wear comfortable shoes
Terrain varies from sand to marsh; sturdy footwear is essential for exploring.
:athletic_shoe:🧥 Pack for wind and rain
Coastal weather can change quickly; a waterproof and windproof jacket is recommended.
:cloudwithrain:🐶 Dog-friendly exploration
A great spot for dogs, but be mindful of wildlife and other visitors.
:dog:🎨 Appreciate land art
Look out for beautiful ephemeral art made from natural materials.
:art:☕ Visit the cafe
A welcome pitstop for coffee and cake, especially after a walk.
:coffee:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Northam Burrows for its stunning natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and the unique pebble ridge. The helpfulness of parking staff and the presence of a good cafe are frequently highlighted positives. Some minor drawbacks include the potential for blustery winds and the busy nature of the park during peak summer months.
"Stunning vistas, Golden sand, a spectacular pebble ridge and easy parking. There's also a very good café. RNLI keep everything safe too."
Shaun Pollard
"Beautiful place. The diversity of nature is breathtaking. Car parking staff are so helpful"
Tara Powell
"Very nice place to visit with or without a furry friend. Great views out to sea or across the estuary to Burton Burrows. There is a lovely cafe near to the main car park. Look out for the golf balls while walking. While walking you can walk from Westward Ho! all the way to Northam and Appledore, on land or on the beach when the tide is out."
Bruce Stacey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Northam Burrows Country Park is accessible by car, with a large car park located behind the sea defence stones. The toll booth is closed from October to Easter, but you can still access the car park via a small track.
It's also reachable on foot or by bike from nearby Westward Ho!, Northam, and Appledore, especially at low tide.While direct public transport to the park itself might be limited, you can reach nearby Westward Ho! by bus and then enjoy a scenic walk to Northam Burrows. Check local bus schedules for routes serving the Westward Ho! area.
There is a large car park available, which is particularly useful during the summer months when it serves as a main access point to Westward Ho! beach.
Parking staff are noted as being helpful.Yes, cycling is a great way to explore Northam Burrows and the surrounding coastline. There are paths that allow for cycling, and it's a pleasant route from nearby towns.
The park offers relatively flat terrain in many areas, making it accessible for wheelchair users. However, some paths may be sandy or uneven, so checking specific accessibility routes beforehand is advisable.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the park itself is a natural landscape, there may be parking charges. The toll booth is closed seasonally, but access is generally maintained.
Northam Burrows Country Park is a natural landscape and is generally accessible at all times. However, facilities like the cafe may have specific operating hours.
No, tickets are not typically required for entry to Northam Burrows Country Park as it is an open natural area. Parking fees may apply.
Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment and wildlife. During peak times, it can get busy, especially as it's a gateway to Westward Ho! beach.
The cafe is believed to still be open, though it's best to check current operating status, especially outside of the main summer season.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Northam Burrows is a haven for diverse wildlife, including birds in its salt marshes and coastal plains. Water germander surveys are conducted here, highlighting its ecological importance.
You might also spot sheep and horses grazing.Popular activities include walking, dog walking, exploring the pebble ridge, and enjoying the coastal scenery. It's also a base for surf lessons at nearby Westward Ho!
Nature art and photography are also enjoyed here.Absolutely! The park offers stunning vistas, diverse landscapes, and opportunities to capture unique natural art. The long morning shadows and coastal light are particularly photogenic.
Yes, you can walk from Northam Burrows to Westward Ho! Beach, especially at low tide. The pebble ridge connects the two areas and offers a unique walking experience.
There is a visitor centre that offers a welcome pitstop for coffee and cake.
A cafe is also located near the main car park.🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located near the main car park that serves coffee and cake, making it a welcome pitstop.
Absolutely! Northam Burrows is a beautiful natural area perfect for a picnic. Remember to take all your rubbish with you to help keep the park clean.
The cafe is known for offering coffee and cake, providing a pleasant break during your visit.
The park is adjacent to Westward Ho!, which offers a range of dining options from casual cafes to restaurants.
While the cafe offers refreshments, for a wider variety of takeaway options, you might explore the nearby village of Westward Ho!
📸 📸 Photography
The entire park offers stunning photographic opportunities, from the vast coastal plains and salt marshes to the unique pebble ridge. The interplay of light and shadow, especially in the early morning, is captivating.
Nature photography, landscape photography, and capturing ephemeral art are very popular. The diverse habitats also attract wildlife photographers.
Early mornings offer beautiful soft light and long shadows across the dunes and paths.
Golden hour in the late afternoon can also provide stunning light for coastal shots.Keep an eye out for the unique land art installations, the diverse birdlife in the salt marshes, the dramatic pebble ridge, and the expansive sea views.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions or capturing long exposures of the sea.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Owners
🎨 Art and Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Diverse Habitats
The park's natural beauty is further enhanced by its location, offering views across the estuary to Burton Burrows and out to sea. This diverse environment makes it a fascinating place for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking a tranquil escape. The presence of both grazing animals like sheep and horses alongside the natural habitats showcases a unique blend of managed and wild landscapes.
Art and Creativity at the Coast
These artistic expressions not only beautify the park but also encourage visitors to engage with their surroundings in a more mindful way. The temporary nature of the art serves as a reminder of the ever-changing coastal environment. Many visitors find inspiration in these creations, with some even participating in creating their own art during their visit.
Activities and Recreation
For those who enjoy a more relaxed pace, the park provides excellent opportunities for walking and exploring. The relatively flat terrain makes it accessible for many, and the scenic routes offer beautiful views of the sea and estuary. The presence of a cafe and visitor centre adds to the convenience, providing places to rest and refuel.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit