Northam Burrows Country Park
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Northam Burrows Country Park

4.7
·1k reviews·Northam, United Kingdom

A unique coastal landscape of grassy plains, salt marshes, and sand dunes, famed for its pebble ridge and ephemeral art.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, Summer mornings

Fewer crowds, better light for photos

CrowdMedium
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Northam Burrows Country Park

Northam Burrows Country Park

Best Time

Weekdays, Summer mornings

Fewer crowds, better light for photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A unique coastal landscape of grassy plains, salt marshes, and sand dunes, famed for its pebble ridge and ephemeral art.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"Stunning vistas, golden sand, a spectacular pebble ridge and easy parking."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Wear comfortable shoes

Terrain varies from sand to marsh; sturdy footwear is essential for exploring. :athletic_shoe:

🧥 Pack for wind and rain

Coastal weather can change quickly; a waterproof and windproof jacket is recommended. :cloudwithrain:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Pebble Ridge

The Pebble Ridge

Connecting Northam Burrows to Westward Ho! Beach

A spectacular natural barrier of smooth pebbles, offering stunning views and a unique walking experience.

Sandymere Beach Art

Sandymere Beach Art

Sandymere Beach

Discover ephemeral art created from natural materials, showcasing the beauty of the coastline and inspiring creativity.

TikTokInstagram
Coastal Plain and Salt Marsh

Coastal Plain and Salt Marsh

Throughout the park

Explore diverse habitats, from grassy plains to tidal salt marshes, teeming with wildlife and offering breathtaking vistas.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

Northam Burrows can get busy, especially in summer when it's a gateway to Westward Ho! beach. Consider visiting during weekdays or outside peak summer months for a more peaceful exploration of its unique coastal landscape and wildlife. Instagram

Navigating Northam Burrows

While the main car park is large, the toll booth is closed from October to Easter, but access remains possible. Be prepared for blustery winds and bring appropriate footwear for varied terrain, from sandy paths to marshland. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, Summer mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Golden light, migrating birds
Crowd
Low
When
Spring, outside school holidays
Why
Wildflowers bloom, pleasant temperatures
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Currents of February made at Sandymere beach on February 25,2025 at Sandymere beach, North Devon, Soutwest England #beachart #ephemeralart #commentintiktok #northamburrowscountrypark #february #springiscoming #landart #fyp #natureart #artistoninstagram #seashels #pebbles #spiral #inspiredfromnature #natureinspiredart #natureinspiration
@beach4art
946 likes • 24K views

🚶‍♀️ Wear comfortable shoes

Terrain varies from sand to marsh; sturdy footwear is essential for exploring. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

🧥 Pack for wind and rain

Coastal weather can change quickly; a waterproof and windproof jacket is recommended. Reddit :cloudwithrain:

NORTHAM BURROWS COUNTRY PARK // AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) I went for a walk on the burrows this morning, looking at the environment in terms of print and considering the textures in the landscape and around the park. #aonb #sketchwalks #photowalk #creativeprocess #printmaker #devonartist
emj_artwork
7 likes • 132 views
Went to Northam Burrows Country Park to help with their water germander survey today! #survey #nature
northdevoncoastnl
16 likes • 756 views

🐶 Dog-friendly exploration

A great spot for dogs, but be mindful of wildlife and other visitors. Instagram+1 :dog:

🎨 Appreciate land art

Look out for beautiful ephemeral art made from natural materials. TikTokInstagram :art:

Red Squirrel 🐿️ made at Northam Burrows country park area, Skern by Appledore from natural materials found at the same spot. Made in 6 hours by family of 2 #beachart #landart #inspiredbynature #wellbeing #ephemeralart #landart #environmentalart #stayclosetonature #artistoninstagram #naturalmaterials #northamburrowscountrypark #redsquirrel #redsquirrelsofinstagram🐿️
beach4art
3K likes • 18.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Wear comfortable shoes

Terrain varies from sand to marsh; sturdy footwear is essential for exploring. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

🧥 Pack for wind and rain

Coastal weather can change quickly; a waterproof and windproof jacket is recommended. Reddit :cloudwithrain:

🐶 Dog-friendly exploration

A great spot for dogs, but be mindful of wildlife and other visitors. Instagram+1 :dog:

🎨 Appreciate land art

Look out for beautiful ephemeral art made from natural materials. TikTokInstagram :art:

☕ Visit the cafe

A welcome pitstop for coffee and cake, especially after a walk. Reddit :coffee:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Northam Burrows for its stunning natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and the unique pebble ridge. The helpfulness of parking staff and the presence of a good cafe are frequently highlighted positives. Some minor drawbacks include the potential for blustery winds and the busy nature of the park during peak summer months.

"Stunning vistas, Golden sand, a spectacular pebble ridge and easy parking. There's also a very good café. RNLI keep everything safe too."

Shaun Pollard

"Beautiful place. The diversity of nature is breathtaking. Car parking staff are so helpful"

Tara Powell

"Very nice place to visit with or without a furry friend. Great views out to sea or across the estuary to Burton Burrows. There is a lovely cafe near to the main car park. Look out for the golf balls while walking. While walking you can walk from Westward Ho! all the way to Northam and Appledore, on land or on the beach when the tide is out."

Bruce Stacey

What People Like

Stunning vistas and views
Diverse natural habitats
Spectacular pebble ridge

What People Dislike

Can be blustery
Busy in summer

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Northam Burrows Country Park is accessible by car, with a large car park located behind the sea defence stones. The toll booth is closed from October to Easter, but you can still access the car park via a small track. Instagram It's also reachable on foot or by bike from nearby Westward Ho!, Northam, and Appledore, especially at low tide. Reddit

While direct public transport to the park itself might be limited, you can reach nearby Westward Ho! by bus and then enjoy a scenic walk to Northam Burrows. Check local bus schedules for routes serving the Westward Ho! area. Instagram

There is a large car park available, which is particularly useful during the summer months when it serves as a main access point to Westward Ho! beach. Instagram Parking staff are noted as being helpful. Reddit

Yes, cycling is a great way to explore Northam Burrows and the surrounding coastline. There are paths that allow for cycling, and it's a pleasant route from nearby towns. Instagram

The park offers relatively flat terrain in many areas, making it accessible for wheelchair users. However, some paths may be sandy or uneven, so checking specific accessibility routes beforehand is advisable. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While the park itself is a natural landscape, there may be parking charges. The toll booth is closed seasonally, but access is generally maintained. Instagram

Northam Burrows Country Park is a natural landscape and is generally accessible at all times. However, facilities like the cafe may have specific operating hours. Instagram

No, tickets are not typically required for entry to Northam Burrows Country Park as it is an open natural area. Parking fees may apply. Instagram

Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment and wildlife. During peak times, it can get busy, especially as it's a gateway to Westward Ho! beach. Instagram

The cafe is believed to still be open, though it's best to check current operating status, especially outside of the main summer season. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Northam Burrows is a haven for diverse wildlife, including birds in its salt marshes and coastal plains. Water germander surveys are conducted here, highlighting its ecological importance. Instagram You might also spot sheep and horses grazing. Reddit

Popular activities include walking, dog walking, exploring the pebble ridge, and enjoying the coastal scenery. It's also a base for surf lessons at nearby Westward Ho! Instagram Nature art and photography are also enjoyed here. TikTokInstagram+1

Absolutely! The park offers stunning vistas, diverse landscapes, and opportunities to capture unique natural art. The long morning shadows and coastal light are particularly photogenic. TikTokInstagram

Yes, you can walk from Northam Burrows to Westward Ho! Beach, especially at low tide. The pebble ridge connects the two areas and offers a unique walking experience. Reddit

There is a visitor centre that offers a welcome pitstop for coffee and cake. Reddit A cafe is also located near the main car park. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe located near the main car park that serves coffee and cake, making it a welcome pitstop. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! Northam Burrows is a beautiful natural area perfect for a picnic. Remember to take all your rubbish with you to help keep the park clean. Instagram

The cafe is known for offering coffee and cake, providing a pleasant break during your visit. Reddit

The park is adjacent to Westward Ho!, which offers a range of dining options from casual cafes to restaurants. Instagram

While the cafe offers refreshments, for a wider variety of takeaway options, you might explore the nearby village of Westward Ho! Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The entire park offers stunning photographic opportunities, from the vast coastal plains and salt marshes to the unique pebble ridge. The interplay of light and shadow, especially in the early morning, is captivating. TikTokInstagram

Nature photography, landscape photography, and capturing ephemeral art are very popular. The diverse habitats also attract wildlife photographers. TikTokInstagram+1

Early mornings offer beautiful soft light and long shadows across the dunes and paths. Instagram Golden hour in the late afternoon can also provide stunning light for coastal shots. Reddit

Keep an eye out for the unique land art installations, the diverse birdlife in the salt marshes, the dramatic pebble ridge, and the expansive sea views. TikTokInstagram+1

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions or capturing long exposures of the sea. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Northam Burrows Country Park is a fantastic destination for families. The open spaces are perfect for children to run around and explore, and the varied landscape offers plenty of natural wonders to discover. Building sandcastles on the nearby Westward Ho! beach, searching for seashells, and looking for ephemeral art are all engaging activities. TikTokInstagram The relatively flat terrain makes it manageable for little legs, and the cafe provides a convenient spot for snacks and breaks. Reddit Remember to pack sun protection and perhaps a change of clothes for potential splashes in the marshy areas.

🐶 Dog Owners

Northam Burrows is a paradise for dog owners, offering vast open spaces for your furry friends to roam and play. It's a dog-friendly destination where dogs can enjoy the coastal air and diverse terrain. Instagram+1 While exploring, be mindful of the wildlife, especially ground-nesting birds, and ensure your dog is under control. The park is also a great place for you to enjoy a walk alongside your canine companion, taking in the stunning sea views. Reddit

🎨 Art and Nature Enthusiasts

For those who appreciate the intersection of art and nature, Northam Burrows is a must-visit. The park is known for its ephemeral land art, created from natural materials found on-site, offering a unique visual experience. TikTokInstagram+1 Photographers will find endless inspiration in the dramatic coastal landscapes, the changing light, and the intricate details of the natural environment. Instagram The park's diverse habitats also make it an excellent location for wildlife observation and sketching. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Diverse Habitats

Northam Burrows Country Park is a unique landscape characterized by its grassy coastal plain, salt marshes, and sand dunes. This semi-wild environment is a haven for a variety of flora and fauna. The salt marshes, which are flooded at high tide, create a dynamic ecosystem that supports specialized plant life and attracts numerous bird species. Instagram Visitors can observe this rich biodiversity through well-maintained paths that wind through these distinct zones. Instagram

The park's natural beauty is further enhanced by its location, offering views across the estuary to Burton Burrows and out to sea. Reddit This diverse environment makes it a fascinating place for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking a tranquil escape. The presence of both grazing animals like sheep and horses alongside the natural habitats showcases a unique blend of managed and wild landscapes. Reddit

Art and Creativity at the Coast

Northam Burrows has become a canvas for ephemeral art, with artists creating stunning pieces from natural materials found on the beach and in the park. These land art installations, often inspired by nature itself, are a temporary yet captivating addition to the landscape. From intricate spirals made of shells and pebbles to depictions of local wildlife like red squirrels, these artworks highlight the creative potential of the natural environment. TikTokInstagram+1

These artistic expressions not only beautify the park but also encourage visitors to engage with their surroundings in a more mindful way. The temporary nature of the art serves as a reminder of the ever-changing coastal environment. TikTok Many visitors find inspiration in these creations, with some even participating in creating their own art during their visit. Instagram

Activities and Recreation

Beyond its natural beauty, Northam Burrows offers a range of recreational activities. It's a popular spot for dog walkers, with ample space for canine companions to explore. Instagram+1 The park also serves as a gateway to Westward Ho! beach, making it a convenient starting point for surfing lessons and other water sports. Instagram The Royal North Devon Golf Club is also situated within the park, adding another dimension to its recreational offerings. Instagram

For those who enjoy a more relaxed pace, the park provides excellent opportunities for walking and exploring. The relatively flat terrain makes it accessible for many, and the scenic routes offer beautiful views of the sea and estuary. Reddit The presence of a cafe and visitor centre adds to the convenience, providing places to rest and refuel. Reddit

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