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Tunnel Beaches

Beach

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Coastal, Cliffs, Farmland

Walking, Swimming, Photography, Wildlife Watching, Fishing, Picnicking

Spring to Autumn

Photo: Lewis Clarke via Geograph.org.uk

At Ilfracombe in north Devon, a set of tunnels hand-cut through the cliff leads down to sheltered tidal beaches and a Victorian bathing pool. Welsh miners carved the four tunnels in the 1820s to give access to the shore, and the tidal pool below reflects the old custom of separate bathing areas for ...

10

Parking nearby

2

Food Spots nearby

3

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

4 day, 6 overnight

Ilfracombe Tandoori​, The Terrace Tapas & Wine Bar​

Coast Sea View, Ilfracombe Cabin, Ilfracombe Camping Cabin

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Tunnel Beaches?
Devon's northern coastline holds this unique destination near a prominent seaside town. Walkers reach the entry point easily when exploring the regional coastal routes.

What type of place is Tunnel Beaches?
Tunnel Beaches is a historic beach venue accessed via hand-carved tunnels in Ilfracombe, North Devon.

When is the best time to visit Tunnel Beaches?
Spring through to autumn provides the finest weather for exploring the shoreline. Calmer sea conditions during these warmer months make checking out the tidal pools far safer.

What can you do at Tunnel Beaches?
Walking through the hand-carved passages leads you directly to rugged, sheltered coves. Families enjoy searching for coastal wildlife in the rockpools, swimming in the tidal waters, or photographing the massive cliffs.

How long should I spend at Tunnel Beaches?
Allocating roughly two hours provides plenty of time to explore the tunnels and relax on the beach. Couples attending a wedding or holidaymakers staying on-site often choose to spend the entire day here.

Where do I park at Tunnel Beaches?
Spaces for ten vehicles exist close to the site, providing four day and six overnight options. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Tunnel Beaches?
Ilfracombe Tandoori and The Terrace Tapas & Wine Bar represent two choices for food in the immediate area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Tunnel Beaches?
Coast Sea View, Ilfracombe Cabin, and Ilfracombe Camping Cabin offer three spots to book a stay nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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