Martinhoe Beach Cottages

Martinhoe Beach Cottages and the Exmoor Coast

Nearby towns and villages

Lynton and Lynmouth are the most useful coastal towns to have nearby. Lynton sits above the coast, while Lynmouth is down by the harbour, linked by the cliff railway. Together they offer cafés, pubs, shops, coastal walks and a busier day out without losing the Exmoor feel.

Combe Martin lies in the other direction and gives you a more traditional village-by-the-sea setting, with a beach, pubs and access towards the Hangman Hills. Parracombe and Kentisbury sit inland and are useful for quieter rural stops, while Ilfracombe is within reach if you want a larger harbour town with more facilities, boat trips and places to eat.

Nearby beaches

Heddon’s Mouth is one of the closest coastal spots to Martinhoe, reached through Heddon Valley rather than by simply parking beside the sand. The beach is remote, rocky and framed by high cliffs, so it is better for walking, views and a flask-of-tea stop than a classic family beach day. The route through the valley is part of the appeal, especially if you want a gentler walk before reaching the sea.

Woody Bay is another nearby option, with a tucked-away cove below steep wooded cliffs. Access is more demanding than at a town beach, and the shore is mainly pebble and rock rather than soft sand. For easier beach days with more facilities, Combe Martin and Ilfracombe are better options, while Woolacombe Beach and Saunton Sands are further away but offer wider sandy beaches.

Points of interest and things to do

Walking is the main reason to stay around Martinhoe. The South West Coast Path passes through this part of Exmoor, with routes towards Woody Bay, Heddon Valley, the Valley of Rocks, Lynmouth and Combe Martin. Some sections are steep and exposed, so this is proper walking country rather than casual seafront strolling.

Heddon Valley is a key local place to visit, with woodland, river paths and a route down to Heddon’s Mouth. The Valley of Rocks near Lynton is another useful day out, especially if you want cliff scenery without committing to a long walk. For something different, the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway, Lynmouth harbour, Exmoor villages and Ilfracombe’s harbour all give you options within a manageable drive.