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Clovelly is a unique and picturesque village located on the North Devon coast in England. This privately owned village is renowned for its steep, cobbled streets and charming, traditional cottages, which cascade down a cliffside to a small harbor. Clovelly has been owned by the same family for over 400 years, which has helped preserve its historic character and charm.
The main street, known simply as “Up-a-long” or “Down-a-long”, is too steep for motor vehicles, so sledges and donkey rides are common forms of transport for goods and visitors. The village is also famous for its beautiful, flower-strewn cottages, stunning sea views, and the serene atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time.
Visitors to Clovelly can enjoy a range of activities, from exploring the local maritime museum to taking boat trips from the harbor. The village also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including a popular lobster and crab feast that celebrates the local fishing heritage. Despite its modest size, Clovelly offers a memorable glimpse into rural and coastal English life preserved from centuries past.
Clovelly’s history is deeply intertwined with its unique geography and the continuity of ownership that has helped preserve its character through the centuries. The village’s origins trace back to the Iron Age, and it has been continuously inhabited since then. Clovelly is mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, which indicates its long-standing significance through the medieval period.
The village came into the Giffard family through marriage in the 13th century, and later passed to the Cary family in 1371. It was under the Cary family’s ownership that Clovelly began to develop significantly. In the 16th century, the village was sold to the lawyers William and John Abbott, and their descendants, the Hamlyn family, have owned it since 1738.
Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, Clovelly was primarily a fishing village, with a strong maritime economy based on herring and mackerel fishing. The preservation of its unique character began in earnest in the late 19th century under Christine Hamlyn, who restored many of Clovelly’s buildings and supported the local craft and fishing industries. Her efforts laid the foundation for the village’s ongoing preservation and its status as a tourist attraction today.
The 20th century saw Clovelly adapting to modern times while maintaining its historical essence, transforming from a working fishing village into a heritage site that attracts visitors from around the world. The absence of cars on the main street and the traditional methods of transport (like sledges and donkeys) continue to lend a timeless atmosphere to this historic village.
****Suggest things to do in Clovelly for a half day trip.
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For a half-day trip to Clovelly, there are several enjoyable activities you can indulge in to make the most of your visit. Here are some recommended activities:
1. Explore the Cobbled Streets: Start your visit with a stroll down the steep, cobbled main street, admiring the quaint, beautifully preserved cottages adorned with flowers. Take in the views of the harbor as you descend towards the sea.
2. Visit the Clovelly Visitor Centre: At the entrance to the village, the visitor center offers exhibitions that provide insights into the village’s history, culture, and the maritime environment. It’s a good introduction to what makes Clovelly special.
3. Enjoy the Harbour and Beach: Once you reach the bottom of the village, spend some time at the harbor. You can relax by the water, enjoy the beach, or even dip your toes in the sea if the weather permits.
4. Take a Boat Trip: If the weather and time allow, consider taking a boat trip from the harbor. These trips offer a different perspective of the coastline and can be a refreshing way to see the scenic views around Clovelly.
5. Visit the Fisherman’s Cottage: This small museum located near the harbor provides a glimpse into the life of a Clovelly fisherman in the 1930s. It’s a quick but informative visit that adds depth to your understanding of the village’s fishing heritage.
6. Check Out the Craft Workshops: Clovelly also hosts several craft workshops where you can see local artisans at work. You might find anything from pottery to traditional maritime crafts being made.
7. Grab a Bite: Don’t forget to try some local cuisine. The Red Lion by the harbour offers fresh seafood and traditional English meals. There are also several quaint tea rooms where you can enjoy Devon cream teas, a must-try local delicacy.Given the limited time, this itinerary offers a balanced view of both the historical and natural attractions that make Clovelly a memorable destination. Enjoy your visit!
****Any local food speciality?
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Clovelly is renowned for its seafood, which plays a significant role in the local cuisine due to its coastal location. Here are some of the local specialties you might want to try when visiting:
1. Clovelly Lobster and Crab: These are the stars of Clovelly’s culinary scene, celebrated each year with the Clovelly Lobster and Crab Feast. Both are usually served fresh, often simply steamed or boiled to showcase their natural flavors.
2. Devon Cream Tea: While not unique to Clovelly, no visit to Devon is complete without enjoying a traditional cream tea. This includes scones, clotted cream, and strawberry jam, accompanied by a pot of tea.
3. Fish and Chips: Available at local eateries, this British classic is made with freshly caught fish and is best enjoyed by the seaside.
4. Cider: Devon is also known for its cider, and Clovelly offers some local varieties that are worth trying, made from apples grown in nearby orchards.
5. Pasties: A popular snack throughout Devon and Cornwall, pasties (a type of pastry filled with meat and vegetables) are perfect for a quick bite as you explore the village.These specialties reflect the traditional and maritime influences on Clovelly’s cuisine, providing a taste of local culture and history.