Bideford hotels

Hotels in Bideford

Bideford is one of Devon's scenic port towns. It sits at the estuary of the River Torridge, with regular ferries across to Lundy Island. The island is home to a nature reserve and a lighthouse, both popular with visitors. The river is the heart of the town, dotted with pubs, pavement cafés and quiet shopping lanes.

Budget and luxury options can be found on the list of Bideford hotels. As the town is on both sides of the Torridge, finding a riverside hotel with beautiful views is easy.

History, architecture and art

The east and west sides of Bideford are connected by the Long Bridge built in 1286 and renovated in 1474. It's a Grade I listed monument. The bridge is made with 24 arches, and each one is a different size.

By the river you'll find the Burton Art Gallery & Museum. There are permanent collections celebrating the history of Bideford, and other exhibitions change on a regular basis. The Bideford Railway Heritage Museum is on the other side, and the old railway line is part of the local sightseeing Tarka Trail.

Things to see around Bideford

The Ultimate Adventure Centre is a popular hen party destination – you're likely to need an advance booking. It's very family friendly, with kayaking, water zorbing, mountain biking, laser tag and a surf school.

Bideford town is an ideal base for exploring North Devon and Exmoor. Start your adventure at a bicycle hire shop, or drive to Exmoor National Park in around an hour. Follow the river north on foot or cycle to Tapelely Park, a Grade II listed country house with lush green gardens.

Westward Ho! isn't far away. It's a seaside village – yes, that's what it's called – named after a Charles Kingsley novel. Tourists head there for the favourable surfing conditions and a three-mile expanse of sandy beach.

Riverside dining

Enjoy the fresh Devon air with your meal at one of the many eateries and bars that line both banks. Have your seafood however you prefer – there are Indian and Chinese restaurants in the village. From restaurants with higher terraces, you can even see the sea.

In the Bideford Bay area, you'll find delicatessens serving local produce and atmospheric country inns. For a quick snack, pop into a bakery and take away a delicious Devon pasty.

A must when visiting Devon is a taste of local ice cream. Look out for the yellow and red Hockings ice cream van at Bideford Quay.