Summer in Woolacombe is something special. With its golden sands and rolling surf, it's the quintessential Devon seaside escape. But when the British weather delivers a glorious heatwave, the challenge becomes finding the perfect way for the whole family to cool off while making the most of the school holidays. Fear not, because we’ve got the ultimate guide to summer events and some top tips for staying chill, all while enjoying a stay at the luxurious Southover Beach holiday apartments.
Family Fun and Summer Events
Woolacombe and the surrounding North Devon area are buzzing with activity during the summer holidays. If you’re looking for things to do with the kids beyond the beach, you’re spoiled for choice.
For a truly unique experience, the Mortehoe Scarecrow Festival is a must. This family-friendly event transforms the nearby village of Mortehoe into a whimsical trail of creativity. This year, from July 31st to August 3rd, you can follow a trail of around 30 scarecrows themed around classic fairy tales and characters. Pick up a trail sheet, identify the scarecrows, and even vote for your favourite—it’s a delightful way to explore the local community.
Just a short trip away, the Devon Street Food Festival hits Ilfracombe in late July, bringing a taste of the world to the coast with Caribbean, Mexican, and Greek delicacies, plus live music. For families who love a bit of history, a day out at the aquarium in Ilfracombe or a trip to the stunning, car-free village of Clovelly offers a fantastic adventure. Clovelly’s steep cobbled streets and harbour are a sight to behold, and a cream tea is the perfect fuel for the climb back up!
Staying Cool in a Heatwave
When the mercury rises, the Blue Flag beach at Woolacombe is your first port of call. With RNLI lifeguards on duty, it’s a safe place for the kids to enjoy the waves. However, a tip for a truly blissful heatwave experience is to book a beach hut. They are a game-changer for families, offering shade, a place to store all your gear, and a comfortable base for the day. Having a deckchair and a windbreak ready and waiting means you can enjoy the beach from early morning until the heat finally wins, and you can retreat without the hassle of carrying everything back and forth.
If you need another escape from the sun, there are plenty of indoor attractions. Consider visiting RHS Garden Rosemoor for the Westcountry Potters Summer Exhibition or the Brick Explorers Summer Trail for interactive fun. Alternatively, explore Woolacombe’s arts and crafts offerings for a creative break from the sun.
Why Southover Beach Holiday Apartments are the Ideal Base
To truly make the most of your summer holiday, where you stay makes all the difference. Southover Beach holiday apartments offer an unrivalled location and amenities that are perfect for a heatwave.
Location is everything. Southover Beach is situated just a stone’s throw from the surf, providing immediate, direct access to the sand. Forget worrying about parking on a busy day; you can simply leave the car in the private parking and stroll onto the beach. Many apartments even feature French windows opening onto balconies with breath-taking, panoramic views of Woolacombe Bay.
When you return from a hot day on the sand, the luxury continues. Southover Beach provides a dedicated wet/dry store to safely stow surfboards and wetsuits, plus a hot shower to wash off the sand and salt—no need to traipse through your accommodation with sandy feet. You can unwind in the 520 square foot communal terraced gardens, which feature built-in barbecues and amazing full-length beach views, perfect for that glass of wine as the kids settle off to sleep.
The apartments themselves are high-spec and self-catering, offering fully equipped kitchens and comfortable living spaces. With options ranging from cosy penthouses to spacious family garden apartments that can sleep up to 8, there’s a perfect space for every group. And for those wanting to bring the dog along, Southover Beach is pet-friendly, so the whole family can enjoy the adventure.
So, whether you’re chasing a cooling dip in the sea, exploring the local events, or simply relaxing with a BBQ while watching the sunset over the bay, Southover Beach is the ideal place to stay for an unforgettable summer holiday. Book your escape today and get ready to beat the heat in style!
