Living in Ilfracombe and North Devon
Ilfracombe is one of North Devon’s most picturesque coastal towns, offering a blend of seaside charm, history and creative energy. Set between dramatic cliffs and golden beaches, the town attracts homebuyers seeking a relaxed lifestyle with access to beautiful scenery and community spirit.
The town’s bustling harbour is the heart of Ilfracombe, with independent cafés, galleries, restaurants and the striking Verity statue by Damien Hirst overlooking the sea. Beyond the harbour, Ilfracombe offers great schools, local shops, and easy access to Woolacombe, Lee Bay, and Combe Martin making it ideal for families, retirees and second-home buyers.
Whether you’re walking the South West Coast Path, exploring Tunnels Beaches, or enjoying the town’s lively food and art scene, Ilfracombe is a place that balances tranquility, creativity and coastal living perfectly.
Webbers Estate Agents Ilfracombe are proud to help people find their dream homes along this beautiful stretch of the North Devon coast.
Ilfracombe offers something for everyone, from adventure seekers to art lovers.
Start your day with a stroll along the harbour, where you’ll find Damien Hirst’s “Verity” statue, a striking symbol of the town’s modern identity. Explore the Tunnels Beaches, hand-carved in the 1820s, or take a boat trip to Lundy Island for wildlife and spectacular views.
For walkers, the South West Coast Path and nearby Exmoor National Park offer some of the most breathtaking coastal trails in the country. The town’s theatres, galleries and music venues bring culture to life year-round.
Our top picks
- Tunnels Beaches
- Damien Hirst’s Verity
- Ilfracombe Aquarium
- Lundy Island Cruises
- Ilfracombe Museum
- South West Coast Path
Ilfracombe has built a reputation as one of North Devon’s best foodie destinations. The harbour area and Fore Street are packed with excellent places to eat from fine dining to relaxed seaside cafés.
Highlights include The Olive Room, a Michelin-starred restaurant showcasing local produce, Giovanni’s & Luca’s for classic Italian, and The Quay, Damien Hirst’s vibrant harbourside restaurant filled with his artwork. For more casual dining, Take Thyme and Relish Bar & Bistro are local favourites.
You’ll also find traditional pubs like The Pier Brewery Tap & Grill and The Thatched Inn, serving local ales and hearty meals after a day exploring the coast.
Ilfracombe is well connected to the rest of North Devon. The A361 provides direct links to Barnstaple, Braunton, and Exeter, while nearby bus routes connect to Woolacombe and Combe Martin.
The nearest train station is at Barnstaple, with regular services to Exeter St. David’s, Bristol, and London Paddington. The town’s location makes it ideal for anyone looking for a coastal lifestyle while staying within reach of larger centres for work or leisure.
Travel Times:
- Barnstaple: 25 mins
- Woolacombe: 15 mins
- Combe Martin: 10 mins
- Exeter: 1 hour 15 mins
Ilfracombe’s property market combines character and opportunity. You’ll find everything from Victorian villas and sea-view apartments to modern family homes and cottages near the harbour.
Many buyers are drawn to Ilfracombe’s affordability compared with other coastal areas in the South West, alongside its thriving tourism and creative scene. Rental and holiday let demand also remains strong, making it attractive for investors.
With stunning scenery, a strong community and award-winning schools nearby, Ilfracombe offers a balance of coastal life and everyday practicality.
If you’re thinking of moving, Webbers Ilfracombe provide expert local advice and tailored marketing to help you achieve the best results.
Why choose Webbers Ilfracombe?
Choose Webbers Estate Agents Ilfracombe, part of the award-winning Webbers network, proudly named Best Agent UK 2025 and Gold Winner for the South West by The Guild of Property Professionals.
Our Ilfracombe team blend coastal expertise with national reach through our Park Lane, London office. Whether you’re selling a harbour-view apartment, buying a family home in town, or letting a coastal cottage near Woolacombe, we deliver professional marketing, expert advice, and dedicated support at every stage.
Why choose Webbers Ilfracombe
- Award-winning estate and letting agents in Ilfracombe (EX34 & North Devon)
- Gold Winner South West – The Guild of Property Professionals 2025
- Trusted by sellers, buyers and landlords across Ilfracombe, Woolacombe and Lee Bay
- Exclusive London marketing and regional network reach
- Dedicated progressors ensuring a seamless move
- Properties featured on Rightmove, Zoopla and OnTheMarket with photography and video tours
Book your free property valuation or visit our Ilfracombe office today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ilfracombe a good place to live? Yes, Ilfracombe offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle with a vibrant community, great schools, and access to both countryside and beaches.
What types of property are available in Ilfracombe? Ilfracombe offers everything from sea-view apartments and period homes to cottages, family houses and modern developments.
Are house prices rising in Ilfracombe? Yes. Demand continues to grow as more people move to the North Devon coast for its beauty, affordability and community feel.
Who is the best estate agent in Ilfracombe? Webbers Ilfracombe were named Best Agent UK 2025 and Gold Winner for the South West by The Guild of Property Professionals.
Do Webbers offer lettings in Ilfracombe? Yes. Webbers Ilfracombe provide a full lettings and property management service across Ilfracombe and surrounding areas.