Living in North Devon is like stepping into a postcard. With its rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and picturesque villages, this corner of England offers a lifestyle that combines natural beauty, community spirit, and a slower pace. Let’s dive into what makes North Devon so special.
Living the North Devon Dream: a guide to rural bliss
Finding Your Perfect Spot
Where to Start?
Before you pack your bags, consider your priorities. Are you looking for a bustling town, a quiet village, or a coastal retreat? Write down everything you want from your new life, including future needs. Imagine yourself in ten years—what would you want then?
The pandemic has reshaped our priorities. Remote work is now the norm, and North Devon offers an escape from city life. Here’s why:
- Work-Life Balance: Say goodbye to long commutes and hello to fresh air. Productivity can thrive outside the city.
- Cost of living: Costs are lower here, and you’ll find hipster coffee houses and excellent restaurants.
- Surfing Heaven: North Devon is has some of the best surfing beaches in the country
Harbour Villages
- Ilfracombe: A charming harbor town with art galleries, a picturesque harbor, and the famous Damien Hirst sculpture “Verity.”
- Combe Martin: Nestled in a valley, Combe Martin offers a mix of coastal walks and village charm.
- Appledore: A historic fishing village with colorful cottages and a maritime heritage.
Hidden Gems
- Lynton and Lynmouth: Perched on the cliffs, these twin villages offer breathtaking views of the Bristol Channel. Explore the Valley of Rocks or take the funicular railway between the two villages.
- Clovelly: A traffic-free village with cobbled streets leading down to the harbor. Donkeys still transport goods here!
- Hartland: Known for its dramatic cliffs and secluded beaches, Hartland is a haven for nature lovers.
Natural landscape
With Exmoor practically on your doorstep, you can enjoy miles of moorland, wooded valleys and rolling farmland. Exmoor provides miles of footpaths for walking and is home to the famous Exmoor ponies and wild deer.
Exmoor boasts some of the best dark skies in the UK. On a clear night, you can witness thousands of stars, the Milky Way, and other astronomical wonders. In fact, Exmoor was designated as an International Dark Sky Reserve in 2011
Community Matters
North Devon’s towns and villages offer a sense of belonging. Whether you’re volunteering at a local beach clean up or joining a gardening club, community bonds run deep. Living in Barnstaple, the largest town in North Devon, offers a delightful blend of history, natural beauty, and community spirit.
Living in North Devon means embracing the elements—the salty sea breeze, the rolling hills, and the friendly faces. So, if you’re ready for coastal bliss, pack your bags and make Taw Wharf your home.
