Combe Martin is a coastal village on the north Devon coast, located east of Ilfracombe and on the western edge of Exmoor National Park. It developed as a small mining and fishing settlement and later became a modest seaside destination. The village is known for its long high street, sheltered cove and access to surrounding coastal and inland landscapes.
About Combe Martin
The village follows a narrow valley that runs inland from the sea, creating an unusually long main street stretching for over a mile. At the seaward end, a small bay forms the focal point, with a beach and limited harbour-like structure used by small boats. The settlement is linear in layout, with shops, pubs and accommodation distributed along the main road rather than concentrated in a central square.
Combe Martin is set between steep wooded hills and cliffs, giving it a more enclosed character than neighbouring coastal towns. It has historical associations with silver mining, although little visible evidence remains. Nearby areas include Ilfracombe to the west and the Exmoor coastline to the east, with access to walking routes and more remote scenery.
Beaches in Combe Martin
The village and surrounding coastline offer a mix of small coves and more remote beaches, often affected by tides.
Combe Martin Beach – Sandy and shingle beach within the village, moderately sheltered, suitable for families, kayaking and general seaside use.
Wild Pear Beach – Secluded shingle cove east of the village, difficult access via steep paths, exposed to swell and rarely busy.
Broadsands Beach – Remote sandy and rocky cove within Exmoor, accessible on foot or by boat, limited facilities and strong tidal influence.
Newberry Beach – Small rocky and shingle beach west of the main bay, exposed and mainly used for quiet visits and coastal walking.
Things to Do in Combe Martin
The village provides access to coastal walking, small attractions and nearby natural areas.
South West Coast Path – Long-distance walking route passing through the village, with steep sections and views towards Exmoor and Ilfracombe.
Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park – Small family attraction inland, combining animal enclosures with themed exhibits and play areas.
Combe Martin Museum – Local museum covering village history, including mining heritage and maritime activity, located near the seafront.
Kayaking and Coasteering – Water-based activities along the rocky coastline, often organised locally, depending on weather and sea conditions.
Exmoor National Park Access – Direct access to Exmoor landscapes, with walking routes, valleys and viewpoints a short distance from the village.
Visiting Combe Martin
Combe Martin is reached via the A399 between Ilfracombe and Lynmouth, with narrow and winding sections in places. Parking is available near the seafront and along parts of the main street, though spaces are limited during busy periods. Public transport consists of bus services connecting to Ilfracombe and Barnstaple.
Facilities include small shops, pubs and accommodation spread along the village. Due to its linear layout, distances between services can be longer than expected, and walking involves gradual inclines.
The best time to visit is between late spring and early autumn when conditions are more suitable for coastal activities. During peak summer months, the beach and parking areas can become busy. The steep surrounding terrain and tidal nature of some beaches may limit access at certain times.