Combe Martin: Coast, Paths and Village History

In Combe Martin, there is plenty to explore during a stay, from coastal scenery and walking trails to nature, the museum and village history.

Beach, Tides and Distinctive Scenery

Depending on the state of the tide, broad stretches of sand and rock alternate at Combe Martin Beach. The beach is generally suitable for families and people interested in marine nature. Typical activities include relaxing, exploring rock pools and fishing; visitors can also learn to stand-up paddleboard or kayak here. The beach lies within the Hele, Samson’s and Combe Martin Bays Site of Special Scientific Interest. The diversity of the exposed rocks, together with their faults and folds, gives the area national significance.

The landscape’s character is also apparent above the beach. In June and July, spotted orchids, betony, ling heather and bush vetch may be seen on the grassland. The southern slope of the village is marked by characteristic hedge patterns from old field systems. The plant sightings are specific to the summer months mentioned; the hedges, by contrast, are part of the village’s traditional landscape.

Several beach wheelchairs are available free of charge at the beach, including one suitable for use in the sea. This is a specific provision for beach visitors.

Walking and Finding Your Way Around

The Combe Martin and Great Hangman route runs from Combe Martin to the highest point on Exmoor’s 34-mile coastline, then returns to the village along paths from Knap Down. It is 7.5 kilometres long and takes about two to three hours to walk. Its length and approximate duration help you plan how much time to allow for the walk. At Combe Martin Museum, visitors can get maps, bus timetables, walking routes and materials about the South West Coast Path.

For bus travel, route 301 runs between Barnstaple and Combe Martin. Check the current timetable before travelling. This lets you plan your journey separately, while the route itself is a circular walk returning to Combe Martin.

Museum, Traditions and Architectural History

Combe Martin Museum presents archaeological finds, historical artefacts and photographs across three floors, as well as changing exhibitions about the village’s history and culture. Other historical topics include the Combe Martin Silver Mines: first mentioned in the late 13th century, they were worked intermittently until the beginning of the 20th century.

The Hunting of the Earl of Rone is an annual custom considered unique to the village. It takes place over the four days of the Spring Bank Holiday weekend at the end of May. The tradition was reconstructed in 1970 and has continued as a living tradition ever since. If you want to combine cultural history with a specific event date, check the dates for the year of your trip.

The Church of St Peter ad Vincula is listed as a Grade I building. Parts of the south transept, chancel and nave retain fabric dating from the 13th century. The Pack o’ Cards Inn offers another striking connection between architecture and numbers: built in 1626, it has 52 windows, four storeys and 13 doors on each floor.

Animals and Dinosaurs

Combe Martin Wildlife & Dinosaur Park features, among other animals, sea lions, Amur leopards, primates, wolves and reptiles. The park includes 28 acres of gardens in the Combe Martin valley, dinosaur models and the Dinosaurus Playzone. The park has steep sections, including the path from the main car parks. This is relevant when planning your visit and should be considered when deciding on a suitable day’s itinerary.

Combe Martin offers a range of different things to explore: the beach and tides, a walk with a defined duration, nature in summer, historic buildings and an annual custom. Choose your hotel in Combe Martin according to what you want your stay to focus on, and take the stated walking times, seasonal nature sightings and the date of the custom into account when planning.

Discover more destinations: Woodleigh, Southleigh, Dunkeswell, Exminster, Teignmouth, Clyst Saint Mary, Copplestone, Westward Ho.

View the wider travel guide: Devon.