Clovelly

Clovelly is a privately owned fishing village that clings to a steep cliff above the Bristol Channel, near Bideford. Its single cobbled street drops down past whitewashed cottages to a working harbour, and because no vehicles are allowed, children can wander freely while sledges and donkeys carry goods up and down the hill. Families often enjoy meeting the donkeys, watching the audio-visual film about village life, and visiting the Kingsley Museum and Fisherman's Cottage. The Victorian walled gardens at Clovelly Court are a gentler option for little legs, and the pebbly beach at the bottom gives a chance to paddle and look for crabs. The walk back up is steep, so older children and adults should be ready for a climb, and a Land Rover service can carry visitors back to the top during the main season. Pushchairs and wheelchairs struggle on the cobbles, so plan accordingly.