Bideford

A market town located in North Devon is known for its rich history, culture, and stunning natural beauty.

With its beautiful quayside, historic Pannier Market, and beautiful surrounding landscapes, Bideford is a popular destination for visitors seeking a relaxing and authentic Devon experience.

The town’s history dates back to the medieval period, and visitors can explore a range of historic locations, including the Bideford Heritage Trail, which takes in notable landmarks such as the Long Bridge, St. Mary’s Church, and the Kingsley Museum.

Bideford is also home to a range of local shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as a variety of local events and festivals throughout the year.

About Bideford

While Bideford, North Devon is a busy town in its own right, tourism places a key role for many people and businesses in the local area.

This could be from ice cream sales to takeaway food, supporting local artists to festivals of thousands of people in the summer.

In short, Bideford is a bustling town that welcomes millions of visitors each year, boosting the local economy and supporting a diverse range of businesses and employment opportunities.

Population

Bideford is home to around 18,300 residents, making it one of the largest towns in North Devon.

Tourism

With over 6.3 million visitors annually, Bideford is a popular destination for day trips and longer stays. Visitors spend a total of £480 million in the region, supporting local businesses and employment.

Overnight Stays

Tourists stayed in Bideford for a total of 5.6 million nights. While 9% of visitors were from overseas, most were domestic, contributing to the local economy.

Employment

Bideford provides employment for around 11,100 people, accounting for 19% of employment in North Devon and 10% in Torridge. The local economy is heavily supported by the tourism industry.

Business Turnover

In addition to tourism, Bideford has a thriving business community, with an estimated business turnover of £560 million. This includes spending by local businesses and employees and revenue generated by the tourism industry.

* Sources ONS & Northern Devon Tourism Strategy 2018 – 2022