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.