Deep combes cloaked in oak woodland wind inland from the wooded cliffs, with carpets of bluebells in spring. Streams rush down the valleys, and ferns thrive in the dark, damp conditions. The woodland paths, with their glimpsed views of the sea, have a sense of intimacy, secrecy and peace. Narrow lanes with high, fern-covered banks provide access to the sheltered combe villages of Bucks Mills and Clovelly, the latter with its picturesque harbour and whitewashed houses. On higher land behind and between the combes is a lush landscape with a rolling patchwork of fields, a peaceful settled feel, and views of the woodlands and the sea. There are open sea views across Bideford Bay towards the Taw-Torridge estuary, with Lundy a distinctive feature on the horizon.
This area encompasses a sweep of coastal land from Beckland Bay (near Exmansworthy) to Westward Ho! To the north is the sea, and to the east (beyond the settlements of Westward Ho! and Appledore) is the Taw-Torridge Estuary. To the south is a transition to the Torridge Valley (marked by a change in landform) and the Western Culm Plateau (marked by the change in dominant vegetation to Culm grassland and plantation). To the west is a gradual transition to the Hartland Peninsula.
https://www.devon.gov.uk/planning/torridge-area/bideford-bay-coast
https://www.devon.gov.uk/planning/planning-policies/landscape/devon-character-areas
Planning Strategy
To protect the landscape’s very high scenic quality, and its characteristic juxtaposition of farmland, wooded combes and coastal scenery. The area’s valuable natural and semi-natural habitats (including the coastal oak woodlands) are well managed and extended where possible. Sustainable agriculture is encouraged and the farmland is well-managed. The area’s archaeological and built heritage is protected and well-managed. People continue to enjoy the area, but its popularity as a tourist destination is not to the detriment of its landscape. The resilience of the area’s ecological systems to climate change is strengthened and its valued seascapes are protected.
