Visit Ilfracombe by train & bus

Visit Ilfracombe and discover its famous beaches and coves, historic harbour and great local food.

It’s easy by train and onward bus. Take the scenic Tarka Line from Exeter to Barnstaple, then hop on the 21 bus opposite the railway station.

PLACES TO EXPLORE
In our video, we enjoyed some delicious fish and Chips from The Dolphin, learned about local sea life at Ilfracombe Aquarium, admired the statue of Verity and explored the famous Tunnel Beaches.

Map tiles by Stamen Design, under CC BY 3.0. Data by OpenStreetMap, under ODbL.

GETTING THERE
Trains to Barnstaple depart hourly from Exeter St David’s and Exeter Central, seven days a week. Arriving into Barnstaple, head to Bus Stop B that’s opposite the railway station to take the 21 to Ilfracombe. Bus departures are conveniently timed with trains. Buses run every half hour through most of the day (Mon-Sat), hourly on Sundays.

JOURNEY TIME
The train from Exeter to Barnstaple takes 1hr 10min. From Barnstaple railway station, the bus takes an hour.

More to Explore

Walks from the railway

Rail Ale Trails

Foodie Guides

Beaches by train