Distance from Smytham: 17 miles
Travel time: 35 minutes by car/ 1hr20 by bus
Perfect for: Couples, Individuals, Families & Dogs
Best weather: Dry
Immersed in maritime history and timeless charm, the privately owned fishing village of Clovelly is one of North Devon’s most beautiful destinations, within an easy distance from Smytham Holiday Park. Visiting Clovelly is like stepping back in time, with its steep, cobbled, vehicle-free streets winding down to a picturesque 14th-century harbour. Whitewashed cottages adorned with colourful flowers line the streets, while the gentle sounds of the sea complete the village’s tranquil atmosphere.
As you wander through this historic village, you’ll discover a delightful mix of independent shops, craft galleries, and welcoming tea rooms, offering everything from handmade souvenirs to local Devon made treats. Many of the shops feature artisanal products inspired by the sea and surrounding countryside, such as The Clovelly Soap Co., making them perfect for picking up a unique keepsake to remember your visit or a gift for a loved one. The village still celebrates its maritime heritage with its charming traditional ways — goods are transported by hand, sledges, or the village’s famous donkeys, which once pulled heavy loads up and down the cobbled streets. Visitors can meet the Clovelly donkeys in their stables and learn about their history in the Clovelly Visitor Centre, where exhibits also inform guests about the village’s long-standing fishing traditions and the families who have lived here for generations.
Clovelly is not just about history; it’s a lively community that hosts a range of seasonal events and festivals. Highlights include the Clovelly Maritime Festival, which celebrates the village’s seafaring past, the Seaweed Festival, showcasing sustainable uses of coastal resources, and the popular Lobster and Crab Feast, perfect for seafood lovers. During the festive season, the village comes alive with the Clovelly Christmas Lights, creating a enchanted atmosphere that draws visitors from across North Devon.
For nature lovers, Clovelly’s position on the South West Coast Path offers spectacular views of the coastline, the cliffs, and the wide expanse of the sea. Picturesque walks from the village provide opportunities to spot wildlife, enjoy the fresh sea air, or simply soak up the tranquil environment.
Whether you’re interested in history, coastal walks, family-friendly events, or simply experiencing one of North Devon’s most photogenic villages, Clovelly is an idyllic destination for a day trip from Smytham Holiday Park. With its delightful streets, striking scenery, and friendly atmosphere, Clovelly is a truly unforgettable place to visit and a highlight of any holiday in North Devon.
Acessibility: Clovelly features steep cobbled streets that are uneven. No vehicles can enter the village. Enttance to the village is from the Visitors Centre at the top of the cliff and then you walk down the streets to the harbour.
There is a landrover that can give you a lift back up the cliff via an alternative route for an additional charge.
