Family Fun at the Watersmeet: Activities for Kids of All Ages
Welcome to Watersmeet Hotel, a haven for families looking to create unforgettable memories on the stunning North Devon coast. Nestled in a prime location with an array of kid-friendly activities both at the hotel and in the surrounding area, Watersmeet promises an adventure-filled holiday for children of all ages. From beach games and nature scavenger hunts to exciting local attractions and educational walks, there's something for every young explorer to enjoy. Dive into our guide and discover why a stay at Watersmeet is the perfect family getaway.
Beach Games at Combesgate Beach
Combesgate Beach is an extension of the Watersmeet Hotel, offering a natural playground where children can revel in the joy of the seaside. One of the favourite pastimes for kids is building sandcastles. Armed with buckets, spades, and endless creativity, they can create intricate fortresses, castles, and even entire sand cities. Parents can join in or relax nearby, knowing their kids are happily engaged.
For those who enjoy a bit of physical activity, beach volleyball and football are excellent options. The soft sands provide a gentle landing, making these activities safe and fun for younger children. Organising a friendly match can be a great way to meet other families and create a sense of community.
The rocky sections of Combesgate Beach are a treasure trove for young explorers. Kids can partake in rockpool explorations, where they can discover crabs, starfish, and other fascinating marine life. It's an educational experience that combines fun with learning about tidal ecosystems. Equip them with a small net and a magnifying glass, and let the discovery begin!
An often overlooked but equally captivating activity is flying kites. The coastal breezes of Combesgate Beach make it an ideal spot for kite flying, a timeless activity that never fails to bring smiles to the faces of both young and old.
While these beach activities are perfect for sunny days, Combesgate Beach also offers charm on cooler days. Dress warmly and engage in a beach scavenger hunt, where children can search for shells, sea glass, and unusual stones. This encourages children to interact with their environment and fosters a sense of adventure and discovery.
Staying at Watersmeet Hotel ensures you're never far from the beach, allowing your family to effortlessly transition between hotel comforts and beachside fun. With an abundance of activities from sandcastle building to kite flying, Combesgate Beach offers endless opportunities for family fun, ensuring each day brings new adventures and cherished memories.
Nature Scavenger Hunts
A nature scavenger hunt is a brilliant way to engage kids with the beautiful landscape surrounding Watersmeet Hotel. This activity combines adventure, education, and a bit of friendly competition, ensuring that children are both entertained and enlightened throughout their stay.
Creating scavenger hunt lists can be a fun pre-activity. Depending on the age range and interests of the children, you can include items like specific types of leaves, pine cones, distinctive rocks, or even local wildlife like butterflies or bird feathers. Providing visual aids like pictures of the items can be particularly helpful for younger children. Including a few challenging items will keep older kids intrigued while young children can delight in easy-to-find treasures.
The lush surroundings of North Devon offer diverse terrain perfect for exploration. Take a guided walk through local woods or along coastal paths and encourage kids to tick off items on their scavenger hunt list. This way, they not only learn about the local flora and fauna but also develop a deeper appreciation for nature. The landscapes offer plenty of learning opportunities: identifying plant species, observing animal behaviour, and understanding ecological systems. Parents can use apps or field guides to help identify tricky items, adding an educational twist to the adventure.
Handing out prizes for completing the scavenger hunt can add an extra layer of excitement. Simple rewards like stickers, small toys, or even an extra scoop of ice cream at dinner can make the activity even more thrilling. Older children might enjoy more substantial prizes or privileges like choosing the day's next activity or an extended bedtime. Prizes can also be themed around nature, such as a small magnifying glass, a nature journal, or a seedling to plant at home.
Watersmeet Hotel’s gardens and surrounding areas provide a safe and accessible environment for conducting these scavenger hunts. With close proximity to the beach and nature trails, the hotel serves as a perfect base for these eco-adventures. Parents can guide their kids or let them explore independently in a safe and controlled manner. The hotel staff can also provide tips on the best local spots for a successful hunt and may even have pre-designed scavenger hunt kits available.
Incorporating a nature scavenger hunt into your family holiday at Watersmeet Hotel not only keeps the kids entertained but also educates them about the unique natural environment of North Devon. This activity blends the joy of discovery with educational enrichment, making it an essential part of your family itinerary. Not to mention, it creates wonderful opportunities for family bonding and lasting memories.
Hotel’s Child-Friendly Amenities
Watersmeet Hotel is designed with families in mind, offering a range of child-friendly amenities that ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for both parents and children. From the moment you arrive, you’ll find facilities and services that cater specifically to the needs of your younger guests, making your family holiday a seamless and delightful experience.
One of the highlights for families staying at Watersmeet is the outdoor swimming pool. With its breathtaking views of the coastline, the pool is a favourite spot for kids to splash around and have fun. The gentle slope and shallow areas make it perfect for younger swimmers. During the warmer months, the poolside experience is enhanced with pool toys and inflatables, adding an extra element of fun. Parents can relax on the comfortable loungers, knowing their children are enjoying the water in a safe, supervised environment.
Dining at Watersmeet is also a family-friendly affair. The hotel offers a special kids' menu featuring a variety of dishes that cater to younger palates without compromising on quality. From classic favourites like fish fingers and chips to healthier options like grilled chicken and vegetable sticks, there’s something for every young gourmet. High chairs are available for the littlest diners, and the hotel staff are always on hand to help with any special dietary needs or requests. To ensure mealtime is enjoyable for all, the hotel also provides colouring books and crayons to keep the little ones entertained while waiting for their food.
For active play, Watersmeet boasts onsite play areas designed to provide entertainment for children of all ages. Outdoor playgrounds with swings, slides, and climbing frames are perfect for the younger kids, while an indoor playroom equipped with toys, books, and games caters to various interests and ages. These play areas offer a safe environment for children to burn off energy, make new friends, and engage in imaginative play, giving parents some well-deserved relaxation time.
For families who enjoy a bit of friendly competition, the hotel has a wide selection of board games and puzzles available. These can be a great way to spend a quiet evening together, fostering family bonding and laughter. Additionally, Watersmeet offers cosy movie nights in a dedicated lounge area, where families can gather to watch a selection of family-friendly films, complete with popcorn and drinks. This provides a perfect way to unwind after a day of adventure, creating lasting memories.
On special occasions and holidays, the hotel organizes seasonal activities and events, such as Easter egg hunts, Halloween parties, and Christmas-themed crafts. These events are meticulously planned to ensure they are enjoyable for children, adding an extra layer of excitement to your stay.
Watersmeet Hotel goes above and beyond to ensure that families feel at home. From the scenic outdoor swimming pool and specially curated kids' menu to engaging play areas and entertainment options, every aspect of the hotel is designed to cater to the needs and enjoyment of children. A stay at Watersmeet promises a blend of relaxation and fun, making it an ideal choice for a memorable family holiday.
Local Attractions
North Devon is brimming with family-friendly attractions that will captivate children's imaginations and offer day-long adventures. Staying at Watersmeet Hotel provides convenient access to several of these exciting locales, ensuring your family holiday is both dynamic and fun-filled.
One of the top attractions in the area is The Big Sheep amusement park. It’s a fantastic blend of farmyard fun and thrilling rides, making it a hit with kids of all ages. Younger children will love the adorable animal encounters, including the chance to feed lambs and meet various farm animals. For the more adventurous, the park offers exhilarating rides such as the Rampage Roller Coaster and a giant inflatable slide. The Big Sheep also hosts a variety of entertaining live shows, from sheep racing to hilarious duck trials, ensuring a full day of amusement for the entire family. The onsite cafes and picnic areas provide convenient spots for a family lunch break.
Another must-visit destination is Exmoor Zoo, nestled within the scenic Exmoor National Park. The zoo is home to a diverse array of animals, including the famous Exmoor Beast. Children can marvel at big cats, monkeys, reptiles, and birds while learning about their habitats and conservation efforts. The zoo offers interactive experiences such as meet-and-greet sessions with smaller animals and feeding times, allowing for close-up encounters that are both educational and memorable. Special events and themed days further enhance the zoo experience, making it a wonderful day out for young animal lovers. The zoo also features a well-equipped play area where kids can run around and burn off energy.
For a more aquatic adventure, Ilfracombe Aquarium presents an opportunity to explore the marine life of the local waters. This delightful, award-winning attraction features a variety of tanks showcasing species native to the North Devon coast, from rockpool creatures to deep-sea dwellers. Interactive displays and knowledgeable staff help kids learn about the marine environment and the importance of conservation. The “hands-on” zones where children can touch starfish and crab shells are particularly popular. After exploring the aquarium, families can enjoy the picturesque Ilfracombe Harbour, with its charming shops, cafes, and beautiful coastal views. The nearby Tunnels Beaches also offer a unique swimming and rock pooling experience in historical Victorian bathing areas.
On days when you'd like a touch of history with your fun, a visit to Dunster Castle is highly recommended. The castle, set on a wooded hill, overlooks the charming medieval village of Dunster. Children will love exploring the ancient castle's rooms, dungeons, and extensive gardens. Interactive exhibits and special family trails make history come alive, engaging young minds' curiosity. Seasonal events such as medieval reenactments and treasure hunts further enhance the castle experience. The surrounding village of Dunster, with its quaint streets and historical landmarks, provides additional exploration opportunities, including family-friendly eateries and unique shops.
These local attractions provide a diverse range of activities designed to entertain and educate children. Whether you're feeding farm animals at The Big Sheep, encountering exotic species at Exmoor Zoo, exploring marine life at Ilfracombe Aquarium, or uncovering history at Dunster Castle, there's never a dull moment. Watersmeet Hotel’s prime location ensures that these attractions are just a short drive away, making day trips convenient and hassle-free for families.
By exploring these nearby treasures, your stay at Watersmeet will be enriched with a variety of experiences that cater to the curiosity and imagination of children, making your family vacation truly unforgettable. With each destination offering unique and engaging activities, your days will be filled with excitement, learning, and quality family time.
Water Sports and Activities
North Devon's stunning coastline and crystal-clear waters provide the perfect backdrop for a variety of exciting water sports and activities. Staying at Watersmeet Hotel offers families easy access to a host of aquatic adventures, ensuring that children of all ages can dive into fun, learning, and lifelong memories.
One of the most popular activities in the area is surfing, and North Devon boasts some of the best surfing beaches in the UK. Local surf schools, such as Woolacombe Surf Centre and Hunter Surf School, offer lessons for children as young as six. Experienced instructors provide tailored lessons that focus on safety, basic techniques, and most importantly, fun. Surfing not only gives kids the thrill of riding the waves but also teaches them about ocean awareness and builds water confidence. For those looking to refine their skills, advanced lessons are available, covering techniques like paddling out, catching unbroken waves, and performing turns.
For a more relaxed water experience, paddleboarding and kayaking are excellent choices. These activities offer a unique way to explore North Devon's beautiful coastal scenery and tranquil waterways. Many local providers offer family-friendly paddleboarding and kayaking tours that cater to beginners and children. These tours often include a gentle introduction to paddling techniques and allow families to glide along serene waters while discovering hidden coves and observing marine wildlife. Ilfracombe Sea Safari and Surfside Kayak Hire are popular choices for guided tours and equipment rentals. Some tours even incorporate stops at secluded beaches, where families can enjoy a picnic and some downtime.
Coasteering is another exhilarating activity for adventurous families. This involves navigating the coastline by climbing, jumping, and swimming, providing an adrenaline-pumping way to explore North Devon's rugged cliffs and hidden sea caves. Coasteering sessions, led by experienced guides, are available for older children and teens, with all necessary safety gear provided. Companies like Active Escape and Xtreme Coasteering offer family-friendly sessions that ensure a thrilling yet safe experience. Coasteering is not only a test of physical agility but also a fantastic way to connect with nature in its rawest form, offering unique encounters with marine wildlife and geological formations.
Safety is paramount when engaging in water sports, so it's crucial to follow a few simple safety tips:
Always opt for professional instruction and use the recommended safety gear, such as helmets, life jackets, and wetsuits.
Listen carefully to the safety briefings and follow the guidance of instructors.
For beach activities, check the tide times and beach conditions, and always swim or surf at lifeguarded beaches.
Make sure children are aware of basic water safety rules, such as not swimming too far from shore and always having a buddy.
Parents should also be prepared with essentials like sunscreen, water, and snacks to keep everyone hydrated and energized.
Watersmeet Hotel’s proximity to both Woolacombe and Ilfracombe ensures that families have easy access to these exciting water sports and activities, making it a prime location for an action-packed coastal holiday. After a day of surfing lessons or paddleboarding tours, the comfort and amenities of the hotel provide the perfect retreat to relax and rejuvenate. The hotel staff can assist with recommendations and bookings, further enhancing your family’s adventure experience.
From riding the waves during a surf lesson to exploring the coastline on a paddleboard or coasteering, North Devon’s water sports and activities offer thrilling adventures for the whole family. These experiences at Watersmeet Hotel will not only entertain and engage the kids but also create cherished memories of shared adventures on the water, ensuring your family holiday is unforgettable.
Educational Walks and Trails
North Devon is home to some of the UK's most breathtaking landscapes, making it an ideal destination for educational walks and trails. These experiences not only provide great exercise but also offer incredible learning opportunities for children, turning your family holiday into an enriching adventure. Watersmeet Hotel’s prime location serves as an excellent base for exploring these natural wonders.
One of the standout trails in the area is the Woolacombe Dunes Trail. This coastal walk takes you through a dynamic dune ecosystem, offering insights into the unique flora and fauna that inhabit this environment. Kids can learn about dune formation, the role of Marram grass in stabilising the sand, and the diverse wildlife that calls this area home. The trail is well-marked and suitable for all ages, making it a perfect family-friendly activity. Don’t forget to bring along a nature guidebook or download a plant identification app to make the walk even more interactive. The sight of rabbits darting through the dunes and the calls of seabirds overhead add a magical touch to the experience.
For those looking to delve deeper into the natural beauty and history of the region, Exmoor National Park offers a variety of family-friendly walks. The Lynmouth Watersmeet walk is particularly popular. This picturesque trail follows the East Lyn River through ancient woodlands, offering opportunities to spot otters, birds, and other wildlife. The walk culminates at Watersmeet House, a charming National Trust property where families can enjoy a riverside picnic. The park also offers educational guided walks led by experienced rangers, which can enhance your understanding of the local ecosystem and history. These guided tours often include fascinating topics such as the region’s history, botany, and sustainable practices.
The Tarka Trail is another fantastic educational experience. Named after the famous literary otter, Tarka, this trail covers over 180 miles of stunning Devon countryside. While the entire trail might be too long for younger legs, sections of it are ideal for family walks. The trail winds through various habitats, from coastal regions to inland woodlands and riverbanks, offering diverse educational opportunities. Interactive points along the way provide information about the history, geography, and wildlife of the area, making it a living outdoor classroom. Many sections of the trail are accessible by bike, offering an alternative way to explore and adding an extra layer of adventure.
For families interested in geology, the Baggy Point walk offers a fascinating insight into the Earth's history. This National Trust walk provides stunning views of the coastline and an opportunity to learn about the geological formations that have shaped North Devon. Information boards along the route explain the area's geological significance, from sedimentary rock layers to fossil discoveries. Children will be fascinated by the tales of ancient seas and prehistoric creatures that once roamed the area. Hands-on activities like fossil hunting or rock identification can further enhance the educational aspect of this walk.
To make these educational walks even more engaging for children, consider incorporating activities like geocaching or nature journaling. Geocaching adds an element of treasure hunting to your walk, as you use GPS coordinates to find hidden caches. These caches often contain small trinkets or logbooks, adding an element of discovery and excitement. Nature journaling encourages kids to document their observations through drawings and notes, fostering a deeper connection to their surroundings. Providing them with a simple sketchbook and colored pencils can turn a walk into a creative adventure.
These educational walks and trails offer a perfect blend of exercise, learning, and family bonding. Watersmeet Hotel’s proximity to these natural landscapes ensures that your family can easily access these enriching experiences. By exploring the Woolacombe Dunes, Exmoor National Park, the Tarka Trail, and Baggy Point, your family will gain a greater appreciation for North Devon’s unique environment and history.
These walks transform your family holiday into an immersive educational adventure, creating memories that combine the joy of discovery with the beauty of nature. Every step taken on these trails is an opportunity for your children to learn and grow, making your stay at Watersmeet Hotel truly unforgettable. Embrace the chance to explore, learn, and bond as a family amidst North Devon’s stunning natural scenery.
Indoor Activities at the Hotel
While North Devon's breathtaking outdoor scenery and activities are often the star of the show, sometimes the weather might call for a cosy day indoors. Watersmeet Hotel is well-prepared for such occasions, offering a variety of indoor activities that ensure children remain entertained and engaged, regardless of the weather.
One of the most popular indoor pastimes at Watersmeet is the board games and puzzles corner. Located in a comfortable communal area, this space is stocked with a wide variety of classic and modern board games, as well as challenging puzzles suitable for all ages. Families can gather around for a friendly game of Monopoly, Scrabble, or Jenga, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and healthy competition. Card games like Uno and Go Fish are also available, providing quick and easy options for fun. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, jigsaw puzzles provide a quiet yet engaging way to pass the time together.
The hotel regularly hosts arts and crafts sessions, encouraging kids to unleash their creativity. These sessions are designed to cater to a range of ages and skill levels, offering activities like painting, drawing, clay modelling, and crafting with recycled materials. With guidance from enthusiastic staff, children can create unique souvenirs to take home, commemorating their stay at Watersmeet. Seasonal themes, such as making holiday decorations, summer-themed crafts, or painting sea life, add an extra layer of excitement and relevance to these activities. Supplies are always plentiful, and creativity is highly encouraged, making each session a colourful and imaginative experience.
On weekends and during school holidays, Watersmeet often arranges movie nights in its cosy lounge area. Families can snuggle up on comfortable sofas to enjoy a selection of family-friendly films, ranging from beloved Disney classics to the latest animated hits. Complete with popcorn, hot chocolate, and soft blankets, these movie nights provide a perfect way to wind down after a day of exploring. The communal setting also offers an opportunity for children to make new friends, adding to the sense of a shared, joyful experience. The hotel even offers themed movie nights, featuring costumes and decorations that match the film being shown.
For tech-savvy kids, the hotel features a video games corner equipped with popular gaming consoles like PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch, along with a library of age-appropriate games. This is a great spot for children to challenge each other in virtual races or embark on digital adventures, all while remaining within the safe confines of the hotel. Time limits and parental controls ensure that screen time is balanced and healthy, allowing kids to enjoy this modern form of entertainment responsibly.
When in need of some quiet time, the hotel's well-stocked library and reading nook offers a sanctuary of calm. Filled with a curated selection of children's books, young readers can discover new stories and revisit old favourites. Comfortable seating and a peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal place for children to unwind and immerse themselves in the world of books. Parents can also find a variety of lifestyle and travel books to browse through, making it a versatile space for family relaxation. The library often features storytime sessions where hotel staff read aloud, bringing tales to life and fostering a love of reading in young listeners.
Additionally, the hotel occasionally hosts interactive workshops like baking classes or simple science experiments. These workshops are designed to be both fun and educational, allowing children to learn new skills while having a great time. Baking classes might include decorating cupcakes or making simple bread, while science workshops could involve creating fun experiments like homemade slime or volcano eruptions. These workshops usually culminate in a take-home creation, adding to the lasting memories of the stay.
Overall, the indoor activities at Watersmeet Hotel are thoughtfully designed to ensure that children remain entertained, creative, and engaged, even when they’re indoors. From board games and arts and crafts to movie nights, video games, and interactive workshops, there’s something for every interest and age. These activities not only keep the children happy but also provide invaluable opportunities for family bonding. Whether creating a masterpiece during an arts and crafts session or laughing together during a board game, these indoor activities contribute to the cherished memories you'll make during your stay at Watersmeet Hotel.
Special Events and Seasonal Fun
At Watersmeet Hotel, the experience doesn't stop at the everyday amenities and activities; special events and seasonal fun add a unique charm to your family holiday. Throughout the year, Watersmeet hosts a variety of themed events that captivate the imagination and make every stay a little more magical and memorable.
During the summer months, the hotel runs a lively kids' club that offers a rotating schedule of activities tailored to young guests. From beachcombing excursions and treasure hunts to arts and crafts workshops, the club ensures that children are both entertained and engaged. Trained staff oversee the activities, allowing parents some time to relax or explore knowing their kids are in safe hands. Evening events might include family barbecues, outdoor movie nights under the stars, and live music performances that everyone can enjoy together, creating a vibrant, communal atmosphere. These activities foster a sense of friendship and camaraderie among the young guests.
Spring brings the delights of Easter celebrations at Watersmeet. An exciting Easter egg hunt sprawls across the hotel gardens and nearby beach, with colourful eggs hidden in the most imaginative spots. Children can work together to find these treasures, with special prizes for the most eggs collected. Easter-themed arts and crafts sessions are also held, where kids can make bunny masks, decorate eggs, and even create their own Easter baskets. A festive Easter Sunday brunch featuring seasonal treats completes the holiday experience, offering delightful dishes for both kids and adults. Additionally, the hotel often hosts a visit from the Easter Bunny, adding to the joy and wonder of the season.
Autumn is the season for Halloween festivities, transforming the hotel into a spooky yet delightful wonderland. Themed decorations adorn the hallways and common areas, while staff and guests often participate in costume contests, with prizes for the most creative and spooky outfits. Children can enjoy pumpkin carving workshops, guided trick-or-treating within the hotel premises, and spooky storytelling sessions around a cosy fire. The highlight of the event is the Halloween party, filled with games, music, and an array of deliciously eerie treats. Haunted trails and ghost tours may also be part of the festivities, offering gentle thrills and chills appropriate for kids.
Winter at Watersmeet is a time of holiday magic. The Christmas season brings the hotel to life with sparkling decorations, a beautifully adorned tree, and the warm glow of festive lights. Families can participate in activities like gingerbread house building, ornament crafting, and writing letters to Santa. The annual Christmas Eve event includes a special visit from Santa Claus himself, bearing gifts for all the children. Christmas Day features a magnificent feast, with traditional dishes that will delight both kids and adults. Evening entertainment might include carol singing and holiday-themed movie nights, adding to the festive spirit. Additionally, the hotel hosts a New Year's Eve celebration with early evening activities for the children, allowing parents to enjoy their own festivities later in the night. The countdown includes kid-friendly activities like face painting, a mini-disco, and balloon drops, ensuring everyone rings in the new year with joy.
Special occasions and bank holidays throughout the year are also marked with unique activities and events. These might include themed tea parties, outdoor cinema nights, and special guided tours of local attractions, all designed to take advantage of the holiday spirit and offer something extra special. Themed weekends, such as pirate adventures or circus-themed days, can also add an element of surprise and excitement for young guests.
The joy of these special events is that they are meticulously planned to ensure maximum enjoyment for children, adding an extra layer of excitement to your stay. Themed activities and celebrations not only entertain but also bring families together, offering opportunities for shared experiences and unforgettable moments. Whether it’s the thrill of an Easter egg hunt, the laughs during a Halloween costume contest, or the magic of meeting Santa Claus, these seasonal events at Watersmeet Hotel enrich the family holiday experience in delightful and memorable ways. With each season bringing its own unique offerings, your family will always find something special to look forward to, making every visit to Watersmeet Hotel a new adventure.
Local Food and Dining Options
Exploring North Devon’s culinary scene is a delightful experience for families staying at Watersmeet Hotel. The region offers a rich tapestry of flavours that cater to all tastes, making dining a memorable part of your family holiday. From seaside cafes to rustic pubs, both the hotel and nearby establishments provide a variety of options that are sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.
The Watersmeet Hotel prides itself on offering a family-friendly dining experience. The hotel’s restaurant features a special kids' menu that includes a range of dishes designed to appeal to younger palates. Classic favourites like spaghetti bolognese, chicken nuggets, and fish and chips are made using high-quality, fresh ingredients. Healthier options such as grilled chicken with vegetables and fresh fruit platters are also available. Meals can be enjoyed in the elegant dining room with stunning sea views or more informally in the lounge or terrace areas, providing flexibility for families. The hotel's breakfast buffet, with its assortment of cereals, pastries, fruits, and cooked options, ensures a great start to the day for both kids and adults. Special themed nights, such as Italian or BBQ nights, add variety and excitement to the dining experience.
Nearby, Woolacombe offers several dining options perfect for families. The Red Barn is a popular choice, located just steps from the beach. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and extensive menu, it is well-suited for families. Children can enjoy meals like mini pizzas, fish fingers, and burgers, while parents can indulge in local seafood and hearty pub classics. The venue often has live music, creating a lively atmosphere that kids find exciting, especially when they can enjoy their meals in an outdoor seating area overlooking the ocean.
Barricane Beach Cafe is another must-visit spot, particularly for its unique offering of Sri Lankan curries served alfresco on the beach. This beachside café is famous for its stunning sunset views and relaxed vibe, making it a fantastic place for a casual family dinner. Kids can play in the sand while waiting for their food, creating a laid-back dining experience. The cafe also offers a selection of sandwiches, pastries, and ice creams, catering to a variety of tastes. The atmosphere is particularly magical as the sun sets, making it an unforgettable dining experience.
Ilfracombe provides further culinary delights with family-friendly establishments like The Dolphin and Hele Corn Mill and Tea Room. The Dolphin, situated on the harbour, is a great place for seafood lovers. Its fresh fish dishes and harbour views make it an ideal spot for a family meal. The restaurant's vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff ensure a welcoming environment for families. Meanwhile, Hele Corn Mill and Tea Room offers a wonderfully quaint experience, with delicious cream teas, homemade cakes, and light lunches. The mill’s historical setting and lovely garden area provide a unique and charming dining environment. The tea room also offers baking workshops for children, turning a simple visit into a hands-on culinary adventure.
For a taste of local produce, don’t miss the Ilfracombe Farmers' Market. Held regularly, the market showcases a variety of local products, from fresh vegetables and fruits to artisanal bread and cheeses. It’s a great place to pick up a picnic or introduce children to the flavours of North Devon. Engaging with local vendors can be an educational experience for kids, teaching them about where their food comes from and the importance of supporting local producers. Kids might also enjoy sampling the array of treats on offer, from homemade fudge to freshly baked pastries.
Picnicking is another wonderful way to enjoy the local food scene. Watersmeet Hotel can provide picnic hampers packed with delicious treats, which families can take to the beach, a local park, or one of the scenic coastal paths. These hampers might include fresh sandwiches, fruits, local cheeses, and sweet treats, allowing families to dine alfresco amidst the stunning natural beauty of North Devon. The convenience of these hampers makes it easy to plan a day out without the stress of finding dining options, and parents can relax knowing that a delicious meal is ready to go.
From the hotel’s tempting menu to the diverse culinary offerings of Woolacombe and Ilfracombe, there’s no shortage of fantastic dining options for families. Each meal becomes a part of the adventure, whether you're enjoying a casual beachside meal or experiencing the charm of a traditional tea room. These dining experiences, combined with the region’s stunning scenery, enhance the overall enjoyment of your stay at Watersmeet Hotel, ensuring that both children and parents leave with delicious memories. Dining in North Devon is not just about eating; it’s about savouring moments, exploring new tastes, and enjoying quality family time around the table, making your holiday truly special.
Conclusion
Family fun at Watersmeet Hotel is about more than just a place to stay; it’s about creating unforgettable experiences and making memories that last a lifetime. With an abundance of activities designed for children of all ages, both at the hotel and in the surrounding North Devon area, every day is filled with adventure, learning, and joy.
From the excitement of building sandcastles and exploring rockpools on Combesgate Beach to the thrill of nature scavenger hunts in the local flora and fauna, there are endless opportunities for outdoor fun. The hotel's numerous child-friendly amenities—including the outdoor swimming pool, specialised kids' menu, and well-equipped play areas—ensure that families are well-catered to and every need is met. These amenities provide a seamless blend of relaxation and entertainment, making sure both parents and children enjoy their stay to the fullest.
Exploring local attractions like The Big Sheep, Exmoor Zoo, and Ilfracombe Aquarium provides enriching experiences that combine fun with education. Water sports and activities, from surfing lessons to coasteering, offer exhilarating ways for families to connect with North Devon’s stunning coastal environment while staying active and engaged. These thrilling activities not only boost physical fitness but also foster a sense of adventure and resilience in children.
Educational walks and trails like Woolacombe Dunes and the Tarka Trail transform simple strolls into captivating learning adventures, cultivating an appreciation for the natural world. Indoor activities at the hotel—from board games and arts and crafts to movie nights and interactive workshops—ensure that even rainy days offer joyful and meaningful experiences. These indoor options nurture creativity, imagination, and family bonding.
Special events and seasonal fun at Watersmeet Hotel add another layer of excitement, creating a dynamic holiday experience that evolves with the seasons. Whether it's Halloween festivities, Easter egg hunts, or summer kids' club activities, these events infuse the holiday with magical moments that children will treasure.
Dining in North Devon is a delicious journey of discovery, with a myriad of local food and dining options that cater to every family member's tastes and preferences. Enjoying a meal at the hotel's own restaurant, sampling local cuisine at beachside cafes, or picking up fresh produce from farmers' markets turns each meal into a culinary adventure. These experiences introduce children to new flavours and the importance of sustainable, local produce.
By choosing Watersmeet Hotel, you are choosing a destination that goes above and beyond to ensure a magical holiday for the entire family. The combination of natural beauty, diverse activities, and thoughtful amenities makes it the perfect setting for creating cherished family moments. Whether you are exploring the rugged coastline, engaging in interactive workshops, or simply relaxing by the pool, every moment spent at Watersmeet is a chance to build lasting memories.
We invite you to book your stay at Watersmeet Hotel and start planning your family’s next great adventure. For more information on bookings and amenities, please visit our website. Embrace the opportunity to explore, learn, laugh, and relax in this incredible corner of North Devon. Here’s to a holiday filled with joy, discovery, and unforgettable family moments at Watersmeet Hotel!
