Top pubs and restaurants in Woolacombe

The coastal haven of Woolacombe is a delicious prospect for a staycation, whether you’re looking for a fun-filled family break with the kids or embarking on a romantic retreat for two.

The vast, sandy beach is an internationally renowned surfing hot spot while the range of shops and eateries combine with a laid-back and welcoming ambience to create an inviting holiday prospect even out of season. It's also home to some of our favourite Devon eateries.

Our cottages in Woolacombe are self-catering, and it’s always fun to rustle up a treat in a new kitchen. However, we’d recommend taking at least one night off to sample some of the tasty fare on offer courtesy of Woolacombe’s restaurants, pubs, cafés and takeaways. You might also be interested in our Devon food and drink guide.

Cottages in Woolacombe

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Woolacombe restaurants

The standard of places to eat in Woolacombe is high – let’s start by exploring the restaurants in the village.

Picture credits: Bar Electric 

Bar Electric

A fabulous café/bar/restaurant right in the heart of Woolacombe, Bar Electric offers the best of all worlds. Family and dog friendly, with a relaxed vibe, this is the place to come for lunch in the sunshine, just a short stroll from the beach, or to spend a sociable evening over a delicious meal and a few drinks.  

Savour sea glimpses from the terrace as you tuck into a mouthwatering, homemade dish from the wide-ranging menu or sip on a refreshing cocktail. Bar Electric doesn’t take bookings, which is worth bearing in mind when planning your visit.

Picture credits: timetonourish (left) and healthyhedonistickitchen (right)

The Tides Inn

The Tides Inn boasts brilliant coastal views from the sun terrace. And the menu is as appealing as the central location. From salads and sandwiches to a traditional Sunday roast – and so much in between – you’ll be spoiled for choice! Whatever you pick, be sure to leave room for dessert; lemon posset and apple crumble are just two of the recent options.

Quench your thirst with something from the array of beers, wines and cocktails served here. Kids are catered for, and canine companions are welcome, provided they keep their paws on the floor.

Picture Credit: Bay Brasserie

Bay Brasserie

The Bay Brasserie sits within the Woolacombe Bay Hotel and it is a prime spot for fine dining at a relaxed pace. No matter the time of day, they’ve got you covered.

Perhaps call in for a bite of brunch (options include crushed avocado on sourdough toast) then meander down to the beach for a day of sunbathing and a dip in the sea. Or you might want to dress for dinner after a walk along the coast. Got something to celebrate? Afternoon tea with bubbles is just the ticket. Dogs are welcome in the indoor courtyard.

Picture credit: Tom Davison

Nothing is off the table at The Captain’s Table. Sharing platters, pizzas, and burgers sit alongside a selection of Captain’s favourites such as seafood linguine and Mexican fajitas on the main menu – and there is much more besides to get those tastebuds tingling. You can start the day with a hearty breakfast, enjoy a light lunch or round off a great day with an evening meal.

What’s more, the folks at this welcoming eatery take their environmental responsibilities seriously, including using cardboard packaging and local suppliers and seasonal produce as much as possible.

Beach House

This is a charming, family-run restaurant where the team is committed to serving the freshest food and providing excellent service. The menu is predominantly seafood with roasts on Sunday, but vegetarian dishes are available, and every effort is made to accommodate any specific dietary requirements. Being a small and popular venue, it’s advisable to book to avoid disappointment.     

Little appetites are accounted for with a children’s menu, and highchairs are available. If you’re on holiday with the doggo, no problem! Canines are as welcome as humans and might even be offered a treat.

Pubs in Woolacombe

Looking for an inviting place to spend an evening, chatting over a drink or enjoying a meal? Here are some of our favourite pubs in Woolacombe.

Picture credits: _ronnie_the_cockapoo (left) and krustyward (right)

Standing proudly facing the sea, The Red Barn is an iconic Woolacombe landmark and was run by the same family for decades. Popular as a hangout for local surfers for many years, it also attracts visitors in spades.

The Red Barn began life in 1907 as a tearoom, then became the American Red Cross Service Club during the Second World War, serving the US troops that were in Woolacombe training for the Normandy landings. In the 60s, it was revamped as a summer café and remained so until becoming a pub in 1997 – and opening all year round.

Picture credit: exploring_all_the_foods

Whether you’re looking for a fun night out involving a few cocktails (check out the fabulous non-alcoholic options) or you fancy some quality pub grub, then The Jube is well worth a visit. Tucked away in the heart of Woolacombe, it’s a great spot to unwind and get in the holiday spirit.

The whole family, including those with four paws, are welcome at this family-run establishment and when the weather is fine, you can grab a table outside. The menu features a scrummy range of mains, burgers, salads, tapas and light bites. What’s not to love?

Captain Jack’s

Set in one of the oldest buildings in Woolacombe, Captain Jack’s is a quirky and unique place to spend an afternoon or evening. The vibrant atmosphere and nautical theme endear this pub to all who visit. In addition, the lovely beer garden is a fabulous spot to relax on a sunny day. Families and four-legged friends are welcome, but pups must stay out of the main restaurant.

Food-wise, there is plenty of variety on the menu: Sunday lunch, a ploughman’s, a main meal or a tasty burger – whatever catches your eye. Children are well catered for too.

The Old Mill

Lying on the outskirts of Woolacombe is The Old Mill. This former 17^th-century water mill is bursting with character and charm. Offering live sports and entertainment, you’re guaranteed to have a good time. Thanks to outdoor heaters, you can enjoy the beer garden even when the weather turns a bit chilly.

Children will be happy to know there is a play area. It’s also possible to book the venue for special occasions such as an engagement or birthday. Choose your meal from the rolling specials menu or sit down to a Sunday carvery. Dogs are welcome.

Woolacombe takeaways and cafés

From pizza to fish and chips, Woolacombe has a range of takeaways, and its cafés offer light bites and sweet treats aplenty.

Woolacombe Fryer

For first-class fish and chips in Woolacombe, head to the Woolacombe Fryer. Only the finest ingredients go into creating the ultimate British seaside delicacy. Don’t fancy fish? Burgers, chicken dishes, pies and sausages are also available.

Woolacombe Bay Pizza Company

Since 2007, this family-run business has been serving up flavour-packed pizzas and burgers to locals and visitors alike. After a day on the beach or an exhilarating walk, what could be more delightful than enjoying a pizza together?

En Thai Singh

Sat right in the heart of Woolacombe, En Thai Singh dishes up authentic Asian flavours – and 99% of the menu is gluten-free! You can conveniently order online, removing the hassle of deciding what to eat that night.

Picture credits: Beachcomber Café

The closest you’ll get to eating on the beach, without actually being on the sand. Beachcomber enjoys a prime spot, where you can tuck into brunch or lunch, or grab a coffee. Vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options are available. Dogs are welcome.

Picture credit: The Porthole (left)

The Porthole, set above Woolacombe’s sand dunes, offers an enviable coastal panorama to behold as you munch lunch or sip a coffee. Work up an appetite for the sweet and savoury delights on sale with a beach walk.

Picture credits: Fergus McIver

Just around the bay from the main beach, is Barricane, a sheltered cove where, in addition to light bites during the day, the café’s owners serve Sri Lankan dishes in the evenings during the summer season (check the café’s website page for updates on exact timings). It's one of our favourite Devon eateries.

Map of places to eat in Woolacombe

Stay in Woolacombe

If this round-up of places to eat in Woolacombe has left you hungry for more, then why not book a holiday cottage in Woolacombe? We have an extensive range of properties in the delightful seaside village, so whet your appetite by clicking the link below. 

Woolacombe holiday cottages