Best Sunset Spots in Westward Ho!

Short answer: Westward Ho! faces the open Atlantic, which makes it one of the best sunset beaches in north Devon. Anywhere on the two miles of sand works. The Pier House's window tables look straight out to sea.

It faces the right way

Westward Ho! looks out over the open Atlantic with nothing between the beach and the horizon. The sun goes down into the sea, which is what people mean by a sunset.

On the beach

Two miles of flat sand, so there is always space. The pebble ridge behind gives you a little height if you want it. Walk towards the far end and the crowds thin out completely.

With a view and a drink

The Pier House is a big glass-fronted restaurant above the bay with window tables looking straight out to sea. The Guillemot Bar at Latitude 51 has beach views from its garden.

Northam Burrows

Along the coast, an open beach with the same western horizon and almost nobody there in the evening.

Arrive half an hour before sunset and stay twenty minutes after. The afterglow is usually better than the sunset itself, and most people leave the moment the sun touches the horizon.

Practical

• Take a torch — coast paths are unlit on the walk back.
• Stay back from cliff edges; you cannot see where the ground gives way in low light.
• It gets cold fast once the sun goes, even in summer.
• Parking is £8 for the day — arrive in the afternoon and make it a beach evening.