I found Hartland Point Lighthouse, so you don’t have to! If you’re looking for a short but scenic dog-friendly walk with a bit of history thrown in, Hartland Point Lighthouse ticks the box – just don’t expect it to be a long ramble!
Discover Hartland Point with your Dog
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Ivan and I love visiting heritage buildings and properties. One night, we spoke with a local who informed us of a beautiful walk. So, we headed out in search of Hartland Point Lighthouse. While I’m glad we visited and ticked it off the list, it was a tower of comedy errors.
Would I go back? Probably not – but if you love lighthouses and dramatic coastal scenery, Hartland Point Lighthouse is a must-visit. The rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and the lighthouse standing proudly on the rock below create a picturesque scene. Ivan had a great time running, sniffing and exploring!
Hartland Point Lighthouse History
Designed by Sir James Douglass, the Hartland Point Lighthouse stands as a testament to his engineering prowess. Originally built to guide ships safely past this treacherous stretch of coastline, it has undergone several upgrades, with the most recent Hartland Point Lighthouse refurbishment ensuring it remains a beacon of safety. Its Grade II listing is a testament to its historical significance.
Built in 1874, the Grade II listed lighthouse has stood as a guardian between Lundy Island and the Devon Coast, under the care of Trinity House. While it’s not open to the public, you can imagine the keepers of old braving the elements here, and the views alone make it worth the trip, but getting there? Well, that’s another story…
Visiting Hartland Point Lighthouse Devon
Picture this: On our way home from staying at 18 Bucklands in Bideford, we decided to stretch our legs before the journey. I’m weaving my way through 20 minutes of narrow, twisty country lanes, my dog looking at me like, “Where on earth are we going?”
Finally, we arrive at the car park, and I start pulling on my walking boots, ready for adventure. Then, out of nowhere, a 1970s rusty Rover pulls up, and a lady at least 90 years old shouts over to me, clearly annoyed.
She grumbled at me for not stopping to pay the £3 parking fee. Now, I had done my research – I knew there was a charge, but I assumed there’d be a machine or an obvious place to pay. I handed over a tenner, and she pulled out a tin that looked like she’d had it since the war, painstakingly counting out my change.
After asking if I had poop bags (of course I did), she pointed vaguely into the distance, saying, “Go that way”. And with that, we were off!
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The (Very) Short Walk
Under the impression that this was a mile-long trek, I set off with excitement (and was still giggling after my encounter). To my surprise, it wasn’t even close to that! Within 10 minutes, we reached the viewing platform.
Was it worth it? Absolutely. The views over Hartland Bay are breathtaking, and you can spot the lighthouse standing proudly on the rugged rock below. The coastline here is dramatic, with steep cliffs and crashing waves – a proper slice of wild England.
I even witnessed a helicopter taking off for Lundy Island. Fancy a trip? It’ll cost £174 per person for a 9-minute journey. Yep, you read that right!
Hartland Point Lighthouse Opening Times
The car park is open from 9.30am to 5pm. From Easter to October, there’s also an outdoor refreshment kiosk.
Alternatively, you can park at the National Trust East Titchberry Car Park.
Currently, there aren’t any Hartland Point Lighthouse Tours or a dedicated Hartland Point Lighthouse Map.
Hartland Point Lighthouse Address
📍 Hartland Point, Bideford, North Devon, EX39 6AU
///airbrush.boarding.clocked
Travelling with your Dog
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Things to do near Bideford Bay
Bideford is a great base for exploring the surrounding villages and countryside. It offers a mix of quaint shops, riverside views, and dog friendly pubs, making it suitable for families and couples.
Clovelly
Clovelly is utterly charming. It looks untouched by the modern world with winding cobbled streets, whitewashed cottages and captivating views. The entire village is a tourist attraction and a truly unique experience. Spend the day and enjoy the dog friendly places to eat in Clovelly.
Appledore
Appledore is renowned for its narrow winding streets, colourful houses, and rich maritime heritage. Visitors can enjoy simple seaside pleasures such as days at the beach, crabbing, boat trips, cream teas, and fish and chips. Make sure you check out the Dog Friendly Pubs in Appledore.
Instow
Just across the estuary lies Instow, a quaint village boasting a sandy beach lined with dunes and a charming waterfront. Accessible via a seasonal ferry from Appledore, it offers the same pleasures. Seek out the Instow Signal Box, which is open most Sundays. There are plenty of Dog Friendly Pubs in Instow, too.
Westward Ho!
A short distance away, Westward Ho! is celebrated for its expansive sandy beach backed by a distinctive pebble ridge. The village’s name is derived from Charles Kingsley’s 1855 novel, and it remains a popular destination for surfing and seaside holidays. Whilst you visit, check out the Dog-Friendly Pubs in Westward Ho!
Barnstable
Barnstable is the largest town in North Devon and a riverport. It is known for its Victorian, Medieval, and Georgian architecture. The historic Pannier Market is a highlight. Here, you can browse a wide range of local produce, crafts, and antiques. The Museum of Barnstable and North Devon is also a highlight.
Ilfracombe
Ilfracombe is a charming seaside resort and civil parish located on the North Devon coast of England. The town features a small harbour surrounded by cliffs. In recent years, Ilfracombe has become known for Damien Hirst’s statue of Verity, which has become a point of interest. There are so many things to do in Ilfracombe with your dog, as well as dog friendly pubs in Ilfracombe.
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