Driving Distance: About 11 minutes (4.27 miles) | Sleeps: Up to 8 | Pet friendly? Yes
What to expect: Bideford Bay in Cornwall is a picturesque hilltop holiday park offering stunning sea views, a range of family-friendly activities, and easy access to nearby beaches, including a Blue Flag beach, ensuring a memorable stay for all.
Who will love these lodges? Families, kids, and couples will adore Bideford Bay for its blend of relaxation and recreation. With an adventure playground, crazy golf, and both indoor and outdoor heated pools, there’s something for everyone. The park’s tranquil setting also makes it a serene escape for couples.
What can you do here? Anything onsite? Onsite, you can enjoy a splash on the waterslide, engage in various sports on the multi-sports court, or indulge in a meal at The Manor House Bar and Restaurant. An exciting programme of entertainment awaits in the evenings, ensuring fun for all ages.
What’s nearby? The charming fishing village of Clovelly is just a short drive away. Westward Ho! beach, popular with surfers and sunbathers, is also nearby. For more adventure, theme parks, gardens, and museums are within reach, offering a diverse range of activities for all interests.
Accommodation options: Bideford Bay offers a variety of chalets catering to different group sizes, including the Tavistock Chalet for 6, Woodtown Chalet for 8, Langtree Chalet for 4, Littleham Chalet for 6, and the Westward Lodge for 4. With pet-friendly options available, your furry friends can join the holiday fun too.
Driving Distance: About 18 minutes (11.84 miles) | Sleeps: Up to 6 | Pet friendly? No
What to expect: Pentire Coastal Holiday Park is nestled near the seaside town of Bude, offering a peaceful retreat with access to beautiful beaches, historic towns, and a range of accommodations tailored to your needs.
Who will love these lodges? This park is ideal for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty. With an adventure play park for children and a dog walking field, it’s perfect for families and dog owners looking for a scenic escape.
What can you do here? Anything onsite? While the park itself is a haven of peace, the local area is brimming with activities, from enjoying the local seafood at Cornish pubs and restaurants to exploring the quaint towns of Port Isaac and Boscastle.
What’s nearby? The popular town of Bude is just a short drive away, offering sandy beaches, charming shops, and a range of facilities. The area is also home to a variety of attractions, including surfing, kayaking, and horse-riding opportunities.
Accommodation options: The park offers Sanctuary Lodges with decking, providing a serene environment for relaxation. These lodges come in 2 and 3-bedroom configurations, accommodating up to 6 guests, and are designed for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Driving Distance: About 20 minutes (11.89 miles) | Sleeps: Up to 7 | Pet friendly? No
What to expect: Penstowe Park Holiday Lodges offers a variety of accommodation styles set in a beautiful parkland, some with hot tubs, providing the perfect base to explore Cornwall’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Who will love these lodges? With its diverse accommodation options, Penstowe Park is great for families, groups, and couples. The park’s setting makes it ideal for nature lovers and those looking for a peaceful getaway.
What can you do here? Anything onsite? The park itself is a quiet retreat, but the nearby village of Kilkhampton offers pubs, shops, and takeaways. The surrounding area is perfect for outdoor activities like surfing, bodyboarding, and exploring the rugged coastline.
What’s nearby? The coastal resort of Bude is close by, with its sandy beaches, shops, and Bude Castle. The park’s location also provides easy access to a range of outdoor activities, ensuring there’s never a dull moment.
Accommodation options: Penstowe Park offers a selection of lodges and cottages, such as the Manor Lodge Premier with a hot tub and the pet-friendly Spanish Villa, catering to different preferences and group sizes.
Driving Distance: About 23 minutes (13.86 miles) | Sleeps: Up to 6 | Pet friendly? Yes
What to expect: Sandymouth Holiday Resort is a Go Active collection member offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation near the stunning Sandymouth Bay, with a plethora of activities and entertainment options.
Who will love these lodges? This resort is a paradise for active families and groups seeking fun and excitement. With a pirate ship play area, indoor pool, and sports court, it’s a hub of activity for all ages.
What can you do here? Anything onsite? Dive into the indoor heated pool, dine at The Bistro, or enjoy the evening entertainment. For the adventurous, there are activities like mini jet skis, archery, and Body Zorbs.
What’s nearby? Sandymouth Bay’s beach is within easy reach, and the local area offers surfing, bodyboarding, and kayaking. The resort is also close to Bude, known for its beaches and coastal charm.
Accommodation options: Sandymouth Holiday Resort provides a range of accommodation, including the luxurious Atlantic View Lodge with sea views and the pet-friendly Pencarrow 2 View, ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone.
What to do on a family or couple’s hot tub break in Clovelly
Welcome to the enchanting village of Clovelly, a jewel nestled in the heart of North Devon, part of the stunning South West England. This historic fishing village is renowned for its cobbled, traffic-free streets, whitewashed cottages, and the breathtaking views of the Bristol Channel. Clovelly offers a tranquil escape for families and couples alike, with a diverse range of activities that cater to both relaxation and adventure seekers.
Sightseeing in Clovelly
Clovelly is a visual feast for the eyes, with its unique charm and picturesque setting. The village itself is a living museum, where visitors can step back in time and experience life as it once was. From the working harbour to the terraced gardens, there’s plenty to explore. The visitor centre provides a perfect starting point for your adventure, offering insights into the village’s history and heritage.
Top 5 attractions you have to see in Clovelly
When visiting Clovelly, there are several must-see attractions that encapsulate the essence of this historic village:
The Clovelly Court Gardens
Stroll through the lush, well-maintained Victorian walled gardens of Clovelly Court. Here, you can admire the vibrant flower beds, productive vegetable plots, and the polytunnel that supplies the village with fresh produce. Estimated pricing: Free with entry to the village. For more information, visit their official website.
The Clovelly Harbour and Quay
The heart of Clovelly, the 14th-century quay, is still bustling with fishing activities. Watch local fishermen bring in their daily catch or simply enjoy the serene views. Estimated pricing: Free with entry to the village.
The Clovelly Donkeys
A visit to Clovelly wouldn’t be complete without seeing the famous donkeys, traditionally used to transport goods up and down the steep cobbled streets. Estimated pricing: Free to see, small fee for rides.
The Kingsley Museum
Learn about Charles Kingsley, the writer who lived in Clovelly and was inspired by its beauty. The museum is a tribute to his life and work. Estimated pricing: Free with entry to the village.
The Clovelly Visitor Centre
Begin your visit here to learn about the village’s history through informative displays and a short film. Estimated pricing: Adult entry to the village, which includes the Visitor Centre, is around £7.95. Check their official website for the most current pricing and opening times.
Good to Know…
| 1. Clovelly is car-free; prepare for a walk on cobbled streets. |
| 2. Wear comfortable shoes for the steep inclines. |
| 3. Village entry fee includes access to multiple attractions. |
| 4. Accommodations range from inns to self-catering cottages. |
| 5. Many local shops sell unique, handcrafted goods. |
| 6. The Red Lion Harbour Restaurant offers fresh seafood with a view. |
| 7. Fishing and boat trips can be arranged from the harbour. |
| 8. The Clovelly Lobster and Crab Feast in September is a culinary highlight. |
| 9. The South West Coast Path runs through Clovelly, ideal for walkers. |
| 10. Check the village’s event calendar for seasonal festivities. |
5 detailed Clovelly visitor FAQs
Q: What accommodation options are available in Clovelly?
A: Clovelly offers a variety of accommodation, from the historic New Inn hotel in the heart of the village to charming self-catering cottages with stunning sea views. For a luxurious experience, consider staying in a lodge with a hot tub nearby.
Q: Are there dining options within Clovelly?
A: Yes, there are several delightful dining options, including the New Inn restaurant, the Red Lion Harbour Restaurant, and a few cafes offering local Devonshire treats.
Q: Is Clovelly suitable for visitors with mobility issues?
A: Due to its steep cobbled streets, Clovelly can be challenging for those with mobility issues. However, the Land Rover service offers rides up and down the village for a small fee.
Q: Can I bring my dog to Clovelly?
A: Dogs are welcome in Clovelly and can accompany you throughout the village, provided they are kept on a lead.
Q: What are the best times to visit Clovelly?
A: Clovelly is beautiful year-round, but the summer months offer the warmest weather and the most village activities. Autumn and spring are quieter but equally charming with seasonal beauty.
Some helpful links
For more information on planning your visit, accommodation, and events, please explore the following resources:
Whether you’re soaking in the hot tub under the stars after a day of exploration or wandering the cobbled streets hand in hand, Clovelly is a destination that promises to create lasting memories for couples and families alike.
