Steve's World Blog Information and articles on cities, towns and villages around the world.

A large and popular seaside resort located on the north coast of Devon, in the United Kingdom, Ilfracombe first developed around an Iron Age hillfort, established on a nearby hill. Its sheltered position, protecting it from the worst of the region’s stormy weather, led to its becoming an important seaport, and it was used for a number of naval sorties over the centuries. Making its income mostly from fishing for many years Ilfracombe has, since Victorian times become popular as a seaside holiday resort. The Victorian used it for sea bathing after tunnels were dug to several of its shingle beaches. These days it attracts holidaymakers, who enjoy its charming and attractive harbour, good climate and weather, superb coastal walks, boat trips and sea fishing trips. Catch up on the local history of Ilfracombe at the Ilfracombe Museum, where you will find interesting facts about the town’s maritime history, and also see a collection of model ships and steamers, which have sailed the Devon coast through the centuries.