Discover Hartland: Coast, Gardens and History

Hartland brings together a historic estate, walking paths, coastal scenery and buildings from several centuries. When planning your trip, consider whether you’d mainly like to explore gardens and architecture, spend time outdoors or learn more about the area’s maritime history. Each theme gives your stay its own focus.

Hartland Abbey, Gardens and Walking Paths

Hartland Abbey and Gardens are open to visitors from Sunday to Thursday in 2026; check opening times again before your trip. The Abbey features architecture and furnishings from the medieval period, as well as from the Queen Anne, Georgian, Regency and Victorian eras. Elements from several periods come together here, rather than the estate representing just one phase of construction.

The grounds also offer different ways to explore: Hartland Abbey has gardens, walking paths and parkland with extensive open spaces. The valley leads down to a rugged Atlantic cove and the cottage at Blackpool Mill. The Old Kitchens Tea Room serves homemade light lunches and cream teas. An admission ticket to the gardens or grounds is required to access the tea room.

Paths, Coastal Views and Wildlife

Near Hartland, the short East Titchberry farm walk is step-free and has numerous benches. From there, you can enjoy coastal views as far as Lundy Island. Seals may also be spotted at Shipload Bay; sightings are seasonal and not guaranteed. Dolphins and various seabirds may also be seen along the Hartland coast, depending on the season and chance.

The countryside around Hartland is criss-crossed by footpaths and quiet country lanes, making it suitable for walking. The country lanes also offer opportunities for cycling. There are different ways to enjoy the outdoors: a short, step-free path with benches, walks through the countryside or bike rides along quiet country lanes. These features apply to the specific path or lanes mentioned; they do not describe other paths.

Buildings and Maritime History

The Church of St Nectan near Hartland tells the story of several centuries of building history. Its main fabric dates from the 14th and 15th centuries. The 128-foot tower is considered the tallest in Devon. Inside, the church preserves an ornate 15th-century rood screen that extends across its full width. These details make the building interesting to visitors who would like to see medieval architecture as well as the landscape.

The Chapel of St John stands on The Square in Hartland and is a Grade II listed building. It was built in 1839 as a Church of England chapel. Together with the older Church of St Nectan, it offers a clear contrast between a 19th-century building and the medieval fabric of the church nearby.

The Shipwreck and Smuggling Museum near Hartland explores four centuries of shipwrecks, local lifeboat services, and the men and ships that traded from Hartland Quay over the centuries. Its themes connect the museum with the history of the coast and trade. Art trails, food festivals and music festivals are also among the community events held in Hartland throughout the year. The specific programme varies from year to year; check event dates for your travel period.

Getting There and Choosing Where to Stay

Hartland is connected to the A39 and is accessible by car from Devon and the South West. This makes it easy to assess Hartland as a destination based on the interests you’d like to pursue during your stay.

Discover more destinations: Brixton, Clovelly, Meshaw, Ipplepen, Woolacombe, Ilsington, Horrabridge, Throwleigh.

For the main travel overview: Devon.