Short answer: Appledore's quay has boats to watch and not much else — which suits a toddler fine for an hour. The streets are steep, so carry rather than push. Take the seasonal ferry to Instow, which has a sandy beach and easier going.
Appledore is a small fishing village running down steep narrow streets to a quay. With a toddler it is a lovely hour — boats, water, a pub — rather than a full day.
The streets are extremely narrow and steep. Park at the top and walk down, and with a toddler a carrier beats a buggy on the way back up.
In season, a passenger ferry crosses the estuary to Instow. For a toddler, a boat ride is an event. Instow has a sandy beach and easier ground — the better half of the pair at this age.
Time any beach visit for a falling tide. Firm wet sand is easier to push a buggy across, and the shallow pools the sea leaves behind are warmer and safer for a toddler than the sea itself.
The Big Sheep, ten minutes away, has animal shows and indoor play that hold toddlers well. Victoria Park in Bideford has an excellent free playground and splash area.
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