Beer festivals, barn dances and classic Volkswagens are among the attractions drawing visitors into Ilfracombe this weekend as the seaside town prepares for one of its busiest spells of the season.
From live music and local ales to family activities and coastal walks, organisers say there is something for all ages across the town and surrounding area over the coming days.
A beer festival will take place outside The Landmark across Friday, Saturday and Sunday, featuring local brews, food and live entertainment organised by Ilfracombe Round Table.
Visitors can also enjoy a barn dance, while the Seaweed Festival will celebrate coastal culture, foraging and ocean-inspired living.
Classic car enthusiasts are expected to gather on the seafront on Sunday for the North Shore Aircooled VW event, which begins at 11.30am and showcases air-cooled vehicles and vintage Volkswagens.
Shoppers hoping for bargains can visit a local car boot sale, while those staying into next week can also explore the Ilfracombe Monday Market and the Lee Spring Fair, featuring stalls, food and family activities.
Families visiting the area are also being encouraged to make the most of local attractions, including Ilfracombe Aquarium, Ilfracombe Museum and Watermouth Castle.
Outdoor attractions including The Torrs cliffs, Cairn Nature Reserve, Hillsborough and Bicclescombe Park are also expected to prove popular as warmer weather arrives along the North Devon coast.
Away from the harbour, Ilfracombe’s town centre is also continuing to attract new independent businesses and experiences.
Fore Street and the High Street have seen several new openings in recent months, adding to established businesses including Mark’s Models, The Wellington Arms, hand:plant, Pedlars Of Ilfracombe, Ilfracombe Chocolate Emporium, Sage Cottage Tearoom, In The Pink and Sue’s Treasure Trove.
Newer additions include Venture Games Ilfracombe, which offers a paint splatter room and escape room experience, and Still Point Studio, which hosts yoga and wellness classes.
Visitors can also browse record shops, book stores, gift shops, galleries, eco refill stores and independent food retailers across the town centre.
Promoting the area’s growing independent business scene, Andrew White said Ilfracombe was “full of fresh energy right now”.
He added: “At a time when many high streets are facing real challenges, Ilfracombe is bucking the trend.
“New independent shops, cafés, studios and experiences have opened in recent months, adding even more character to a town already packed with local favourites.”
Andrew said the town’s independent spirit was helping attract more visitors and encouraging people to spend more time exploring beyond the harbour area.
He said: “Local people are opening doors, trying new ideas, investing in the town and giving visitors more reasons to stay, browse, eat, shop and enjoy.”
More information about businesses and attractions in the town can be found at the Ilfracombe visitor guide
