St Peter's Church

Climbing the steep streets above Ilfracombe's harbour, you'll find this Norman church perched on higher ground with views stretching across the Bristol Channel. The tower dates back to the 14th century, though much of what you see today reflects Victorian restoration work that rather transformed the original medieval character.

Inside, the atmosphere feels properly ancient despite the renovations. Look for the carved wooden rood screen and some decent stained glass that catches the light beautifully on sunny afternoons. The churchyard offers a peaceful spot to catch your breath after the climb from town - though frankly, the views aren't quite spectacular enough to justify the trek if you're not particularly keen on old churches.

History enthusiasts will appreciate the building's long story, but families with restless children might find twenty minutes is quite enough. The church seems to keep fairly standard hours, though it's worth checking if you're making a special journey.

From the nearby holiday parks like Devon Cliffs Resort or Ladram Bay, it makes a decent half-hour detour if you're already exploring Ilfracombe's lanes and fancy a bit of local history. Combine it with a wander through the old town rather than treating it as a destination in itself.