Small river craft
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Instow Appledore Ferry

4.8
·16 reviews·Appledore, United Kingdom

A charming ferry connecting Instow and Appledore, offering scenic estuary views and easy access to picturesque villages.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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Small river craft

Instow Appledore Ferry

Best Time

Weekends

Lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming ferry connecting Instow and Appledore, offering scenic estuary views and easy access to picturesque villages. Reddit

4.8
(16 reviews)

"Friendly & helpful staff, quick trip, very little wait time to board and Dog friendly. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🐶 Dog-Friendly Journey

Bring your furry friends along! The ferry is dog-friendly, making it easy to explore with your pet.

🚲 Bike Transport

Cycling enthusiasts rejoice! The ferry crew is accommodating for those traveling with bikes.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scenic Water Crossing

Scenic Water Crossing

Instow to Appledore

Enjoy a quick, scenic boat ride across the estuary, offering lovely views of the coastline and villages.

Reddit
Appledore Village Charm

Appledore Village Charm

Appledore Quay

Explore the picturesque fishing village of Appledore, with its narrow streets and maritime history.

Reddit
Instow Beachfront

Instow Beachfront

Instow Beach

Relax on Instow's sandy beach, perfect for a stroll or enjoying fresh seafood with a view.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Ferry Schedule & Weather

Check the ferry schedule before you go, as it can vary seasonally. High winds or rough seas might affect service, so a quick weather check is wise. Reddit

Cash or Card?

While many services are going cashless, it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller ferry operators or local vendors, just in case. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Best for exploring
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter experience
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Instow area recommendations

🐶 Dog-Friendly Journey

Bring your furry friends along! The ferry is dog-friendly, making it easy to explore with your pet. Reddit

🚲 Bike Transport

Cycling enthusiasts rejoice! The ferry crew is accommodating for those traveling with bikes. Reddit

🍽️ Lunch in Appledore

Head to Appledore for lunch; The Royal George offers quality food, though it can be a bit pricey. Reddit

🍤 Seafood Delights

Don't miss the fresh seafood at Glorious Oyster on Instow beach, a local favorite. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🐶 Dog-Friendly Journey

Bring your furry friends along! The ferry is dog-friendly, making it easy to explore with your pet. Reddit

🚲 Bike Transport

Cycling enthusiasts rejoice! The ferry crew is accommodating for those traveling with bikes. Reddit

🍽️ Lunch in Appledore

Head to Appledore for lunch; The Royal George offers quality food, though it can be a bit pricey. Reddit

🍤 Seafood Delights

Don't miss the fresh seafood at Glorious Oyster on Instow beach, a local favorite. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(16 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Travelers consistently praise the Instow Appledore ferry for its friendly and helpful staff, quick journey, and dog-friendly policy. The scenic views and ease of access to Appledore for lunch are also highlights. Some minor delays have been noted, but overall, the experience is highly recommended for its charm and convenience.

"My mum and grandma went on this and they loved it. The sea looks choppy though, and they plan on getting a new boat this year, 2023, I would recommend it."

Baryonyxbro

"friendly & helpful staff, quick trip, very little wait time to board and Dog friendly. Nice way to get across the water for some lunch, thanks 😊"

Josie Lovelock

"Except for the longer wait than anticipated. The ferry experience was delightful, all the staff were friendly and polite, and the journey was quick."

Heather Grinyer

What People Like

Friendly and helpful staff
Dog-friendly service
Quick and scenic trip

What People Dislike

Occasional longer waits

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Instow Appledore ferry operates between Instow Quay and Appledore Quay. It's a popular way to travel between the two villages, offering a scenic short trip. Reddit

Ferry hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the latest schedule online or inquire locally, especially during off-peak times. Reddit

While specific accessibility details can vary, many users report a smooth boarding process. It's advisable to contact the ferry operator directly for detailed accessibility information. Reddit

Yes, the ferry is accommodating for cyclists. The crew is known to be helpful with bikes, making it a great option for exploring the area on two wheels. Reddit

The journey across the estuary is typically very quick, often described as a short trip, making it an efficient way to travel between Instow and Appledore. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Fares are generally reasonable for the short crossing. While specific prices can change, it's a cost-effective way to enjoy the views and reach your destination. Reddit

Advance booking is usually not required for the Instow to Appledore ferry. You can typically purchase tickets upon boarding or at the quay. Reddit

While many services are moving towards card payments, it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller operators or in case of technical issues. Reddit

Information on specific discounts can vary. It's recommended to check with the ferry operator directly or look for signage at the ferry terminal for any available concessions. Reddit

Delays can sometimes occur due to weather or operational reasons. The staff are generally friendly and will keep passengers informed. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Appledore offers charming streets, independent shops, and the Royal George pub for a meal. It's a great place to wander and soak in the maritime atmosphere. Reddit

Instow boasts the Glorious Oyster on the beach for seafood, and there are other eateries along the waterfront. Reddit

Yes, the short and scenic ferry ride is generally enjoyable for children. It's a fun little adventure for the whole family. Reddit

Expect lovely views of the estuary, the surrounding coastline, and the picturesque villages of Instow and Appledore. Reddit

Yes, you can bring luggage. The ferry is designed for passenger transport, and staff are usually helpful with boarding. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Instow Appledore ferry is a fantastic, short adventure for families. The quick boat ride is exciting for children, and the views are captivating. Once in Appledore, exploring the quay and imagining life as a sailor can be fun. Instow beach is also great for kids to play on. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, and check the ferry schedule to make the most of your day. Reddit

🐶 Pet Owners

This ferry is a dream for pet owners! It's explicitly dog-friendly, meaning your canine companions can easily join you on the crossing. This opens up opportunities to explore both Appledore and Instow with your furry friend by your side. Just ensure your dog is well-behaved and on a lead. Reddit

🚴 Cyclists

For cyclists, the Instow Appledore ferry is an excellent way to connect routes or simply enjoy a scenic break. The crew is known to be accommodating with bikes, making the transfer seamless. You can easily incorporate this ferry ride into a larger cycling tour of the North Devon coast. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Appledore: A Riverside Gem

Appledore, a historic fishing village, is a delight to explore after your ferry ride. Wander through its narrow, winding streets, often referred to as 'Gutters,' and discover independent shops and art galleries. The quay area is particularly charming, offering views of the estuary and the bustling boatyards. It's a place where maritime heritage is palpable, with colourful cottages and a strong connection to the sea. Reddit

For a taste of local life and history, consider visiting the North Devon Maritime Museum. The village also boasts several pubs and eateries. The Royal George is a well-regarded option for a meal, though it can be on the pricier side. Appledore provides a peaceful yet engaging atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Reddit

Instow: Beachfront Bliss and Local Flavors

Instow offers a different, more relaxed vibe, centered around its expansive sandy beach. The beachfront is ideal for a leisurely stroll, with stunning views across the Taw Estuary towards Appledore. It's a popular spot for families and dog walkers alike. Reddit

A standout culinary experience in Instow is the Glorious Oyster, located in the dunes, which serves up delicious fresh seafood and wine. It's the perfect place to unwind after your ferry journey or a day of exploring. The village itself has a charming, laid-back feel, making it a pleasant place to spend time. Reddit

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