Cairn Nature Reserve

The cliffs at Cairn Nature Reserve rise sharply above Ilfracombe's coastline, offering proper dramatic Devon scenery without the crowds you'd find at more famous spots. It's a working nature reserve rather than a manicured visitor attraction, which means you're here to actually look at wildlife and geology, not queue for a café.

Walkers will get the most from this one. The coastal path winds through scrubland and along clifftop edges, giving you unobstructed views across the Bristol Channel. On clear days you can see all the way across, and even on grey ones the light does something interesting to the water. The reserve itself is small enough to cover in an hour or two, so it works well as part of a longer coastal walk rather than a standalone morning out.

Birds are the main draw - various waders and seabirds use this stretch, particularly if you time it right during migration seasons. Plant enthusiasts might spot some uncommon species clinging to the cliff faces. Families with young kids might find it a bit limited unless they're genuinely into birdwatching; there's no play area or facilities, just the walk itself.

It's free to access as a nature reserve, though you'll want decent shoes and weather appropriate gear. Go early in the day if you can, when light is best and birds are most active. Being only 1.2 miles from Hele Valley Holiday Park and a similar distance from other coastal camping spots, it slots easily into a North Devon seaside break alongside Woolacombe and the other beaches nearby.