Real, curated ideas for Appledore — the quay, the estuary views, the pubs and where to eat, filtered by who's actually with you.
Appledore is a village of narrow pastel streets running down to a quay where the Torridge and the Taw meet, and it is the prettiest place in north Devon. It is also a working shipbuilding village rather than a museum piece, which is what keeps it from feeling twee.
There is no beach here to speak of — the point of Appledore is the water, the boats and the eating. For the size of the place it has a remarkable concentration of good pubs and restaurants, most of them along Irsha Street and the quay with the estuary in front of them.
Two practical things. The streets are extremely narrow and parking is limited, so use the car park at the top and walk down. And Instow, directly across the water with its sandy beach, is a short drive round or a seasonal ferry ride — the two work well as one day.
Listings last checked: September 2026
The flat, traffic-free estuary path runs along the far side of the water and is reachable from Appledore via Bideford — paved, benched and suitable for buggies and wheelchairs as well as bikes. The obvious way to work off a long lunch.
Ten minutes away past Bideford — animal shows, indoor play, a rollercoaster and lamb feeding in spring. The nearest full-day family attraction to Appledore. Reduced timetable outside school holidays, so check the opening days.
On Irsha Street right by the shore, and the most accomplished cooking in the village — fish on the bone, unusual sides done properly, and service people write at length about. Open from eight for coffee too. Not cheap: expect to pay for it.
Traditional pub overlooking the estuary with a specials board heavy on seafood, a genuinely good vegan and vegetarian roast, and a mix of locals and visitors that gives it real character. Dogs welcome until 5pm. Terraced seating with the best views.
The pub on the quay, open from eight in the morning, with a Sunday roast for two served on a board that defeats most people. Good outdoor space facing the water. Lunch service tends to be better than the evening.
A small newer bistro on Market Street doing fish landed locally and a varied specials board, with generous portions at fair prices. Evenings only, Wednesday to Saturday. Small number of reviews, but strong ones.
A recently opened proper local on New Quay Street with darts, pool, a snug for private parties and space for live music. Drinks rather than food — you can bring your own and buy your drinks at the bar. Opens late afternoon on weekdays.
Directly across the estuary at Instow — mussels rated the best in north Devon, lobster, good cocktails and a sunset view back over the water. A short drive round or a seasonal ferry hop. Open from nine; book for evenings.