Family friendly

While Lundy Island may only stretch three miles in length and half a mile wide, its compact size belies the wealth of experiences it offers day-trippers. With over 4,000 years of human history, brought to life by 42 scheduled monuments and a collection of listed buildings, the island is a treasure trove of heritage. Its remote location fosters a unique habitat for wildlife, often likened to the biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands. All of this unfolds against a backdrop of rugged natural beauty, creating a paradise for walkers.

Many day visitors embark on the journey to Lundy aboard the MS Oldenburg, the island’s own ferry and supply ship. This graceful vessel, built in 1958, retains much of its original charm with brass and wooden fittings. It boasts comfortable heated saloons, a bar, buffet, gift shop, and information desk. On sunny days, ample deck space invites passengers to enjoy the scenic views, and lucky travellers may even encounter a playful pod of dolphins trailing the ship.

The MS Oldenburg sails at least three times weekly from either Bideford or Ilfracombe, with the crossing taking approximately two hours each way. This allows between four and six hours to explore the island, depending on the chosen travel day.

Given the island’s abundance of attractions, it’s unlikely that a single visit will suffice. Weather often dictates the day’s activities—if the wind blows easterly, head west, and vice versa. And even on rainy days, there’s plenty to see and do in and around the Tavern.

Holsworthy Gold Panning – The only real Gold Panning Experience in the South West!
Join us for an exciting gold panning adventure at our beautiful stream near Holsworthy!
Devon and Cornwall are well known for their rich mineral deposits. This includes GOLD in the hills near Holsworthy!

Here’s how your prospecting adventure will look :-
A short walk down to the panning station next to the stream.
A fun demonstration and equipment distribution.
1 hour of fun gold panning in the stream!
Return equipment to the panning station.
Examine and share your finds with the group.
What might you find?
Fools Gold (Pyrite)
Bits of Quartz sometimes with crystals
Pretty Sandstones with Mica crystals
Maybe if you are lucky – even some real Gold?!?

After your Gold Panning Adventure
Head to our picnic area to relax and wonder about ‘The gold in them hills!’

Could this be the start of your prospecting journey?

Join The Devon Gold Rush and make some Golden Memories!

Fantastic experience
Jul 2023 • Family
This was a fantastic experience and Paul is so knowledgeable and friendly . My 2 boys 7yrs & 15yrs have additional needs and he won them over . As a family we absolutely loved the experience , didn’t feel rushed and was made to feel very welcome . I would highly recommend this experience , it’s worth going just to see the beautiful surroundings/settings . We learnt so much !

About
Hartland Abbey holds a unique charm as it continues to be cherished by the family, distinguishing itself from many ancestral homes that have transitioned into mere museums. Here, you’ll encounter the genuine warmth and hospitality that can only be found in a home that is truly lived in.

Experience a heartfelt welcome as you step through the doors, followed by the option of a captivating, guided tour for groups, should you desire one. Alternatively, take your time to explore the house, gardens, and scenic walks at your own pace, indulging in a delightful lunch or cream tea—or why not both?

Whether you opt for a guided tour or a leisurely wander, Hartland Abbey promises an unforgettable experience imbued with the essence of family heritage and a genuine sense of home.

History
Constructed in 1157 and consecrated by Bishop Bartholomew of Exeter in 1160 AD, Hartland Abbey began its journey as a monastery for the regular canons of the Order of St Augustine of Hippo. For nearly four centuries, it stood as a spiritual haven until 1539 when it witnessed the dissolution of monasteries under Henry VIII’s reign, becoming the last monastery in the country to succumb to this fate.

Following its dissolution, Henry VIII bestowed Hartland Abbey upon Mr. William Abbott, the Sergeant of his Wine Cellar at Hampton Court. This generous gift initiated a new chapter in the abbey’s history, as the Abbott family became its custodians, passing down the stewardship through generations. Today, descendants of Mr. William Abbott continue to reside within the Abbey, preserving its rich heritage and sharing its captivating stories with visitors.

Visitor Information
A visit to Hartland Abbey promises fun and fascination for visitors of all ages, with its enchanting gardens and sprawling grounds offering a delightful array of activities. While adults immerse themselves in the rich history of the house and gardens, children can embark on an adventure with the Abbey Quiz (with a prize for all), follow the Malory Towers Trail, or explore the charming paths and woodland walks teeming with nature’s wonders—a total of 3 1/2 miles to explore!

Indulge in delicious homemade light lunches and cream teas at the Old Kitchens Tea Room (accessible only with House and/or Garden tickets), offering a delightful culinary experience amidst historic surroundings.

Don’t miss out on the engaging exhibitions, museum, gift shop, and plant stall, where you can uncover treasures and souvenirs to cherish.

While access to the house involves steps and may pose challenges for wheelchairs, assistance is available. The Tea Room and Exhibitions offer flat and wheelchair-accessible pathways. Unfortunately, electric mobility wheelchairs cannot be accommodated inside the house due to narrow rooms and corridors. However, the surrounding gravel areas provide ease of movement, and the gardens boast accessible sections, such as The Shrubbery.

For outdoor enthusiasts, picnics can be enjoyed on the spacious grassy car park, offering a perfect setting for relaxation and al fresco dining.

While they adore dogs at Hartland Abbey, they kindly request that they remain on leads. Guide dogs are welcome inside the house. Ample parking is available adjacent to the house, ensuring convenience for all visitors.

SURFING AND BODY BOARDING WITH ATLANTIC PURSUITS
Ever wondered about the differences between surfing and body/boogie boarding? Allow us to shed some light on the nuances:

Surfing:
The objective is to catch a wave substantial enough for you to stand on the board and ride the wave. By using long boards, extending up to 9 feet, these are easier to balance on and control. It’s a thrilling activity where you typically remain within chest-depth waters to catch a wave. Our instructors are on hand to assist you in catching the perfect wave, providing you with the optimal opportunity to ride the board with style and skill.

Body/Boogie Boarding:
On the other hand, body or boogie boarding employs a much smaller board, especially suitable for smaller children. This activity is typically confined to the safe swimming area, offering a secure and enjoyable experience.

In essence, whether you choose the exhilarating ride of surfing or the family-friendly fun of body/boogie boarding, Atlantic Pursuits ensures a memorable aquatic adventure tailored to your preferences.

Why opt for Atlantic Pursuits?
Owner Sam Roberts: a 30-year Outdoor Expert:
With over three decades of experience, Sam Roberts is a seasoned trainer in surf life-saving and served as an RNLI helmsman for 20 years. His expertise as an excellent waterman is dedicated to delivering enjoyable, safe, and informative sessions.

Exclusive Small Groups/Private Family Experience:
Enjoy a session with just 6-8 people, ensuring a more personalized and intimate setting.

Premium Equipment:
Our equipment is top-notch, updated annually. Wetsuits, surfboards, and bodyboards are all in excellent condition, sourced from reputable providers such as Gul, Sola, and C-Skins.

Maximized Water Time:
Our groups prioritize time in the water, ensuring you make the most of your session. Informative introductions and warm-ups are concise, allowing you to fully enjoy your time.

Safety First:
Owner Sam Roberts: a 30-year Outdoor Expert:
With over three decades of experience, Sam Roberts is a seasoned trainer in surf life-saving and served as an RNLI helmsman for 20 years. His expertise as an excellent waterman is dedicated to delivering enjoyable, safe, and informative sessions.

For All Ages:
This activity is suitable for everyone, starting from the minimum age of 5. Age is no barrier—whether you’re 60 or 6, this is an exciting and inclusive activity for all.

Experience Bodmin Jail Where History Comes Alive
Embark on an immersive journey through history with The Bodmin Jail Experience. With a £8.5 million investment, the introduction of the captivating ‘Dark Walk’ experience, elevating your visit to new heights. Included in standard jail entry tickets or join a heritage guided tour, explore the rich tapestry of stories woven within these historic walls.

Originally built in 1779 for King George III, Bodmin Jail holds a significant place in Cornwall’s past. The bold redevelopment invites you to uncover its intriguing hidden history, offering a glimpse into the heart of Cornwall’s heritage. Representing a substantial investment in Cornwall’s tourism, the state-of-the-art technology ensures a truly immersive experience, making it the premier attraction.

The Dark Walk:
Immerse Yourself in History and Discover the Secrets of Cornwall’s Past
Set out on an unforgettable journey through Cornwall’s history with the groundbreaking ‘Dark Walk’. A pioneering attraction in Cornwall, it combines theatrical effects and cutting-edge technology to transport visitors back to the region’s enigmatic past. Experience firsthand the harsh realities of life in an 18th and 19th-century prison on the rugged edges of Bodmin Moor.

Reimagined for modern audiences, this haunting cinematic experience brings to life stories of smuggling, mining, and the daily struggles endured by Cornwall’s most vulnerable. Hear tales of infamous prisoners and delve into the untold stories of the past.

The Naval Wing:
A Glimpse into Grimy Cells, Harsh Punishments and  Gruelling Conditions
Venture into the original Naval Wing of the jail, where visitors brave a chilly journey into the stark reality of life behind bars. Experience firsthand the dreariness of days and nights within the confines of grimy cells, witness the severity of prison punishments, and unravel the tales of child criminals as you explore these formidable structures.

The Administration Block:
Continue your journey to the Administration Block and the Governor’s Office, where visitors can uncover the captivating history of the individuals who operated, toiled, and resided within Bodmin Jail. Delve into hidden stories and myths of Cornwall, Bodmin, and this historic penitentiary from an operational standpoint, gaining insight into its rich tapestry of tales and legends.

The Final Moments:
Feel the solemnity of the condemned as you trace the final footsteps of the 55 prisoners led to the hanging pit. Witnessing the last moments at the only original, fully functional Victorian Hanging Pit in the UK prompts deep reflection.

Tours:
The chilling allure of Bodmin Jail is renowned as one of the UK’s most haunted historical sites. Join a Ghost Hunt and spend the night investigating potential paranormal activity. Delve into the eerie atmosphere independently or with the guidance of our paranormal hosts until the early hours of the morning. Enhance your visit with Heritage and Paranormal Tours, providing invaluable insights and experiences to make the most of your time there.

Bodmin’s iconic Keep stands as a testament to Cornwall’s military history, boasting over 160 years of heritage as the former regimental headquarters. Today, it has transformed into a captivating museum, chronicling 300 years of military presence in Cornwall.

Step inside to discover a treasure trove of artifacts, from badges and weapons to regimental colours, each offering a glimpse into the storied past of Cornwall’s military legacy. Delve into the lives of ordinary soldiers who lived through extraordinary times, as their stories unfold through immersive exhibits and displays.

A visit to Bodmin Keep is an opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of Cornwall’s military heritage, offering insight into the bravery, sacrifice, and resilience of those who served.

The museum boasts an extensive collection of over 12,000 items, the majority of which are proudly showcased for visitors to explore. Each artifact weaves a compelling narrative of battle and honours the courage and sacrifice of individual soldiers.

Among the treasures are numerous works of art that vividly depict tales of conflict, complemented by a remarkable display of over 80 uniforms spanning from Napoleonic times to the modern era. Visitors can also marvel at hundreds of medals bestowed upon brave individuals for their wartime heroism throughout history.

In addition to these remarkable artifacts, the collection includes a diverse array of sculptures, decorative art, and other fascinating memorabilia, offering a comprehensive journey through Cornwall’s military heritage. Immerse yourself in the stories of valour and resilience encapsulated within our museum’s unparalleled collection.

Dogs
Bodmin Keep welcomes furry friends to the museum as they are a dog-friendly attraction. Well-behaved dogs on a lead are warmly invited to accompany their owners during their visit. However, please note that entry for dogs is subject to discretion, particularly during busy periods. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for both human and canine visitors, it’s recommend booking ahead.

Accessibility
The museum is spread across two floors, each accessed via a flight of stairs, unfortunately, wheelchair access is not available at this time. However, Bodmin Keep strive to ensure that all visitors can enjoy our exhibits comfortably. They provide seating in every gallery and stalls to stand on, allowing everyone to view items displayed in cabinets raised off the ground. The aim is to make your visit as inclusive and enjoyable as possible.

At Shoreline we use a number of soft-shelled surf boards designed to help you get started and develop a robust technique. Not only are these boards extremely safe but they are also light and easy to carry to and from the shore. Being very buoyant these boards catch the waves easily making sure that you will have plenty of rides on which to get to your feet and polish up your surfing style!

We generally run half day sessions throughout the year providing Instructors, Boards, Wetsuits with Hats and Gloves in the colder months. This is a great individual sport and group activity where you can never predict who will come out as the session’s star, its physical but very rewarding.

Within Bude itself we boast three very different beaches with Crooklets being the most well known as our classic ‘surfing’ beach. Crooklets is home to the towns Surf Life Saving Club the very club that provides the training and Lifeguard qualifications essential to our team of coaches. The Surf at the west facing Crooklets beach breaks along a long sandy shallow sloping beach creating endless peeling and broken waves perfect for learning and practising your surfing techniques.

Discover the wonders of the sea with Independent Charters, departing from Clovelly Harbour, the historic fishing village of North Devon. This family-run business, led by Dave and Doug Walls, brings over 40 years of angling expertise and more than two decades as Lifeboat Crew at Clovelly.

You will set sail in a Mitchell 31 MK II boat, boasting onboard toilet and handwash amenities. This vessel provides seating for up to 12 passengers, including a dedicated crew member. Your skipper will navigate the waters with ease on this reliable and spacious boat, ensuring a memorable experience for you and your companions.

Choose from an array of options, including sea angling trips, sea fly fishing, boat charter fishing, reef & wreck fishing, and Marine Wildlife & Lundy Island expeditions.

The rich waters around North Devon offer opportunities to catch Pollock, bream, sea trout, mackerel, tope, Porbegle, and more.

Join Doug and Dave for an unforgettable maritime adventure, where their passion meets a wealth of experience.

Perched on the sandy shores and nestled along the lively promenade at Crooklets Beach, you’ll find a sprawling, purpose-built wooden shipwreck playground, beckoning adventurers of all ages.

With its captivating design and ample space for exploration, this maritime marvel promises endless fun and excitement. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a landlubber, the shipwreck offers an immersive play experience that will ignite the imagination and create lasting memories.

Conveniently positioned near the Downs, this play area serves as the perfect pit stop before embarking on a picturesque stroll across the scenic landscape from Crooklets to Summerleaze. It’s a seamless blend of adventure and tranquility, ensuring a memorable seaside escapade for the whole family.

A garden full of inspiration

Set in a beautiful valley in the heart of North Devon between two National Parks, RHS Rosemoor is a 65 acre haven for biodiversity and wildlife has something for everyone.

A feast for the senses

Explore their famous ‘garden rooms’, each themed to celebrate the seasons in different planting styles and designs, where the plants are always the star.

Luxuriate in the scent of over 250 rose varieties in two dedicated gardens, at their fragrant peak in June.

Experience a blaze of reds, oranges and yellows in the Hot Garden with swathes of vibrant plants or unwind in the soothing pastels and blues of the Cool Garden, a tranquil oasis with a teardrop-shaped pond.

Discover trees from every continent of the Northern Hemisphere, see their Devon orchard with rare heritage apple trees or be inspired by the range of delectable edibles grown in the Fruit and Vegetable Garden.

Families can let their imaginations run wild exploring woodland walks – try your hand at den making or follow the leaf rubbing trail!

A hive of activity

The garden comes alive with craft fairs, workshops, live music and more throughout the year, with something to do every school holiday. Join a creative class, improve your gardening knowledge at one of the regular courses or just sit back and be entertained! Relish the delights of the Festival of Flavours, get nostalgic at the Vintage weekend or just get festive at the annual Glow illuminations.

Savour local flavours

Taste produce from Rosemoor’s own garden and enjoy locally-sourced delicacies carefully prepared on site in a range of meal and snack options, or treat yourself to a delicious cream tea with garden views.

Green shopping

They have plants for any space: big, small or indoors and offer a 5-year guarantee on hardy plants. Local artisan produce and crafts, horticultural and lifestyle books, gifts and sustainable homeware also available.

Golf Course
Nestled just 3 miles north of the charming coastal town of Bude, this family-friendly golf centre features a picturesque 9-hole course set amidst the spectacular Cornish countryside.

Measuring at 2300 yards, the 9-hole golf course presents breathtaking panoramic views of the Cornish coastline, Bude town, and the inland moors.

Perfect for golfers of all ages, particularly beginners, Ivyleaf prides itself on being beginner-friendly. They foster a relaxed environment with no dress code and eliminate the hassle of tee time reservations—simply show up and dive into the joy of golfing fun! Take advantage of the convenient club, trolley, and buggy rentals to enhance your experience, or feel free to bring your own.

The course is open 7 days a week, allowing you to savour a leisurely round at your own pace.

Golf Range
Perfect your swing at the dynamic driving range at Ivy Leaf Golf Centre!
Boasting 7 undercover bays, indulge in focused practice sessions regardless of the weather.
Their range features high-quality Srixon 2-piece range balls for an authentic feel to your shots.
Extend your practice into the evening with LED floodlights illuminating the range until 9 pm (Monday-Saturday), ensuring optimal visibility for every swing.
Outside, a £1 coin-operated ball dispenser adds convenience to your practice routine.
Ample parking and club hire, making it accessible for golfers of all abilities to enhance their game.

 Golf Simulator
Dive into a world of golfing thrills with our advanced simulator at Ivy Leaf Golf Centre! Choose from a selection of over 150,000 courses, elevate your game with detailed shot analysis, and share the experience with up to 4 players per session. Swing by and play the course of your dreams today!
Important: Use of the golf simulator is only during office hours. If you wish to book outside of these times, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.

Join Ivyleaf Golf Centre for an experience that combines the beauty of the surroundings with the joy of the game.

Nestled amid the idyllic British countryside and peacefully situated on the Cornwall and Devon border, Upper and Lower Tamar Lakes are steeped in industrial history and teeming with diverse flora and fauna.

Established in the 1820s, Lower Tamar Lake boasts a rich history. As a designated Nature Reserve, it provides an ideal sanctuary to connect with nature. Take a moment of tranquillity in the bird hide, where sightings of ospreys, sandpipers, and cormorants are possible.

Remarkably, the boundary between Devon and Cornwall cuts directly through the centre of Upper Tamar Lake!

Beyond the natural richness of both lakes, Upper Tamar Lake offers a plethora of activities catering to all preferences, complemented by an on-site café ensuring a delightful experience for all visitors whatever age. Activities including walking, canoeing, cycling, fishing, kayaking, rowing, SUP, sailing and windsurfing. You can even extend your stay and make the most of the excellent camping facilities on site.

Activities at Tamar Lakes 

• Walking: Set out on a close encounter with nature as you explore our way-marked walking trails tracing the scenic shorelines of both lakes. The circular path around Upper Tamar Lake spans approximately 2.8 miles (4.5 km), creating an ideal route for a picturesque lakeside walk. Suitable for pushchairs, mobility scooters and wheelchairs.
• Parkrun: Every Saturday at 9 am, Parkrun events take place at Upper Tamar Lake, providing an excellent opportunity to join fellow enthusiasts and challenge yourself in this scenic setting!
• Kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, sailing, windsurfing, and rowing are all available at Upper Tamar Lake, you can hire the equipment or launch your own.
• Fishing: Upper Tamar Lake is an ideal destination for your next angling expedition, acclaimed as the top still water coarse fishery in the UK in 2021!
• Cycling: The three-mile loop surrounding the upper lake provides an enjoyable and family-friendly cycling experience.