Clovelly — Attraction in Torridge District

We just had an amazing holiday in Clovelly, picture perfect and good for the soul. I would definitely recommend it as a holiday destination, but you need to be aware of the challenges! The main street is very steep cobbles, if you have any walking troubles then think VERY carefully before you commit, we saw a few people who were really struggling. Sensible shoes are a must NO high heels of any type (no not even small wedges unless you want to break an ankle, I mean it!), good sturdy walking boots are best. The visitor center was a little off putting when we first arrived as it seemed very commercial, HUGE, and a little tacky, but just pass through it and ignore, as the shops run by the locals just down the first slope are lovely. There are some really nice walks that branch off from the top of the village, through some stunning woodland with glorious sea views that look down on the harbour (the hobby drive walk). If you brave the descent into the village then you will be rewarded with a gorgeously unspoiled little fishing village, probably one of the only ones not to be ruined by weekenders buying up properties and leaving them empty. The complete lack of cars here is a total dream, all you can hear in the evenings is birdsong and the sea. Total magic. I think you definitely get the best of this place with an overnight stay. There are a lot of tourists during the day, but come 5pm the visitor centre closes and it is incredibly peaceful. Do not expect a sandy beach - this is not a place to lay out a towel and top up your tan!! This is a harbour village, so when the tide goes out there are beautiful rocks and pebbles, but not sand. You have been warned! This is a boots on type deal people, but no less special for that. Along the beach is a small waterfall that is very pretty, and we saw a few folks out swimming and kayaking who were having a great time. Best for those who like long walks, historic buildings, and a good pint.

Be aware that there are a lot of cats in the village, if you have a dog that will give chase then be smart and keep them well under control. I saw one poor man nearly dragged over the cobbles by his dogs chasing a surprise moggy. Good leash...

Would give no stars if possible.

We live local to Clovelly and were denied access to the village despite supporting the local businesses in the off season. I was approached by Mr Rous himself and felt very vulnerable, his manner was very passive aggressive and even after I explained that we were there for a quick picnic and a drink at the Red Lion, we were told to head back to the visitor centre and pay for a family season ticket. A staff member of Clovelly leaving in his van tried to intervene and provide confirmation of our local status to allow us access but again this was dismissed by Mr Rous. We have historic links to the volunteers that have worked on the Clovelly estate, for example driving the Land Rovers and even they were saddened when we mentioned Mr Rous' conduct towards a young family and their 3 small children.

We then asked what we should do if our children are visiting the estate to meet up with school friends and we were told we would have to, again, go through the visitor centre and effectively check in and out after our visit! I was absolutely appalled by the way we were greeted and when we questioned Mr Rous' behaviour towards our young family despite our support of the estate during the Winter months, that was brushed aside as "we only buy a few drinks" when we visit.

Whilst I appreciate and understand tourism has it's benefits for the rare, privately owned estates such as Clovelly, extorting and ostracizing the local people that support the village come rain or shine perhaps isn't the best way to raise much needed funds. Perhaps a catchment area would be a good idea? I'm sure many of us would be willing to even pay a small small annual fee for the privilege to enable free movement in and out of the village, much in the way Northam Burrows does for it's local residents.

Such a shame as this visit has ruined what has always been a special place for us as a family, and left me feeling very reluctant to visit in the future for fear of running in to Mr Rous as he clearly did not want the custom of the...

Lovingly preserved and presented piece of history.

There’s great balance between history and commerce here. The exteriors of the late 19th / early 20th century buildings are nicely preserved albeit with security cameras placed discretely by many front doors. Overall the atmosphere is cosy though with cheerful & chatty locals and shop assistants.

Explore the side ‘streets’ to find a couple of small but informative museums detailing the history of the village and its inhabitants. The many photos on display show how little has changed in over 100 years.

If you’re up for a walk across the rocky beach, there’s a waterfall just along from the harbour. Perfect for selfies.

Very dog friendly. Poo bins are situated in the upper slopes. Dogs are welcome almost everywhere. Ice cream for dogs is for sale in the ‘old post office’. Our food fussy pup loved it and it didn’t upset her sensitive up tummy either.

Check out the donkey stables, pottery and amazing soap shop above the village and just below the main entrance. The soap shop was crammed with beautifully made and presented things. Not too pricey either.

Admission prices are excellent value for money compared to many other attractions. £21.30 for two adults & one child (and dog) which includes parking, entrance fee and admission to the gardens just up the road from the village. Food and drink prices everywhere from the gift shop at the top to the pub in the harbour are reasonable too.

Only a couple of caveats:

The authentic cobblestone walkways are very steep and become slippery when wet. Even when dry, they’re quite a workout for the legs though a vehicle service runs from the top down to the harbour and back, if needed

We visited on a rare sunny and dry February day and the place felt busy with maybe a couple of hundred visitors. One shop owner told us the streets are packed with 1000’s in Summer so time your...