Holsworthy is a charming market town located in the heart of Devon, in the south west of England. With its picturesque countryside, charming streets, and friendly locals, Holsworthy is a great destination for a short break or a longer holiday.
We’ve written a guide to tell you everything you need to know about visiting Holsworthy, including how to get there, what to do, where to stay, and where to eat.
Getting to Holsworthy
Holsworthy is located in north Devon, close to the border with Cornwall. It is easily accessible by car, with the town being located just off the A30, which is the main road running through Devon. Holsworthy is also well-served by public transport, with regular buses running from nearby towns and cities, including Exeter and Plymouth. The nearest train station is at Exeter, which is around 45 minutes away by car or bus.
Things to do in Holsworthy
There is plenty to see and do in and around Holsworthy, whether you are looking for outdoor activities, cultural attractions, or just want to relax and enjoy the countryside. Here are some of the top things to do in and around Holsworthy:
Visit the Holsworthy Museum
Located in the heart of the town, the Holsworthy Museum is a small but fascinating museum that tells the story of the town and its history. The museum is home to a range of exhibits, including artefacts from the town’s past, photographs, and local memorabilia. It is a great place to learn more about Holsworthy and its history.
Explore the countryside & Coast
Holsworthy is surrounded by beautiful coast and countryside, with rolling hills, ancient woods, and picturesque villages all within easy reach.
There are plenty of walking and cycling trails to explore, as well as a range of outdoor activities to enjoy, including horse riding, fishing, and golf – all perfect activities for more adventurous teenagers!
Holsworthy is also a short drive away not only from the north Devon coast, but also the north Cornwall coast, which is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country.
Popular destinations include the golden sands of Woolacombe, the surfers’ paradise of Croyde, and the charming fishing village of Clovelly, and the lovely beachside town of Bude.
Explore the local farmers market
Holsworthy is home to a weekly market, which is held on a Thursday. The market is a great place to pick up fresh local produce, including fruit and vegetables, meat, and seafood. It is also a great place to find local crafts and souvenirs.
Visit National Trust Dunsland
Just a 20-minute drive from Holsworthy, National Trust Dunsland is a beautiful parkland and the site of the old manor house of Dunsland.
Sadly the house was destroyed by a fire in 1967 shortly after the National Trust spent years restoring it, and they made the difficult decision to demolish the structure of the manor.
Today you’re able to explore the beautiful parkland, fish ponds, secret gardens, old coachhouse, and other features that remain. The park and gardens are full of ancient Oak and Chestnut trees, and with nature reclaiming the land it has become a haven for rare wildlife and plants.
Accommodation in Holsworthy
There’s a range of accommodation options in and around Holsworthy, including hotels, guest houses, B&Bs, and self-catering cottages. Whether you are looking for a luxurious hotel, a cozy B&B, or a self-catering cottage in the countryside, you will find something to suit your needs and budget.
Clawford Lakes is set within a 80-acre wildlife haven and located within a beautiful unspoilt valley just a 10-minute drive from Holsworthy. Home to a range of high-end holiday accommodation all nestled around 17 lakes with unique and quirky Luxury Cocoon, Lake Pods and Floating lodges, in addition to the Luxury Lodges and Apartments.
In nearby Kilkhampton is East Thorne, one of the top glamping spots in nearby Cornwall. This wooden yurt retreat offers comfortable and convenient accommodation and facilities, beautiful surroundings, and plenty to keep the kids happy like the climbing frame, their array of farm animals and plenty of green space to run, scoot, bike and explore.
Leworthy Farmhouse Bed & Breakfast is an old Georgian property set on a 3-acre plot with a fishing lake located just 2.8 miles from Holsworthy. The 7 bright rooms feature free WiFi, flat-screens, DVD players, and tea and coffeemaking equipment.
Places to eat in Holsworthy
Holsworthy has a brilliant range of places to eat, including traditional pubs, cafés, and restaurants. Whether you are looking for a hearty pub lunch or a light snack, you will find something to suit your tastes in Holsworthy.
Our favourite pubs in and around Holsworthy include The Bradworthy Inn and The Rydon Inn. The Rydon does one of the best sunday roasts in the area, with a gigantic plate of food with extra large yorkshire puddings. Meanwhile, The Bradworthy Inn has a brilliant menu all week-long and is a cosy and traditional Devonshire pub.
For something a bit different, Alex’s Pizza is a converted vintage horse box that travels around the local Holsworthy area making artisnal sourdough wood-fired pizza. Each pizza is hand-shaped and hand-made to order and baked in their wood-fired oven. Check their website to see their upcoming locations and dates.
If you’re searching for a good cup of coffee or sumptuous traditional cream tea, pay a visit to Filter Through, Posh Totties, or The Den – all are located in the town centre of Holsworthy.
A charming town perfectly situated for nearby attractions
No matter what you are looking for, you will find something to suit your tastes in Holsworthy. Whether you are visiting for a short break or a longer holiday, Holsworthy is a great destination from which to explore the surrounding areas in north Devon and Cornwall.
So why wait? Start planning your trip to Holsworthy today and discover all that this charming market town has to offer.
