Things to do in Appledore, Devon
Known for its shipbuilding, it has retained its narrow cobbled streets and bow-fronted cottages which have remained unchanged over the last centuries.
Just across the river lies Instow, another delightful coastal village which can be reached by local ferryboat or via a long drive around the estuary.
It prospered during the Elizabethan era as a shipbuilding centre and supplied ships and men to fight the Spanish Armada in 1666.
As a reward, Appledore was granted free port status by Elizabeth I.
The quay was constructed in 1845 and the village continued to expand as a maritime port of considerable importance.
Appledore Shipyard was founded in 1855. It produced many famous ships and was responsible for building replicas of Drake's Golden Hind, Viking Longboats and square-rigged training ships.
The shipyard also constructed the replica Mayflower which sailed to Boston Massachusetts re-creating the original perilous voyage of the pilgrim fathers.
Present Day Appledore
Appledore has around 2,000 inhabitants who mostly reside in the quaint fishermen's cottages of all sizes which line the labyrinth of narrow lanes leading inland from the quay.
The area is popular with artists and tourists in the summer. The oldest house is Docton House on the Marine Parade which is now used as an art gallery.
The village is served by St Mary's Church, rebuilt in 1837 on an earlier foundation as the graveyard will show. The wooden screen was made from wood salvaged from the Marco Polo.
The Royal George and the Beaver are two popular pubs that serve local cider and good food in the cosy bars.
The flagstone floors and beamed ceilings have seen many generations come and go in their time.
Things to do in Appledore
The local maritime museum in the village preserves Appledore's maritime history with fascinating exhibits and local tales.
Braunton Burrows is nearby, across the estuary and is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Along with Westward Ho! it offers long sandy beaches which are popular with families in the summer and kitesurfing is also enjoyed along the firm sands.
The Big Sheep attraction nearby is a petting farm that is popular with children.
Fishing charters and scenic coastal boat trips are always available from Appledore Quay.
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Days Out in Appledore
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Elliot Gallery (4 Miles)*
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Marwood Hill Gardens (7 Miles)*
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RHS Garden Rosemoor (8 Miles)*
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North Devon Farm Park (9 Miles)*
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Cobbaton Combat Collection (10 Miles)*
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Chambercombe Manor (11 Miles)*
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Old Cornmill & Tearoom (11 Miles)*
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Watermouth Castle (12 Miles)*
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Wildlife & Dinosaur Adventure Park (13 Miles)*
Places to Visit near Appledore
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Instow (1 Mile)*
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Westward Ho (2 Miles)*
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Bideford (2 Miles)*
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Abbotsham (3 Miles)*
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Braunton (4 Miles)*
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Croyde (6 Miles)*
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Barnstaple (7 Miles)*
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Great Torrington (7 Miles)*
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Woolacombe (8 Miles)*
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Clovelly (9 Miles)*
Also near Appledore |
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