Tunnels Beach
Bathers enjoying the autumn sunshine, September 2011, at Tunnels beach. Photograph taken from the coastal path above the beach.
By far the best beach in Ilfracombe. Worth the entry charge to visit at least once. PLEASE NOTE, the beach also operates as a wedding venue which means that, when a wedding is on many of the facilities are closed to the rest of the public.
Entrance to the Tunnels Beach off Runnacleave Road.
It costs less than a drink in a pub to visit the beach for the day. You can come and go as you please, and the beach has all the facilities you might need.
Even before you reach the beach itself there is the walk through the tunnels, which were cut out by Welsh miners to allow carriages to access the beaches. In Victorian times there were two seperate beaches so that the women could bathe segregated from the men. The beaches were opened in 1823.
There is a tidal pool here which is usable for six hours around each low tide. This is a protected area of sea which is unaffected by big waves, which makes it ideal for inflatable boats and loungers. Also it is generally a little warmer as it is a static body of shallow water that can be warmed up more rapidly by the sun. During the school summer holidays there is also lifeguard cover and this is officially the safest beach in North Devon.
No dogs are allowed on the beach at any time, although dogs are allowed in the other areas if properly controlled. The beach is also cleaned every day which means you are far less likely to find broken glass or other litter spoiling your enjoyment.
The Ilfracombe coastline is very rocky consisting mainly of slates and limestone, so golden sands are not a feature, but the main part of the beach here is at least more sandy than pebbly. The upside is that there are some fantastic rock pools well worth exploring.
There is a cafe here, although it is not especially cheap. If you are on a budget you can bring food, or go outside to find a cheaper cafe and return later in the day without additional charge.
There is also an outdoor children's play area (free) and an indoor soft play area (small charge) a beach shop selling everything from buckets and spades to gifts and souvenirs, and a range of branded products, as well as snacks and drinks.
WEDDING RECEPTIONS:
The tunnels beach is also available to hire as a luxury wedding venue, with stunning views across the sea, and every facility you would expect for a top quality wedding.
For more information about tunnels beaches visit their own website