About
Ilfracombe is a wonderful destination to explore with your dog, and its beaches offer a unique mix of natural beauty, rugged scenery, and dog-friendly spots. Here’s an overview of the town-located beaches at Ilfracombe: Wildersmouth Beach, Harbour Beach, Tunnels Beach, and Rapparee Cove.
Dog Access and Rules
Dogs are welcome year-round at Wildersmouth Beach, Harbour Beach and Rapparee Cove. At Tunnels Beach, dogs are allowed through the tunnels on a lead but not onto the beaches.
Due to the tides restricting the space available, Ilfracombe beaches can be busy, and you must keep your dog under close control and possibly on a lead.
Things To See & Do
Before we discuss each beach, one word of caution: they all disappear at high tide, so you will need to time your visit to get the most space.
Wildersmouth Beach is a rocky and pebbled beach right by the town centre. It is perfect for a walk and exploring the rock pools. As the tide goes out, you get some sand, and this is probably the less busy out of all these beaches.
Ilfracombe Harbour Beach is a small sandy beach amongst moored boats within the harbour.
Tunnels Beach has two beaches and a tidal pool, but unfortunately, it is privately managed and does not allow dogs on the beach. The tunnels were dug in Victorian times to access the two beaches, one for men and the other for women.
Rapparee Cove is a short walk along the coast path and down some steep steps. This small beach is tucked under the cliffs, creating a rocky, sheltered cove with some sand.
There are some other smaller beaches that become available at lower tides, like Cheyne Beach on the outside of the harbour wall and some smaller coves like Larkstone. These can be found while exploring the coast with your dog, but the main beaches people discuss are the four above.
Access and Facilities
All these beaches are easily accessible from Ilfracombe town centre, just a few minutes from the high street.
If you’re coming by car, there are nearby car parks in Ilfracombe where you can leave your car. Public transport options are also available, with regular bus services from nearby towns like Barnstaple.
Note that Tunnels Beach charges an entrance fee.
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