Combe Martin Visitor Guide

A complete guide to beaches, activities, accommodation, events and travel

Combe Martin is a welcoming coastal village on the edge of Exmoor National Park, known for its sheltered bay, excellent rock pools, friendly community, and easy access to some of North Devon’s most beautiful landscapes. Whether you’re visiting for a family holiday, a walking break, or a relaxing seaside escape, this guide gives you everything you need to plan your stay. 

Why Visit Combe Martin

Combe Martin sits between the rugged cliffs of Exmoor National Park and the sweeping coastline of the North Devon Coast National Landscapes. Visitors love it for:

• A safe, sheltered bay ideal for swimming and paddling

• Some of the best rock pools in North Devon

• Kayaking and paddle‑boarding in calm waters

• Direct access to the South West Coast Path

• North Devon Coast National Landscape

• Family‑friendly attractions nearby

• A wide choice of outdoor activities nearby

• A friendly village with shops, pubs and cafés close to the beach

• Exmoor was the first International Dark Sky Reserve

• North Devon has the first World Surfing Reserve

• Find out about our village

• Find our local services

• Stunning sunsets over the bay

The village also has an excellent local Museum and Information Point where you can
learn about its maritime and mining heritage.

Where to Stay in Combe Martin

Combe Martin offers a range of accommodation options:

• B&Bs and guesthouses

• Self‑catering cottages

• Caravan and camping sites

Booking directly with local providers often gives the best value and avoids booking‑site
fees. Much accommodation is within walking distance of the beach, shops and cafés. 

Things to Do in Combe Martin

Whether you’re visiting for adventure or relaxation, there’s plenty to enjoy.

Outdoor Activities

• Rock pooling on the main beach

• Kayaking and paddle‑boarding (hire available in the village)

• Swimming in the sheltered bay

• Sea fishing from the beach

• Walking the South West Coast Path

• Exploring Exmoor’s moorland, valleys and wildlife

Attractions Nearby

Within a short drive you’ll find:

• Family attractions

• Beautiful gardens

• Exmoor National Park highlights

• Local heritage sites

• Local leisure facilities

• Check our Blogs for more ideas

Beaches of Combe Martin

Combe Martin has two beaches, both offering excellent rock pools and beautiful views. 

Main Beach (Harbour Beach)

• Sandy and stony

• Excellent rock pools

• Safe, sheltered water

• Kayak and paddle‑board hire nearby

• Stunning sunsets

• Access for All:

• Disabled parking bays

• Disabled toilets

• Beach wheelchairs

• Easy slipway access

Newberry Beach

• Stony beach

• Dog‑friendly all year

• Short walk from the village

• Joins the main beach at low tide

Dog‑Friendly Information

• Main Beach: Dogs allowed 1 October – 30 April

• Newberry Beach: Dog‑friendly all year

• At low tide, both beaches join into one wide sandy bay below the weir.

Local Events

Combe Martin hosts a variety of village events throughout the year, including traditional celebrations, parades, and seasonal activities.

• Village events 

• Events within a 45‑minute drive

Local Videos

Explore Combe Martin before you arrive through our video collection page, including:

• Kayaking

• Rock pooling

• Exmoor National Park

• Exmoor ponies

• Earl of Rone Parade

• Combe Martin Carnival

How to Get to Combe Martin

By Car

• M5 to Junction 27

• A361 towards Barnstaple (25.5 miles)

• At Aller Cross roundabout, turn right onto the A399

• Follow A399 for 16.5 miles to Combe Martin village

By Train

• Train to Exeter St David’s

• Connect to Barnstaple via the Tarka Line

• Walk across the river bridge to the bus station

• Take Stagecoach 301 to Combe Martin

Seasonal Bus Services

• Exmoor Explorer runs daily in season from Carhampton (Somerset) to Ilfracombe, passing through Combe Martin.

Links to Trainline, Stagecoach and Exmoor Coaster timetables can be added. (check link for current times).

Tide Times, Weather and Webcam

Visitors can check:

• Live Combe Martin Beach Webcam

• Tide times

• Weather forecasts

• Fishing conditions

Accessibility

Combe Martin is committed to making the beach accessible to everyone.

Accessibility Features

• Disabled parking bays

• Disabled toilets

• Beach wheelchairs

• Slipway access to the sand

• Accessible viewpoints

• “Access for All” information. 

Village Services

Combe Martin offers:

• Shops

• Pubs

• Cafés

• Museum & Information Point

• Parking near the beach

All within easy walking distance of the bay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Combe Martin beach safe for swimming?

Yes. The bay is sheltered, making it ideal for families and swimmers of all ages.

Are dogs allowed on the beach?

• Main Beach: 1 Oct – 30 Apr

• Newberry Beach: All year

Can I hire kayaks or paddle boards?

Yes. Hire is available in the village close to the beach.

Is Combe Martin good for rock pooling?

It’s one of the best rock‑pooling spots in North Devon.

Is the beach accessible for wheelchair users?

Yes. There are disabled bays, toilets, beach wheelchairs and slipway access.

How close are the car parks to the beach and shops?

The two car parks are easy walking distance to the shops and beach.

Is there somewhere to eat in the village?

Yes, there are cafes and pubs offering food.

How do I get to Combe Martin by public transport?

Train to Barnstaple → walk to bus station → Stagecoach 301 to Combe Martin.

Downloadable Resources

• A4 printable map of Combe Martin village

• Local walking routes

• Event listings

• Tide and weather links

About Combe Martin

This website is maintained by the Combe Martin Business Association, supporting local tourism and community engagement.