Barricane
The small sandy Barricane Beach, otherwise known as Shell Beach lies just to the north of Woolacombe, and west of the village of Mortehoe on the North Devon coast.
Long and thin in shape, and west-facing the beach consists of a mixture of shell fragments, fine shingle and sand. Access is via a concrete ramp which drops down from Mortehoe Road. Please be aware that the path is quite steep.
Barricane beach lies within a SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) due to its geology. The area is also an AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty).
For casual visitors, the main feature of Barricane is the shells and shell fragments found at the top of the beach. many are quite exotic in nature. For younger members of the group rock pools will provide hours of entertainment.
There is limited roadside parking so it is best to park elsewhere and walk over to Barricane.
There is a seasonal shop and cafe here, but no toilets. All other facilities in nearby Woolacombe.
At low tide it is possible to walk across to Woolacombe and Combesgate beaches. However, if intending to do this please be aware of the state of the tide, so that you do not risk getting cut off.
Just north of the beach lies Grunta Pool and the small inlet of Grunta Beach.
There is a varied selection of accommodation available in the area with a style to fit all tastes and a price to suit most pockets. The majestic Morte Point and the 12th Century church of St Mary Magdalene at Mortehoe are well worth a visit if staying nearby.
Facilities
✔ Sandy beach
✔ Cafe, shop or pub
✔ Easily accessible
✔ Family friendly
✔ Interesting geology
✘ Seasonal dog ban
OS Explorer Map 139: Bideford, Ilfracombe and Barnstaple
This map is part of the Ordnance Survey's Explorer series designed to replace the old Pathfinder map series. At 1:25,000 scale this detailed map shows a host of attractions including gardens which are open to the public, nature reserves and country parks as well as all official footpaths, bridleways, roads and lanes. Other facilities covered include: camping and caravan sites, picnic areas and viewpoints, selected places of interest, rights of way information for England and Wales, National Trail and Recreational Path routes, and selected tourist information. The series is aimed mainly at the experienced map user but can be used by tourists and locals alike.
Local area
Holiday Parks
Stay at a nearby Holiday Park and keep the kids amused all day! Parks in the vicinity include those at:
Hotels
Plenty of hotels are available locally. Consider those in the local towns:
Caravans
In the vicinity is a choice of camping and caravan sites offering high quality, affordable holiday accommodation. Consider camps in Mortehoe, Ilfracombe, Braunton and Combe Martin.
