Braunton, Devon

Nestled in the heart of North Devon, Braunton is one of the area’s most charming and historic villages, offering the perfect base from which to explore the stunning coastline and countryside. As the largest village in England, Braunton combines traditional Devon character with a vibrant atmosphere, excellent local amenities, and easy access to some of the UK’s most spectacular beaches.

Just a short drive away are the golden sands of Saunton Sands and Croyde Bay. Saunton’s expansive beach stretches for miles and is ideal for long coastal walks, family days by the sea, and watersports enthusiasts. Nearby Croyde Bay is renowned for its world-class surfing conditions and picturesque village setting. For nature lovers, Braunton Burrows, a UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve, offers one of the largest sand dune systems in the country, with an abundance of wildlife and scenic walking trails.

The village itself boasts an excellent selection of independent shops, cafés, restaurants, traditional pubs, and local amenities. Visitors can enjoy everything from relaxed coffee mornings and artisan bakeries to award-winning eateries showcasing the best of Devon produce.

Ideally situated for exploring North Devon, Braunton provides easy access to a wealth of attractions and activities. The bustling harbour town of Ilfracombe, the picturesque fishing village of Appledore, and the market town of Barnstaple are all within easy reach. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy surfing, paddleboarding, cycling along the Tarka Trail, horse riding, golf, and coastal hiking along the Southwest Coast Path. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or quality time with family and friends, Braunton offers something for everyone throughout the year.

Surfing & Swimming

Saunton Sands

Learn to surf with Walking on Waves on the golden sands of Saunton Beach, one of North Devon’s most renowned surf destinations, with expert tuition suitable for beginners and experienced surfers alike. Saunton beach offers rocky coves providing plenty of opportunities for exploration, from crabbing in rock pools and collecting shells at low tide to relaxing on the sandy beach watched over by lifeguards during the summer months.

Croyde Beach

Golden sand that stretches across a wide bay, ideal for sunbathing, beach games, and sandcastles with Large dunes behind the beach, giving it a wild, natural feel. There are rock pools at both ends of the bay, great for exploring marine life at low tide.

Powerful Atlantic waves, making it one of the UK’s best surfing beaches and a favourite with experienced surfers and bodyboarders.

Spectacular coastal scenery, especially towards Baggy Point, where coastal paths offer panoramic views over the sea and surrounding cliffs From the beach you’ll see rolling countryside meeting the coast, and on a sunny day the water can appear surprisingly turquoise. The nearby village of Croyde adds to the charm with its traditional cottages, surf shops, cafés, and relaxed seaside atmosphere.

If you’re walking from Saunton, you’ll get one of the best views of Croyde from the top of Saunton Down as the bay opens up below you.

Putsborough Beach

Putsborough is broader, quieter, and more open, with a sense of space that many visitors find relaxing.

The beach is a vast stretch of golden sand forming the southern end of the long Woolacombe shoreline. At low tide, the sand seems to go on forever, creating a huge natural playground for walking, beach games, and paddling. Behind the beach are grassy dunes and hills, while the dramatic headland of Baggy Point rises to the south.

Less crowded than Croyde and often quieter than Woolacombe.

Sheltered by Baggy Point, making it less exposed to south-westerly winds. Excellent for swimming, bodyboarding, and beginner-to-intermediate surfing. Beautiful rock pools at the edges of the beach, especially around low tide.

On a sunny evening, Putsborough is famous for its spectacular sunsets. The combination of wide sands, clean Atlantic water, and fewer crowds gives it a more peaceful, “away from it all” feel than many popular UK beaches.

For those who prefer calmer waters, enjoy a swim at the iconic Tunnels Beaches sea pool in Ilfracombe, a unique tidal bathing pool carved into the coastline and perfect for a refreshing dip.

Walking

Braunton has some of the easy access to some of North Devon’s most spectacular walking routes. From the village, head out towards Braunton Burrows, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with miles of dunes, wildlife and coastal scenery to explore. It’s a fantastic place for a leisurely stroll, especially at sunset.

For a longer walk, the South West Coast Path offers breathtaking views of the coastline. Following the path towards Saunton Sands and Croyde Bay, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to stop and watch the surfers or simply take in the scenery. A coffee or hot chocolate from one of the beach cafés makes a perfect midway reward.

If I fancy exploring further afield, a walk around Baggy Point near Croyde is always worthwhile. The dramatic clifftop views stretch across the Atlantic and provide some of the best photo opportunities in the area.

For a change of scenery, visit the nearby woodlands and countryside around Exmoor National Park. During autumn, the changing colours create stunning landscapes, while the peaceful trails offer a completely different experience from the coast. Along the way, there are plenty of cosy cafés and traditional pubs where you can stop for homemade cakes or a well-earned lunch.

Foodies

If you’re staying in Braunton, you’re in a great spot for some of North Devon’s best eating out. You cannot stay without visiting Squires Fish & Chip Restaurant which offers more than just their award winning fish and chips.

Also Right in the village, SQ Bar & Restaurant is a popular choice for modern European dishes in a relaxed, stylish setting with a roof terrace — ideal for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Just outside Braunton in Georgeham, both The Rock Inn and The Kings Arms are well-loved for hearty pub food and a proper village pub feel.

Down the road in Croyde, The Thatch is a go-to spot for relaxed pub dining, while nearby Saunton Sands is home to Beachside Grill, perfect for casual meals right by the beach.

For something a bit different, Braunton also has great independent options like Siam Bistro for Thai food, Trattoria for Italian and Wild Thyme, a small, much-loved café-style restaurant known for excellent brunch and lunches.

Day Tips

Lynton & Lynmouth (40–50 mins)

One of the most memorable day trips from Braunton, A Victorian cliff railway linking the twin villages. There is the stunning Valley of Rocks with coastal cliffs and wild goats with riverside walks to Watersmeet Independent cafés and tearooms

Often called “Little Switzerland” because of its dramatic landscape.

Clovelly A bit further, but very unique. (1 Hour)

Famous steep cobbled street down to a historic harbour with no cars in the village

It’s a picture-perfect fishing village atmosphere