St. Mary’s Church

Perched on the hillside above Woolacombe's sweeping bay, this medieval church offers more than just spiritual sanctuary - it serves up some of the finest coastal views in North Devon. The building itself is a proper Norman affair, with thick stone walls and a tower that's been guiding sailors and surfers alike for centuries.

Inside, you'll find the usual collection of memorial plaques and wooden pews, but it's the setting that really impresses. The churchyard makes for a peaceful spot to catch your breath after tackling Woolacombe's steep streets, and the vista across the Atlantic is well worth the climb.

Families staying at nearby Woolacombe Bay Holiday Park or Woolacombe Sands Holiday Park will find it's an easy walk from town, though the incline might challenge little legs. History enthusiasts will appreciate the medieval stonework and local maritime connections, while photographers will want to time their visit for the golden hour when the light hits the coastline just right.

Allow half an hour unless you're planning to linger in the graveyard reading headstones - some tell fascinating tales of local shipwrecks and Victorian merchants. The church typically stays open during daylight hours, though services obviously take precedence. It's free to visit and makes a lovely counterpoint to all that beach time down in the village.