Car Hire Clovelly

Perched on a steep hillside overlooking the Bristol Channel, Clovelly is like nowhere else you’ve ever been. This privately owned village in North Devon feels like it’s been frozen in time, with its cobbled streets, whitewashed cottages, and complete absence of cars. It’s home to just about 450 people but draws visitors from far and wide who come to experience its unique charm.

If you’re driving, you’ll wind your way through narrow Devon lanes before reaching the visitor centre at the top of the hill. From there, it’s all on foot – and I do mean all. The main street is so steep that goods are transported by sledge! Weather-wise, Clovelly gets the full force of the Atlantic, so it can be brisk. Pack for all seasons, even in summer, and definitely bring sturdy shoes for those cobbles. The village is beautiful year-round, but it really comes alive in summer when the flowers are in bloom and the harbour is bustling.

Attractions In Clovelly

Clovelly enchants with its steep cobbled streets and offers a variety of coastal and historical attractions.

The Clovelly Waterfall

Let’s start with something truly spectacular – the Clovelly Waterfall. This natural wonder tumbles down the cliffs right into the harbour. It’s a bit of a hidden gem, often missed by visitors who don’t venture to the western end of the village. The best view is from the harbour wall, where you can see the water cascading down the rocks. It’s particularly impressive after heavy rain.

Clovelly High Street

The heart of Clovelly is its High Street, a steep cobbled lane that winds its way down to the harbour. This isn’t your average high street – there are no chain stores here, just quaint cottages, local craft shops, and the occasional donkey stable (yes, really – donkeys used to be the main form of transport here). Take your time wandering down, popping into the shops and admiring the flower-bedecked cottages. Just remember, what goes down must come up! Also, Combe Martin is in vicinity, so pay it a visit if you’re planing on longer road trip.

The Milky Way Adventure Park

If you’re visiting with kids (or you’re a big kid yourself), The Milky Way Adventure Park is a must-visit. It’s a short drive from Clovelly, near Bideford, and it’s packed with rides and attractions. From roller coasters to indoor play areas, there’s something for all ages. The park also has some great shows, including birds of prey demonstrations.

Hartland Abbey

Just a few miles west of Clovelly, you’ll find Hartland Abbey. This beautiful historic house and garden is still lived in by the family that has owned it for generations. The house is fascinating, with rooms spanning several centuries of decor, but for me, the real star is the grounds. The woodland walks are lovely, and there’s even a private beach you can visit. It’s a favourite day out for visitors staying in Welcombe.

Clovelly Village

I know we’ve talked about bits of Clovelly already, but the village as a whole deserves its own mention. There’s something magical about wandering these ancient streets, popping into the local pub for a pint, or watching the fishermen at work in the harbour. Don’t miss the Kingsley Museum, which tells the story of Charles Kingsley, author of “The Water Babies”, who lived here as a child. If you’re up for a quick drive, you could even venture to Lifton.

Clovelly Court Gardens

At the top of the village, you’ll find Clovelly Court Gardens. These restored Victorian gardens are a joy to explore, with their old stone walls and glasshouses full of fruit and vegetables. The views over the Bristol Channel are spectacular too. Gardening enthusiasts from Barnstaple often make a special trip to see the gardens in full bloom.

Fisherman’s Cottage

For a glimpse into Clovelly’s past, visit the Fisherman’s Cottage. This tiny house has been restored to show how a fisherman and his family would have lived in the 1930s. It’s a fascinating insight into a way of life that has largely disappeared. The cottage is popular with history buffs visiting from Holsworthy.

It’s a great base for exploring this part of North Devon too. You’re not far from the bustling market town of Hatherleigh, or the moorland landscapes around Okehampton.