A perfect corner of England

North Devon & the Atlantic coast

This article is an insight into the Atlantic Coast and surrounding area where our shipyard at Appledore is based.

This whole region (total 850 sq.miles) is unique and largely untouched by modern day influences. Most of the coastline is made up of Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Exmoor National Park is a mere 25km away, where wild ponies, red deer and stag thrive in their natural habitat.

Lundy Island, in the Bristol Channel, can be easily seen from Appledore on most days. The island has an endangered puffin population and is surrounded by Britain's only Statutory Marine Reserve.

Walkers, cyclists, swimmers, surfers and anyone with a passion for the outdoors will find no end of opportunity in North Devon. Country pursuits, such as horse riding, fishing and shooting are well catered for in the local rural community.

The area is famous for sleepy villages and tranquil towns. Narrow streets, cobbled quays and hidden lanes go some way to describe the beauty, history and charm of the area.

That's not to say that North Devon is entirely steeped in the past. The major town is Barnstaple, offering contemporary high street stores, theatres, art and leisure centres, a traditional pannier market, everything, in fact, that one might expect of a thriving market town.

With a wealth of natural produce; fruit, vegetables, fish and livestock literally on the doorstep, North Devon is rediscovering its culinary roots and dining out has never been better.

For example, renowned artist, Damien Hurst, opened his new restaurant recently at 'Number 11', The Quay, Ilfracombe, (01271 868090) where top quality 'fusion' food and spectacular views across the harbour are on the menu.

Or why not try the Hoops Inn and Country Hotel at Clovelly (01237 451 222), an historic, thatched 13th century smugglers' inn, with a great range of real ales & hearty cooking.

Overall a great place for project teams to be based during their new build. www.northdevon.com www.northdevonmarketingbureau.co.uk www.northdevon.gov.uk Return to 'A perfect corner of England'