Situated in a beautiful and fertile valley on the western edge of Exmoor, Combe Martin lies at the centre of some of North Devon’s most spectacular scenery. The approach to Combe Martin, along the coastal road, offers the visitor glimpses of some of these stunning views. The two headlands of Great and Little Hangman dominate the scene which greets visitors to the village as they journey down to the pretty sheltered harbour below.
Combe Martin Seaside
The village of Combe Martin is a valley, spread along one main street, and at 2 miles long is said to be the longest village high street in the country. At the seaside the beach is a mixture of sand, pebbles and fascinating rocky shore, which at low tide extends into large areas of firm, clean sand. There are also a number of other secluded bays within a short walk of the village centre at Sandy Cove and Newberry Beach. Their rocky nature provides an added attraction, especially for children, in the form of numerous rock pools teeming with sea creatures. The beaches are all within the North Devon Voluntary Marine Conservation Area which stretches from Combe Martin to Woolacombe.
Combe Martin is an ideal centre for walking and many footpaths and circular walks radiate from the village. The South West Coast Path passes through Combe Martin on its 630 mile journey around the South West Peninsula, and the route also forms part of the Tarka Trail. Enjoy the spectacular and unspoilt coastal views, the majesty of the coastal heaths and the captivating archaeology of the area.
Combe Martin seaside from footpath
The main village is home to a fine selection of inns, cafes and restaurants, and a wide variety of shops and services located from the top of the high street down to the seaside. There are plenty of excellent accommodation providers including hotels, guesthouses, bed & breakfasts, self catering cottages and camping & caravan parks. A whole host of activities are on the doorstep including cycling, fishing, golfing, horse riding, surfing and walking, and of course relaxing by the sea! In fact Combe Martin is ideally situated as a central base to explore all of North Devon. In addition there are many annual events organised by the village community such as the week long Carnival with the parade as its highlight, the Hunting of the Earl of Rone, Strawberry Fayre and a Music Festival. Further details of all these can be found within this guide.
When you consider the combination of the wide variety of events and character of the village with its stunning coastline the phrase ‘Out of the world and into Combe Martin’ becomes so appropriate.
