Bideford was the major port in the area between 1550 and 1750.
Bridgeland Street still retains the grand merchant houses, and there is an indoor Pannier Market, now refurbished.
The town is on steep hills overlooking the river and the unusual 15th Century bridge, each of the 24 arches are a different size.
There are pleasant walks from Bideford along the river to Appledore and the Tarka Trail inland to Torrington or towards Barnstaple along an old railway track. Cycles can be rented just over the bridge next to the main road.
Now there is a bridge taking traffic from Cornwall and Barnstaple.
Busy in summer, Pay Parking by the quay.
Out of town shopping village, Atlantic Village, with new supermarket.

Activities
The one mile quay side, Bideford
leads you to Queens Park, just outside is a statue of Charles Kingsley, see Westward Ho! The one mile quay side information
Northam Swimming Pool Churchill Lane, Northam, Bideford EX39 1NS
Just out of the town at Northam, towards Westward Ho! there is a modern swimming pool, with sauna. Northam Swimming Pool information
M.S. Oldenburg, Bideford
Take the M.S. Oldenburg from the quay to Lundy island for a day out. Times according to season and tide, Oldenburg office is on the quay. M.S. Oldenburg information

Gardens

Art Galleries
Burton Art Gallery Kingsley Road, Bideford EX39 2QQ
local and national artists in a modern building near to the park. Shop and cafe. It now also houses the local Tourist Information Centre. Burton Art Gallery information

Adventure & Theme Parks
Big Sheep, Abbotsham EX39 5AP
Visit the Big Sheep, themed farm, great for the kids, just outside the village.Family Fun, theme park, undercover activities, shop etc, at Abbotsham, Bideford Big Sheep information
Milky Way Clovelly, Bideford EX39 5RY
Adventure park for children and adults, between Bideford and Clovelly. Voted one of the top 50 in the world, now mainly fun and games! Milky Way information
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Heywood Road, Northam Bideford EX39 3QB MAP
Now under new ownership It is our aim to provide you with the highest standard of personal service, comfort and cuisine. You are well placed to explore one of the most beautiful parts of the country.
We would like to welcome you to the Durrant House Hot...
More Information and Book ... Price Guide: Prices From £45 a Room
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New Road Bideford EX39 2HR MAP
In the centre of historic Bideford, at the heart of North Devon, this privately owned and managed hotel looks out over the River Torridge, opposite the ancient bridge.
Next to the town centre and within easy walking distance of all that Bideford has to o...
More Information and Book ... Price Guide: Prices From £35 a Room
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Barnstaple Street Bideford EX39 4AE MAP
Set at the Eastern end of ancient Bideford Bridge, this hotel is associated with the 17th-century Court of Assize, Sir Charles Kingsley, and the D-Day Landings; ideal for a heritage enthusiast.
One of the hotel's most famous features is the oak panelled...
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Rectory Lane, Parkham Bideford EX39 5PG MAP
Set in 10 acres of grounds, this tranquil hotel provides a perfect base to relax, unwind and enjoy everything that North Devon has to offer.
The stylishly refurbished hotel is full of character and comfort with luxurious finishes. The friendly staff are...
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Horns Cross, Clovelly Bideford EX39 5DL MAP
If you are seeking the authentic flavour of the West Country then look no further. This picture-book Thatched Inn is nestled in some of Englands most unspoilt countryside.
This lovingly cared for Grade 2 Listed Heritage Hotel under the personal supervis...
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Bideford
Converted 18th Century stables within courtyard adjoining the owners' farmhouse. Stunning views over a wooded valley, nearby port/market town of Bideford and stretching over the estuary of the river Torridge. Enjoy the peaceful, rural ... Sleeps 8 ...
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Welcombe Bideford
The beach, which is sandy, with pebbles and rock pools, is a mile and a half away, where there is a small free car park. Welcombe is a village on the North Devon/Cornwall border. Popular with walkers, surfers and families, visitors return ... Sleeps 4 ...
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Woodtown, East The Water Bideford EX39 4PP
Beautiful 5 bedroomed country house set in1.5 acres. Magnificent views. Local beaches. Near Tarka Trail. Easy access to Dartmoor and Exmoor. Woodland walks, cycling, golfing and fishing. Local attractions include "The Milky Way", and "Big ... Sleeps 18 ...
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Bideford EX39 5EE
Three historic self-catering units sleeping 2, 6 and 8. 100 acres farmland with sheep, three fishing lakes. Coast three miles, surfing, swimming and sun. Delightful southerly views of fishing lakes and fields to Dartmoor on the distant ... Sleeps 8 ...
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Buckland Brewer near Bideford EX39 5EH
7 Orleigh Court is tucked away down a long private driveway adjoining the original Grade 1 listed Manor House. Situated outside the village of Buckland brewer with its popular 13th century public house. The cottage offers comfortable ... Sleeps 4 ...
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