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What’s On This Easter In North Devon
28th February 2020

What’s On This Easter In North Devon

By Emily on Events, News

We are really looking forward to Easter coming to North Devon. In this season of delicious treats and family fun, you’ll find plenty of things to do around the area, with everything from top attractions hosting special days and activities during the holidays, to additional local events so you can really make the most of your holidays.

Easter is all about having fun with the family or just taking time out for yourself or as a couple. You’ll be spoilt for choice with the plethora of events and activities with everything on offer from hunting dinosaurs to riding on trams to marine exploration. Some of the events you can expect include Easter themed afternoon tea experiences, searching for Easter chicks, dinosaur egg hunts and craft workshops with arts and crafts all geared towards the holidays.

If you’re only really interested in the food available at Easter, then Devon is clearly the place to be. Restaurants and other eateries will be proudly showing off the wide range of local produce in their menus throughout the Easter holidays, so if you fancy some locally reared lamb, fresh veg, a hearty hot cross bun or even locally made chocolate eggs, you won’t be disappointed.

Here’s our what’s on Easter Guide:

30th March – 13th April 10:00 – 17:00

Find The Easter Chicks near Bideford

Children receive a village map on entry to Clovelly. 

This is to mark the location of a number of Easter chicks perched up and down the cobbled High Street to the quay.

1st April – 13th 10:00 – 18:00

Unique Easter Grotto at The Milky Way in Bideford

Ever wondered where the Easter Bunny’s magic is made? From Wednesday 1st April to Monday 13th April journey down the rabbit hole to the NEW expanded Easter Bunny HQ at The…

4th April 10:00 – 18:00

Meet Star Wars Characters at The Milky Way in Bideford

Star Wars fans will be excited to hear that Storm Troopers and other characters from the legendary films are coming to The Milky Way Adventure Park over the Easter holidays.…

6th April 9:00 – 12.15

Young@Heart Adventure Club in Bideford

Adventure days for adults looking to stay active, learn new skills and to have fun!

Meet every 1st Monday of the month for a fun active session of outdoor activities…

10th – 13th April 10:30 – 15:00

Cadbury Easter Trail

Woolacombe

Cadbury Easter Trail, Woolacombe …. What have the bunnies been hiding in the Woolacombe Sand Dunes?! This trail takes you on adventure around Woolacombe Warren to find the…

12th – 13th April 11.00 – 17:00

Easter Egg Hunt at Hartland Abbey Near Bideford

Come to Hartland Abbey for our great Easter Egg Hunt – follow clues around the beautiful gardens and walks to hunt for Easter eggs. Each child participant receives one!…

12th April 10:30 – 16:00

Lynton & Barnstaple Railway Easter Sunday Fun Day

Lots of fun things for kids to do FREE event.

(Although the event itself is free – fares still apply for train rides)

1st – 13th April 10.30 – 16.30

Watermouth Castle Family Theme Park & Castle Ilfracombe

30th March at 17:00

Kundalini Yoga Class

28th March & 4th April at 9:00 – 11:30

Woolacombe Dunes, Park Run – Free

Weekly Running & Walking every Saturday 9am. Free Event 5km event run by volunteers (arrive before 9am to receive briefing) You will need to sign up on the website beforehand to print off a barcode to bring on the day. Dogs are welcome, one per runner & on a short lead. Kids under 11yrs must be accompanied by an adult.

Tue, 28 April, 09:00 – 15:00

Ilfracombe Group Walk

From Lidl car park, Wilder Rd, Ilfracombe EX34 8BS, UK to Hartland Quay, Hartland Quay to then walk along the coastal path to the waterfall, inland to Stoke & back along the coast path (5 miles) Bring a picnic/ Pub at the end of walk.

Sat, 4 April, 10:00 – 12:30

Ilfracombe Farmers’ Market – The Lantern, Ilfracombe

Held on the first Saturday of each month, the market sells fresh local & organic produce, craft, refreshments & more.

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The D-Day North Devon Holiday Experience
10th May 2019

The D-Day North Devon Holiday Experience

By Emily on News

North Devon D-Day commemorations are taking place this June and the region is going to be hosting some fantastic events to mark the occasion. The centre piece, and a unique North Devon holiday experience,  will be a two day event on the wonderful Saunton Sands which will see the beach transformed into a snapshot from a different era on the weekend of June 15th/16th.

For many years, North Devon’s unique contribution to the D-Day landings was something of a hidden history. Between 1943 and 1944 it was the temporary home for over 10,000 American GIs who were mostly billeted in and around the villages of Woolacombe and Braunton. 

However, the annual Saunton D-Daycommemoration event has helped to put the region’s WW2 past on the map. In the past couple of years has attracted big crowds – with its mix of living history, period vehicle and airplane displays and educational activities – attracting visitors from around the country and beyond.   

This year will have added attraction as the event marks the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings and organisers are promising ‘one of the biggest battle displays’ the South West has ever seen! This is the only large scale living history event of its kind in the UK – taking place as it does at an actual WW2 site.  

North Devon’s D-Day History

How did they end up in North Devon? The D-Day invasion required an expeditionary force and final assault on mainland Europe that had no historical precedent. Launching attacks in occupied France from the UK’s south coast was a massive gamble that required intricate planning and coordination.

By the time the USA had committed to the exercise, the ‘best’ training spots were already taken up by the British and Canadian armies. They were offered a stretch of coastline that was deemed totally unsuitable for training – the beaches of Woolacombe, Croyde and Saunton and the sand dune system of Braunton Burrows. 

It was here that commanding officer, Brigadier General Paul Thompson established the Assault Training Center and worked on a blueprint for the impending invasion – training troops for the task of assaulting heavily defended beaches, which required mastering new weapons such as the bazooka rocket. 

As fate would have it, North Devon’s coastline turned out to be more than suitable for the task, with the steep dunes of Woolacombe in particular serving as a remarkably similar substitute for the terrain the GIs would encounter in northern France that fateful day in June 1944. 

The vital role the coastline played was reflected in a wonderful quote from Brigadier General Thompson, who once noted; “If Waterloo was won on the playing fields of Eton, surely the sands of the North Devon beaches contributed importantly to the success of the assault over the Normandy beaches”.

North Devon D-Day Commemoration: What to Expect?

The Saunton D-Day weekend is not the only event taking place to mark the 75th anniversary. In the month leading up to it, visitors can enjoy a D-Day inspired North Devon holiday experience thanks to a wider programme of events. The Devon D-Day initiative involves museumsacross the district, from micro exhibitions to special walks and talks with WW2 historians.

The Carlton Hotel, in Ilfracombe provides the perfect base to immerse yourself in the wartime experience, its high class en suite bedroomsproviding first class comfort after a day spent trudging on the front line of the D-Day North Devon  holiday experience.  Quite a change from the days when it accommodated billeted US troops from the Pay Corps during the Second World War!

And one doesn’t have to stray too far either to get a taste. On the doorstep, Ilfracombe and Mortehoe Museums host D-Day RememberedandWartime Woolacombe and Mortehoeexhibits. The Carlton is also just a 20 minute drive from the main Saunton beach event. 

Ilfracombe celebrates its own contributions to history with two events that have become permanent fixtures on the North Devon What’s On calendar. Throughout the month of June, the town will take its annual walk back in time to celebrate the Grand Victorian and Steampunk Festival which enjoys a reputation for being a great spectacle.

 Later on in the summer, The Carlton is supporting the Sea Ilfracombe Maritime Festival (the weekend of August 31st/September 1st) with our own special sea food dishes contributing to a celebration of all things sea based.

If you have an interest in history, especially 20th century and the WW2 experience, North Devon this summer provides a unique destination to visit. Contact the Carlton to book a stay and do it in style! Give us a call on 01271 862446 or email enquiries@ilfracombecarlton.co.uk.  

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Events That Sparkle
6th May 2019

Events That Sparkle

By Emily on Events

For that special birthday surprise. For that symbolic anniversary. For that reunion, you’ve been waiting years for. For that extra special wedding day. For that first baby shower. For that family gathering & Sunday roast. For that show stopping foodie treat. The Carlton is the perfect place to make your event sparkle and celebrate those special moments with loved ones that last forever for

Now fully refurbished and open all year round, The Carlton remains a great value venue for any occasion. With private dining for that special birthday surprise, or symbolic anniversary, or reunion that you’ve been waiting years for. The hotels fresh and well designed facilities are equally perfect for weddings, formal dinners, as well as smaller gatherings. Event spaces at the hotel have a capacity of up to 90 guests formal sit down, and flexibility to allow for dancing and entertainment.

Call us today on 01271 862446
or email enquiries@ilfracombecarlton.co.ukto book your table or special event.

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Sea Ilfracombe Maritime Festival
28th February 2019

Sea Ilfracombe Maritime Festival

By Emily on Local Area, News

Ilfracombe has a rich maritime history and its close links to the sea is one of the things we simply love about being here. Now whether that’s the day-to-day workings of the boats in the harbour; or the array of watersports and activities you can take part in; perhaps enjoying the fabulous seafood that come straight from the Atlantic waters or simply just setting out on the South West Coast Path and admiring the views across the ocean. Being close to the water is a must!

People often think of Ilfracombe as a Victorian seaside town, but its seafaring past goes way back – it’s played a huge part in the country’s maritime history. Did you know that the man who carried news of Nelson’s death home to England was born in Ilfracombe? Captain John Lapenotiere was a British Royal Navy officer and commanded the HMS Pickle which was at the Battle of Trafalgar.

Previously we have supported our local pilot gig boat club, so when the opportunity arised last year we set up stall at the local maritime festival called Sea Ilfracombe. You can see the team hard at work in the image above.

The Carlton At Sea Ilfracombe Festival

We’re really proud to help carry on this maritime tradition by taking part in the Sea Ilfracombe Maritime Festival. This years festival takes place on 31st August – 1st September 2019. It’s a celebration of everything to do with the sea and there’s loads going on.

Last year we were proud to have the support of Nathan from Passmores fishmongers to create our seafood dishes. So popular in fact, we sold out of the local oysters supplied by Phoebe Chope who picks and processes them on the Torridge, just outside Instow.

We really enjoyed meeting lots of people who came along to enjoy an oyster or 2, with one of our gorgeous dressings, or our special seafood risotto. We couldn’t resist having some of Eliot’s famous hand-made scotch eggs too, made with flaked Exmoor ham hock, Farmer Bob’s free range eggs, fresh herbs and fennel – with piccalilli on the side!

We even had lots of Vegan options too!

Take a look at Sea Ilfracombe Festival 2018, and you can be sure we will be back his year.

https://ilfracombecarlton.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Sea-Ilfracombe-Maritime-Festival-360p.mp4
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New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner & Dance
18th October 2018

New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner & Dance

By Emily on Events, News

Bid farewell to the old and see in the new with our evening of fine food, dancing and entertainment.

Programme

  • 3 pm Complimentary drinks in the hotel bar
  • 3 pm Six course themed dinner
  • 3 pm Dancing with our resident DJ until late
  • 12 am Chimes of Big Ben – Happy New Year!
  • Dancing continues
  • 1 am Bacon sandwiches, tea & coffee

Into 2019

Arrive and enjoy your complimentary drink with canapés in our lounge bar with background music. Take time over your six-course menu, with choices at every stage. Dance through the night with our resident DJ playing the best sounds in town. Pause at midnight to welcome in 2019. Wind down with hot bacon rolls served at 1 am or relax in the bar.

 

Gala Dinner Menu

Whisky cured salmon cucumber ketchup

Celeriac & apple soup ciabatta & Somerset butter

Vegetable terrine harissa roasted peppers  VG

***

Pear sorbet with kirsch VG

***

Scotch egg flaked ham hock & piccalilli relish

***

Fillet of West Country beef Madeira jus, baby vegetables, Dauphinoise potatoes

Loin of Devon cod pea & lemon risotto, mussel broth

Winter root vegetable & marjoram tart V

***

Rich chocolate pot candied orange

Lemon tart raspberry coulis V

***

West Country cheese board apple chutney, crackers & celery

***

Coffee & petit fours

 

V = vegetarian VG = vegan

Overnight & more

Make a break with the addition of one or two extra nights’ accommodation at The Carlton. Choose from our range of rooms to suit your budget with or without dinner included.

Per person        £65 dinner

Download details.

A non-refundable deposit of £50 will be charged on booking.

Call us on 01271 862446 or email enquiries@ilfracombecarlton.co.ukto make your reservation or allow us to answer your enquiry.

 

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What’s on in Ilfracombe August 2018
3rd August 2018

What’s on in Ilfracombe August 2018

By Eliot Wren on Local Area, News

We have so many events going on in Ilfracombe this summer, that we’re not sure if we’ve got room to list all of them – but we’ve given it a go!

Devon Street Food Festival 10 – 12 August

Whether it’s mac and cheese, a plate of charcuterie or a taste of Morocco, you’ll be spoilt for choice at this fabulous foodie festival. It’s been running for three years, rolling into town each summer and bringing both local and national stalls offering just about everything. It runs from midday until 10pm. There’s a pop up bar too – but if you need a break from all of the bustle, you can always pop in and visit our relaxing bar for extra refreshments.

South West Birdman 11 August

And now for something completely different! Locals make home-made flying machines, then throw themselves off the harbour wall in an effort to ‘fly’ as far as they can. It’s great to watch and has an amazing atmosphere. There’s lots of extra entertainment too, including live music, craft and charity stalls, and much more – if you can tear yourself away from the antics in the sea.

Ilfracombe Beer, Food and Music Festival 25 – 26 August

This festival has some 70s glamour added in! The beer festival, based at the Landmark Theatre, is a long running and popular event in the town. It’s a very chilled atmosphere, and there are lots of good beers to try and plenty of food and music to go with it.

This year it coincides with the show ‘Dancing Queen’ at the theatre. What could make for a better party than a return to the 70s? There’s a competition too for the best fancy dress outfit. Why not book a room at The Carlton? Enjoy the show, stay overnight in one of our fabulous modern rooms, and then head back to the festival the next day.

Mini Madness and Ilfracombe Carnival 26 – 27 August

We’ve saved the biggest events for the Bank Holiday weekend: the Ilfracombe Carnival is happening on 26 August, with the Mini Madness event the next day. The carnival is huge fun and a real community event, and as for the Minis, well who can resist a Mini? This is the little cars’ annual Grand Tour, which luckily winds up in Ilfracombe, so you get the chance to have a really good look at them.

Sea Ilfracombe Maritime Festival 1 – 2 September

So this one’s in September, but we had to mention it as it’s such a wonderful event. We also have a stall this year, so come along and say hello, we’d love to meet you. There’ll be a great selection of seafood treats to eat, produce to buy and you can feast away to the sounds of live music – from shanty songs to ska and rock and roll. It’s a great atmosphere and we’re thrilled to be taking part. Keep an eye on our Facebook page for more details…

The Tour of Britain cycle race also charges through the town the next day, 3 September.

It’s all happening in Ilfracombe!

Time to Relax …

Visiting Ilfracombe and going to an event?  Why not book your accommodation in Ilfracombe now? Relax in one of our stylish rooms and enjoy an evening of delicious, locally sourced, lovingly prepared food in our newly refurbished brasserie.

CHECK AVAILABILITY AND BOOK
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What’s on in Ilfracombe August 2017
25th July 2017

What’s on in Ilfracombe August 2017

By Eliot Wren on Local Area

If you’re lucky enough to be coming on holiday to Ilfracombe this summer, then you’ll be pleased to know that the whole town delights in putting on a huge range of events for our visitors to enjoy.

But what’s on in Ilfracombe while you stay with us?  We have everything here from farmers markets to South West Birdman competition – and everything inbetween!  There’s certainly sure to be something for you to enjoy, we know how to entertain in Ilfracombe.

Don’t Miss…

We have put together a list of our favourite events in Ilfracombe throughout August for our guests to enjoy – ‘What’s on in Ilfracombe’.  We hope this gives you some inspiration of things to enjoy whilst you visit us and for even more ideas, our next blog will reveal our favourite picnic spots in North Devon.

 

5 August – South West Birdman

An event not to be missed – the ever eventful South West Birdman!  Thrill seekers ‘fly’ off Ilfracombe pier in their own creations in an attempt to ‘fly’ the furthest before landing in the sea.  Who will win this year?  Read more here.

 

13, 20, 27 August – Music on the Bandstand

Relax in Runnymeade Gardens to the sounds of live music as Ilfracombe presents Bands on the Bandstand.  Each Sunday between 2-4pm a different live band will perform for free for all to enjoy.

 

27 August – Ilfracombe Carnival

Summer wouldn’t be complete without the annual Ilfracombe Carnival.  The parade sets off at 6pm and arrives at Broad Street at approximately 8pm, leaving plenty of time for dinner or a quick drink at The Carlton Hotel.  A highly enjoyable evening, it also raises money for local charities.

 

28 August – Mini Madness

The Annual Grand Tour ends here in Ilfracombe and what a display they put on for us!  It takes up to 20 minutes for all the mini’s, decorated in their own unique styles, to drive past one by one before reaching The Landmark.

 

Time to Relax…

Visiting Ilfracombe and going to an event?  Why not book your accommodation in Ilfracombe now? Relax in one of our stylish rooms and enjoy an evening of delicious, locally sourced, lovingly prepared food in our newly refurbished brasserie.

CHECK AVAILABILITY AND BOOK
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South West Birdman 2017, Ilfracombe
21st July 2017

South West Birdman 2017, Ilfracombe

By Eliot Wren on Local Area

If you’re visiting Ilfracombe in August you are in for a treat!

On Saturday 5th August 2017 Ilfracombe plays host to the crowd drawing South West Birdman competition.  Set to be a day to remember, adventurous thrill seekers will be ‘flying’ off of Ilfracombe pier in their spectacular home-made creations, competing for the title of South West Birdman 2017.

Last year saw spectacular creations and year on year the designs and creativity of the entrants never ceases to amaze.  We’re really looking forward to seeing what 2017 brings.

What’s on at South West Birdman, 5th August 2017

The event officially opens to the public at 11am with competitors taking flight from 4pm.  Not to miss are the rescue display, fireworks display, bar, stalls and entertainment too.  There’s even a Pimms and Prosecco tent!

fireworks start at 9.45pm in ilfracombeThe schedule of events for South West Birdman are:

  • 11am open to the public
  • 3pm rescue display
  • 4pm the competition begins!
  • 9.45pm fireworks

There’s even time to stop by The Carlton Hotel for a glass of something cool and fizzy or enjoy a delicious dinner in our relaxed brasserie.

A day to remember

We can’t make any promises, but we have put our order in for some sunshine for that weekend, so fingers crossed for a glorious day.  It looks like South West Birdman 2017 is set to be a day you won’t want to miss.

There’s still time to book your break, what better excuse to visit Ilfracombe than to see the South West Birdman competition?  Check availability and book now.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Carlton Hotel, Ilfracombe.

Book Now
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The Carlton Hotel, Runnacleave Road, Ilfracombe, Devon, EX34 8AR

Tel: 01271 862446

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