About Appledore
Appledore, on the north coast of Devon, where the river Torridge and the river Taw meet the sea. This estuary village is full of history, with watchtowers, lookouts, a smugglers tunnel, fisherman's cottages, captain's houses and a quay where fishing trawlers and pleasure boats tie up.
Today a conservation araea Appledore is close to the coastal path and beautiful safe beaches for surfing, swimming or just plain lazing around.
Away from the quay the narrow streets, hidden lanes and cobbled courtyards preserve the intriguing history and transport the imagination back through the centuries.
Appledore evolved as a community that centred on the sea and sea faring traditions. In 1582 records show that 115 mariners were living in Appledore with 15 vessels registered here. Six years later Sir Richard Grenville of Bideford took 5 ships from Appledore and sailed to Plymouth to join Drake to help defeat the Spanish Armada. In recognition of the bravery of Appledore sailors Queen Elizabeth I made Appledore a free port. This benefit remains today and there are still no charges on ships or boats berthing in the harbour. A century later the Navy sent their notorious press gangs to Appledore and Bideford to force as many seamen as they could into service for the Navy. Learn more about the fascinasting history of this area by visiting the superb North Devon Maritime Museum here in Appledore.
Stroll around the quaint streets of this old fashioned fishing village, enjoy the small shops and galleries and call into one of the many inns or small restaurants for good food and refreshment. During the summer you can catch a ferry across the river to the charming village of Instow with its fine sandy beach or take a boat trip around the estuary and up towards Bideford town.
Nearby Places
Appledore, situated just off the A39 3 miles from the market town of Bideford is a very convenient base from which to explore North Devon and Cornwall. Tintagel and Boscastle are less than an hours drive. The spectacular rugged scenery of Hartland quay or the unique picturesque village of Clovelly only 30 minutes away. In the other direction driving east Woolacombe, Lyton and Lynmouth are all within easy reach.
Anyone with more than two or three days in the area should consider a cruise to Lundy Island, home of the seals, puffins and other sea birds. Three miles long and half a mile wide Lundy is owned by the National Trust and is a marine reserve. The ferry trip to Lundy takes about two hours and sails from the nearby town of Bideford.
Useful Links
The Big Sheep a world of fun. A North Devon attraction devoted to sheep.
The Appledore Book Festival 2008. Do come and join in the fun!
Mellstock House. A 4 star Edwardian guest house in the beautiful location of North Devon.