Once 'unknown to the outside world', this quaint seaside village is now insatiably popular. Tucked away in the Torridge district of Devon, Clovelly has propelled into the mainstream in recent years - and was even crowned Britain's 'Most Instagrammable Village' in 2020. The privately-owned fishing village, which has a population of just 443, is stepped in maritime history - and was once owned by William the Conqueror, the King of England. Its regal atmosphere hasn't changed at all though, and tourists from all over travel to the coastal gem for a weekend of peace and quiet.
With 630 miles of coastal path, Clovelly is an ideal base for hikers wanting to stretch their legs and make the most of the refreshing sea air. If you want breathtaking views looking down into the cove where you're staying, the Hobby Drive route is worth the steep incline!. Those wanting a more relaxing staycation can meander slowly through the Clovelly Court Gardens. Thanks to the warmth brought from the Gulf Stream, you'll find an array of stunning bloom and carefully tended gardens here - as well as some pretty impressive Victorian greenhouses. History buffs can learn more about the area's maritime history at the Fisherman's Cottage & Kingsley Museum, while animal lovers can say hello to Rex, Bert, Ernie and Alfred: the village's famous donkeys.
"There has always been a charge to visit Clovelly," the village's tourist board states. "Like most historical landmarks (e.g. National Trust sites), we heavily rely on entrance fees for the essential maintenance and upkeep that comes with an ancient village perched on a 400ft cliff, with no vehicular access.". Tickets, priced at £9.50 for an adult or £5.50 for a child over the age of seven, include entry to the village, parking, entry to Clovelly Court Gardens, entry to the Fisherman's Cottage and Kingsley Museum, as well as general facilities an an 'audio-visual experience'. A family ticket, allowing two adults and two children to enter, can be bought for a discounted £25.
Want the latest travel news and cheap holiday deals sent straight to your inbox? Sign up to our Travel Newsletter. Clovelly is some 232 miles from the Big Smoke, meaning you'll be driving for more than four and a half hours - even without traffic. While there is no railway station in Clovelly itself, you can get the train over to Barnstaple. This tends to include one change (usually at Exeter St David's) and takes just under three and a half hours. From here, you can get a one-hour bus ride down to Clovelly, or book a taxi.
Accommodation in the area is limited, and therefore not very competitive in terms of pricing. For example, a two-night stay in the highly-acclaimed Red Lion Hotel, which is located right on the beach front, would set you back £340. However, opting for a more budget-friendly stay at the The New Inn Clovelly would cost £220 for the exact same dates. *Prices are based on the cost of staying from Friday, March 14 to Sunday, March 16 on Booking.com.
