Living in Ilfracombe

Your guide to moving to Ilfracombe

Why Ilfracombe is a good place to live

If tranquility and picturesque beauty are what you're looking for, then moving to Ilfracombe might just be the choice for you. Life here offers a chance to live among some of the most stunning coastal scenery in the country, which is perfect for keen walkers and cyclists. The town itself manages to blend historical charm with modern amenities and has some great Victorian architecture to admire. Ilfracombe is also becoming known as a cultural and foodie destination. The streets are lined with art galleries, and when it comes to dining, you'll find everything from traditional British fare to adventurous modern cuisine. With its bustling quayside and popular Landmark Theatre, Ilfracombe is an engaging and beautiful place to settle.

What's Ilfracombe famous for?

Steeped in history and blessed with natural beauty, Ilfracombe is famous for a number of reasons. Perhaps most iconic are the Victorian Tunnels Beaches, which are tunnels hand-carved in the 19th century leading to secluded beaches and a tidal Victorian bathing pool. The town also holds a piece of modern art history with Damien Hirst’s ‘Verity’ statue standing high on the harbour, attracting art lovers and curious visitors alike. For those who love to explore, Ilfracombe is known for its wealth of hidden coves, perfect for a picnic or rock-pooling day out.

Things to do in Ilfracombe

Whether you're an avid explorer, a history buff, or a fan of the arts, there is so much to do in Ilfracombe. For starters, take a visit to the famous Tunnels Beaches for an experience steeped in Victorian history—don’t forget your bucket and spade! If you're into museums, you'll feel quite at home in the local Ilfracombe Museum with its interesting artefacts. For a little peace and quiet, take a stroll up to the chapel on the hill and enjoy the tranquility. For those keen to experience the local culture, stop by one of the local art galleries, explore the iconic ‘Verity’ statue by Damien Hirst, or enjoy a locally sourced meal with views of the harbour.

We have used a bespoke generative AI model to help us research and create our area guides. All of our content is reviewed, and edited where needed, by our trusted team of Zoopla content editors.