This is a landscape of contrasts, dominated by its seascape. There are wide westerly views to the sea, with the long, low outline of Lundy visible on the horizon, and views across Bideford Bay as far as Hartland Point. A series of rolling downland ridges run on to long headlands interspersed with sandy beaches. The smooth downland has an elevated, open, character, whilst the rough headlands feel wild, remote and windswept. The beaches are crowded with holidaymakers in summer, but in winter they feel empty and desolate. This is a colourful landscape – green fields; golden sands; vivid purple and yellow heath; brown and grey rocks; and glorious sunsets – but its mood is always set by the ever-changing sea.
This is a fairly small area comprising the westward-facing coast between Saunton Down and Morte Point. To the north is a gradual transition to the North Devon High Coast (where the downland landform is less dominant and there is more woodland) and to the east is another gradual transition to the North Devon Downs. This transition is marked by a gradual reduction in the influence of the sea. To the south is the flat, estuarine landscape of the Taw-Torridge Estuary.
https://www.devon.gov.uk/planning/north-devon-area/north-devon-coastal-downs
https://www.devon.gov.uk/planning/planning-policies/landscape/devon-character-areas
Planning Strategy
To protect the high scenic quality of the landscape and seascape, minimising the impacts of tourism development, and maintaining its valuable biodiversity. The area’s contrasting landscapes, and its undeveloped character are protected and enhanced. Sustainable agriculture is encouraged, along with good management of semi-natural habitats and historic landscape features. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the landscape, and a good balance between tourism and conservation interests is achieved.
