Wildersmouth Beach Ilfracombe
A unique shingle beach in Ilfracombe, North Devon, known for its dramatic rocky outcrops and stunning sunset views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Wildersmouth Beach Ilfracombe
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique shingle beach in Ilfracombe, North Devon, known for its dramatic rocky outcrops and stunning sunset views.
"Amazing rocky beach with a shop frontage with lots of shops and an amusement arcade."
🐾 Dog-Friendly Shores
Great for dogs! The shingle/pebble mix means less sand on your furry friend. :dog:
🚗 Parking Nearby
Pay and display parking is available close to the beach. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wildersmouth Bay
Ilfracombe
A unique shingle beach with dramatic rocky outcrops, perfect for exploring and enjoying coastal views.
Tunnels Beaches
Ilfracombe
Victorian-era hand-carved tunnels lead to a secluded beach and tidal pool – a truly unique experience.
Verity Sculpture
Ilfracombe Pier
Damien Hirst's striking 66-foot tall bronze sculpture of a pregnant woman, a modern landmark.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Water Quality Check
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Shores
Great for dogs! The shingle/pebble mix means less sand on your furry friend. :dog:
🚗 Parking Nearby
Pay and display parking is available close to the beach. :car:
🚶♀️ Explore the Tunnels
Don't miss the hand-carved tunnels leading to a hidden beach and tidal pool. :flashlight:
🌅 Sunset Views
Wildersmouth Beach offers stunning sunset vistas. :sunriseovermountains:
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Shores
Great for dogs! The shingle/pebble mix means less sand on your furry friend. :dog:
🚗 Parking Nearby
Pay and display parking is available close to the beach. :car:
🚶♀️ Explore the Tunnels
Don't miss the hand-carved tunnels leading to a hidden beach and tidal pool. :flashlight:
🌅 Sunset Views
Wildersmouth Beach offers stunning sunset vistas. :sunriseovermountains:
👟 Beach Footwear
The 'sand' is fine shingle, so comfortable shoes are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Wildersmouth Beach is a charming town beach with a unique shingle and pebble texture, making it great for dogs and coastal walks. Visitors appreciate the nearby amenities, stunning sunset views, and the adjacent Tunnels Beaches. However, some reviews note concerns about water quality for swimming.
"Very chilled and pretty town beach,signs say don't swim due to poor water quality, however and I also checked Surfers against sewage live map which has a red cross! Super hot so I dipped without getting my head in, a few people were swimming but I wouldn't risk it. Clean it up water companies!"
Anna R
"Lovely place,
You can park on near to beach in pay and display area. Lots of dog walkers about. Lot of shops in front of beach. Water was nice and clean. Kids loved it."
AJMAL KAZMI
"Beautiful sunsets, dog friendly"
Dicky
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wildersmouth Beach is located in Ilfracombe, North Devon. You can access it from Capstone Parade or inland St James Place. There's a fairly steep but short path leading down to the beach. Parking is available in a pay and display area nearby.
Yes, there is pay and display parking available close to the beach, making it convenient for visitors.
Absolutely! Wildersmouth Beach is conveniently located near the town centre, with shops and amenities right in front of it.
Ilfracombe is served by bus routes. You can also arrive by the Paddle Steamer Waverley during the summer months for a scenic journey.
The beach itself is a shingle and pebble mix. Access from Capstone Parade involves a steep path, so consider this if mobility is a concern.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Wildersmouth Beach is a public beach and does not require an entrance fee. However, parking nearby is pay and display.
Yes, Tunnels Beaches has an admission fee to access the tunnels and the beach area. It's a unique experience worth the small cost.
Tunnels Beaches typically operates during daylight hours, but it's best to check their specific opening times before your visit, especially during different seasons.
Children often enjoy Wildersmouth Beach, especially at low tide when there are rock pools to explore. However, supervise them closely due to the shingle and potential for waves.
Yes, Damien Hirst's Verity sculpture on Ilfracombe Pier is free to view and admire.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The beach is primarily composed of fine grey shingle and pebbles, rather than traditional sand. It's great for dogs as they don't get covered in sand.
While some visitors swim, there have been concerns raised about water quality. It's advisable to check local advisories before swimming.
You'll find the Landmark Theatre, a tribute monument to Jonathan Edwards, and crazy golf nearby. The harbour and Tunnels Beaches are also within easy reach.
Absolutely! The unique shingle, rocky outcrops, and potential for beautiful sunsets make it a fantastic spot for photography.
There are toilets and a small snack bar shop available near Tunnels Beaches, which is adjacent to Wildersmouth.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are shops and amenities directly in front of the beach, and Ilfracombe town centre offers various dining options.
There is a small snack bar and shop available near Tunnels Beaches, offering refreshments.
Many cafes and pubs in Ilfracombe welcome dogs, especially those with outdoor seating. It's always a good idea to check beforehand.
Ilfracombe offers a range of dining, from traditional pubs and fish and chips to more contemporary restaurants, often featuring local seafood.
TikTok mentions a rooftop bar at a Wetherspoons in Ilfracombe, offering views and proximity to the beach.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique shingle texture, the dramatic rocky formations, and the expansive sea views. The sunsets here are particularly photogenic.
Late afternoons and evenings offer beautiful golden hour light, perfect for capturing stunning sunset shots. Early mornings can also be serene.
Yes, the Landmark Theatre is adjacent to the beach, and the Verity sculpture on Ilfracombe Pier is a must-capture landmark nearby.
The hand-carved tunnels themselves offer unique photographic opportunities with their rustic charm and historical feel.
It's ideal for landscape, seascape, and even wedding photography, given its dramatic coastal setting and unique features.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Owners
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Ilfracombe's Unique Beaches
For a truly unforgettable experience, the nearby Tunnels Beaches are a must-visit. These hand-carved Victorian tunnels offer a fascinating journey to a secluded beach and a tidal pool that forms a serene lake when the tide recedes. Accessing these tunnels provides a sense of historical discovery, making it more than just a beach visit. Remember to check the tide times for the best experience at both Wildersmouth and Tunnels Beaches.
Beyond these two, Ilfracombe offers other beaches like Larkstone and Rapperee, allowing for a '4 beach challenge' for the adventurous visitor. Each offers a slightly different coastal vibe, contributing to Ilfracombe's charm as a seaside destination.
The Charm of Ilfracombe's Harbour and Landmarks
Adjacent to Wildersmouth Beach, the Landmark Theatre provides a cultural venue, while nearby, you can find a tribute monument to Olympic athlete Jonathan Edwards. For those seeking a bit of fun, crazy golf is also available in the vicinity. These landmarks and attractions, combined with the natural beauty of the coastline, create a rich and varied experience for visitors to Ilfracombe.
Planning Your Visit: Practicalities and Tips
For a unique experience, the Tunnels Beaches offer access through hand-carved tunnels, but there is an admission fee. Parking is available in pay-and-display areas. Ilfracombe itself has a range of amenities, including shops, cafes, and even a rooftop bar for those looking for a drink with a view. The town is also accessible by bus and, seasonally, by the Paddle Steamer Waverley.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit