Mortehoe is a village on a clifftop with spectacular views. Several specific, clearly located themes may help you decide where to stay: coastal paths, sightings of Atlantic grey seals, and the village’s history. This can help you weigh up whether landscape, outdoor activity, or culture should be the focus of your stay.
Coastal scenery and paths
The South West Coast Path runs through the area around Mortehoe between Croyde and Ilfracombe. For a specific nearby coastal route, the circular walk from Morte Point to Bull Point is a useful reference: it passes rocky headlands, secluded coves, sandy bays, and Bull Point Lighthouse. The rocky headlands and coves give this stretch of coast a distinct character; Bull Point Lighthouse is a clearly named destination on the route.
Atlantic grey seals can often be seen at Morte Point. Anyone interested in marine wildlife will find a specific place to look for them there. Much of the landscape around Mortehoe is part of the Voluntary Marine Conservation Area.
Village history and church
The village’s history dates back to the time of the Domesday Book and beyond. The Norman church of St Mary Magdalene in Mortehoe contains the tomb of Sir William de Tracey. He was a priest and rector of the parish of Mortehoe and died there in 1322. This brings the village’s history into focus through a named person, his position, and a specific year of death, while the history of the place stretches further back. For travellers who would like to explore historical details as well as the coast, the church offers a distinct cultural point of interest.
Getting there and activities
Stagecoach Devon bus route 21A runs from Barnstaple to Mortehoe and operates a hail-and-ride service there. Check the current route and operating arrangements before travelling. From the stop in Mortehoe, it is a ten-minute walk to Mortehoe Museum; also check the current stop location and service route when planning your journey.
National Cycle Network Route 27 runs from Ilfracombe to Barnstaple above Woolacombe Bay and close to Mortehoe. The routes differ: the bus goes to Mortehoe, while the cycle route passes close to the village. You can compare the connections mentioned here based on their actual routes.
In summer, tractor-and-trailer safaris to Bull Point or Morte Point depart from Mortehoe Museum. The service is seasonal; confirm that it is operating before your trip. The circular walk is described as running from Morte Point to Bull Point, while the safaris visit one of these destinations each. These are two different ways to explore the coast: on foot along the circular walk, or in summer by tractor and trailer, provided the safari is currently operating.
Discover more destinations: Stoke Canon, Sparkwell, Longdown, Dartmouth, Newton Abbot, Horrabridge, Dittisham, Chittlehampton.
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