Bideford to Westward Ho! (and vice versa)

Bideford and Westward Ho! are beautiful towns in Devon, England.

Bideford is a historic port town on the River Torridge, known for its maritime heritage. Westward Ho! on the other hand is a seaside resort with a vast sandy beach.

Both towns offer outdoor activities like coastal walks and water sports. Bideford is a gateway to Lundy Island, a nature reserve.

The towns have vibrant communities, hosting festivals and events.

Visit these charming coastal destinations for a delightful experience in Devon.

But, you may wonder, how do you get to these places?

Bideford to Westward Ho!

Journeying from Bideford to Westward Ho! takes you on a captivating coastal adventure in Devon, England.

Starting in Bideford, a historic port town on the River Torridge, you’ll explore its maritime heritage and charming streets.

As you make your way to Westward Ho!, a seaside resort known for its vast sandy beach, you’ll be enchanted by the natural beauty of the North Devon coast.

This scenic route offers a delightful combination of history, stunning landscapes, and seaside relaxation, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a memorable journey in Devon.

Bideford to Westward Ho! by Car

Travelling by car from Bideford to Westward Ho! is a convenient and picturesque journey, taking approximately 8 minutes to cover a distance of 3.5 miles.

The fastest route, considering current traffic conditions, is via A386 and Buckleigh Rd/B3236.

Starting from Bideford, follow Torridge Hill to New Rd/A386 for a brief 55-second drive covering 0.2 miles.

Then, continue on A386 for about 6 minutes, covering 2.2 miles, until you reach Buckleigh Rd/B3236.

Continue on Buckleigh Rd/B3236 for another 3 minutes, covering 1.1 miles, and you will arrive at Kingsley Rd in Westward Ho!

Enjoy the scenic drive and explore the beauty of Westward Ho!’s seaside village.

Bideford to Westward Ho! by Train

When travelling from Bideford to Westward Ho! using public transportation, the most convenient option is to take a train. Here’s the information you need:

Travel Time

The train journey from Bideford to Westward Ho! takes approximately 20 minutes.

Nearest Train Station

The nearest train station to Bideford is Barnstaple Station. From Bideford, you can reach Barnstaple Station by taking a local bus or taxi.

Route

From Barnstaple Station, board a train towards Exeter St Davids.

Westward Ho! does not have a train station, so you will need to disembark at the nearest station, which is Barnstaple.

Bus Connection

Upon arrival at Barnstaple Station, you can take a local bus to reach Westward Ho! The most common bus route is the Stagecoach bus service number 21.

This bus operates between Barnstaple and Westward Ho! and will take you directly to your destination.

Please note that bus schedules may vary, so it’s advisable to check the latest timetables to plan your journey accordingly.

Enjoy your trip from Bideford to Westward Ho! and the scenic beauty of the North Devon area.

Other Transport Options

Taxi/Uber

When travelling from Bideford to Westward Ho!, you can opt for a taxi or use ride-hailing services like Uber.

Here’s some information to assist you:

Travel Time

The journey by taxi or Uber from Bideford to Westward Ho! takes approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the route taken.

Cost

The cost of the taxi or Uber ride will vary based on factors such as the distance travelled, time of day, and any surge pricing.

It’s advisable to check the fare estimate on the Uber app or inquire with local taxi services to get an accurate idea of the cost. The fare typically ranges from £10-£15.

Route

Taxis and Uber drivers are familiar with the most efficient routes. Generally, they will take the A386 and B3236 roads, offering scenic views of the North Devon coast throughout the journey.

Choosing a taxi or Uber provides convenience and door-to-door service, allowing you to relax and enjoy the ride to Westward Ho!

Remember to consider factors like availability and wait times, especially during peak travel periods, and always ensure your safety by using licensed services.

Walking/Bike

Certainly! Here’s the information for travelling from Bideford to Westward Ho! by walking or biking:

By Walking:

Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour
Route: Start your journey in Bideford and head towards the Quay. From there, follow the South West Coast Path, which will take you along the beautiful coastal route towards Westward Ho!. Enjoy the scenic views of the coastline as you walk. The path is well-marked and relatively easy to navigate. After about an hour of walking, you will arrive at Westward Ho! beach.

By Bike:

Travel Time: Approximately 20-30 minutes
Route: Begin your bike ride from Bideford and head towards the Torridge Bridge. Cross the bridge and continue along the A386, following the signs for Westward Ho!. The road is relatively flat and suitable for cyclists. After approximately 20-30 minutes of biking, you will reach Westward Ho! and can explore the town and its beautiful beach.

Please note that travel times may vary depending on individual walking or biking speed. It’s always a good idea to check the weather conditions and plan accordingly.

Enjoy your journey from Bideford to Westward Ho! and soak in the stunning coastal scenery along the way!

While visiting Bideford or Westward Ho!, don’t miss out on the top 9 places not to miss out on when travelling to Bideford.

Why go to Westward Ho!?

Westward Ho! beckons with its stunning beach, natural beauty, outdoor adventures, rich history, and vibrant atmosphere.

The captivating sandy beach stretches for miles, inviting relaxation and water sports.

Explore the rugged cliffs and rolling hills, indulge in thrilling activities like surfing and kayaking, and embark on scenic walks along the South West Coast Path.

Immerse yourself in the area’s history, visiting landmarks and remnants of WWII.

Experience the warm hospitality, browse local shops, savour delicious food, and partake in lively festivals.

Westward Ho! offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, history, and vibrant community, promising an unforgettable coastal getaway.

Featured Places to Stay Near Bideford

Westward Ho! to Bideford

Westward Ho! offers a captivating coastal destination with a stunning sandy beach, beautiful natural surroundings, and rich history in Devon.

From water sports and coastal adventure to historical landmarks, the town has something for everyone.

As you journey from Westward Ho! to Bideford, you’ll continue to enjoy scenic coastal views and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of both places.

Bideford, with its historical charm and bustling town centre, awaits to complete the journey with its own unique delights, ensuring a memorable coastal experience.

Things to do in Westward Ho!

Experience the allure of Westward Ho! with a wide range of activities to suit all preferences, from relaxing on the sandy beach and trying thrilling water sports to exploring scenic coastal walks and immersing yourself in the town’s rich history.

It’s the perfect destination in North Devon to unwind, indulge in delicious local food, and create lasting memories.

Here are some things that you can do in Westward Ho!:

Relax on the Beach: Enjoy the stunning sandy beach, soak up the sun, and take a dip in the refreshing waters.
Try Water Sports: Engage in exciting water sports activities like surfing, paddleboarding, or kiteboarding.
Explore the South West Coast Path: Embark on scenic walks along the South West Coast Path, offering breathtaking views of the coastline.
Visit Northam Burrows Country Park: Explore this beautiful coastal park with its sand dunes, salt marshes, and diverse wildlife.
Take a Day Trip to Lundy Island: Catch a ferry from nearby Bideford and visit the scenic Lundy Island, known for its wildlife, rugged landscapes, and historic sites.

Things to do in Bideford

Welcome to Bideford, a charming town nestled along the picturesque River Torridge in North Devon.

With its rich history, scenic quayside, art galleries, and delightful shopping experiences, Bideford offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy and discover the unique character of this vibrant town.

Visit the Burton Art Gallery: Discover a treasure trove of art and exhibitions at the Burton Art Gallery, showcasing a diverse range of works by local and regional artists.
Learn at the Bideford Heritage Centre: Immerse yourself in the town’s rich history at the Bideford Heritage Centre, which offers fascinating displays and exhibits about Bideford’s past.
Enjoy Shopping: Explore the unique independent shops and boutiques in Bideford, offering a variety of goods, including arts, crafts, clothing, and local produce.
Discover Tapeley Park: Visit the historic Tapeley Park and Gardens, featuring stunning gardens, woodland walks, and a unique house filled with intriguing history and architectural features.

In Summary

Bideford and Westward Ho! are beautiful coastal towns in Devon, England. Bideford boasts a rich maritime heritage, while Westward Ho! offers a vast sandy beach and thrilling water sports.

Both towns provide outdoor activities, vibrant communities, and opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the North Devon coast.

Whether you’re strolling along the quayside in Bideford, surfing in Westward Ho!, or immersing yourself in local festivals, these charming destinations have something for everyone.

Visit Westward Ho! for a delightful seaside experience and share your own adventures in the comments below.

Do also check our travel guide from Bideford to Great Torrington for your next trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

These are the common questions about travelling between Bideford and Westward Ho! answered.

Q: How much is a taxi from Bideford to Westward Ho?
A: The taxi fare from Bideford to Westward Ho! is approximately £9-£11, and the journey takes around 6 minutes. It is the fastest and most convenient way to travel between the two locations.

Q: Is it worth visiting Westward Ho?
A: Westward Ho! is definitely worth a visit, especially for its beautiful beach. The expansive sandy beach is perfect for activities like volleyball and rounders, and there is also a pebble ridge where you can relax and enjoy the views. It’s a great destination for beach lovers and those seeking a relaxing coastal experience.

Q: Does Bideford have a train station?
A: Bideford does not have a train station. The nearest train station is Barnstaple, and from there, you can reach Bideford by bus or taxi. However, Bideford Railway Heritage Centre manages the Bideford station site, which is part of the old railway line from Barnstaple to Bideford and provides insight into the area’s railway history.

Q: What island can you see from Westward Ho?
A: From Westward Ho!, you can enjoy breathtaking views across the Atlantic Ocean towards Lundy Island. Lundy Island is a beautiful and secluded island known for its diverse wildlife, rugged landscapes, and historic sites. It adds to the scenic beauty of the coastal scenery seen from Westward Ho!.

Q: What type of beach is Westward Ho?
A: Westward Ho! boasts a vast sandy beach that extends for 2 miles north of the town. The beach is predominantly sandy, although there are areas of rocks and pebbles at the southern end. A promenade runs alongside the beach, and to the north, there is a pebble ridge backed by Northam Burrows Country Park. It offers a diverse and picturesque beach experience.

Matt Ogborne

About the Author

Welcome to Bideford.com! I’m Matt, a seasoned explorer and avid fan of Bideford and the broader North Devon area. With over a decade of consistent family visits, virtually every weekend, I’ve immersed myself in the rich history and vibrant culture Bideford & North Devon.

On this site, you’ll find a wealth of knowledge amassed from my adventures here. From in-depth local guides to engaging blog posts about Bideford. Whether you’re looking for recommendations on things to do or guidance on where to stay we have you covered. Join me as we delve into the heart of Bideford, North Devon – a town that’s more than just a destination, but an experience waiting to be discovered.

Do you want to see your favourite Bideford attraction, place to stay, event or activity listed here? Contact Us!