Bideford Tourist Attractions
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Some 9mi/14km southwest of Barnstaple is Bideford (pop. 13,000), an old seaport, situated on the estuary of the Torridge with a bridge composed of 24 arches. There are many handsome houses of the 17th, 18th and early 19th centuries; the Church of St Mary's is noted for its fine Norman font. On the picturesque quay, a relic of the time when Bideford carried on a thriving trade with America, there is a statue of Charles Kingsley (1819-75), who wrote his famous novel "Westward Ho!" in a house which is now part of the Royal Hotel.
Westward Ho!, England
Westward Ho!, a seaside resort named after Charles Kingsley's novel, lies 4mi/6km to the northwest of Bideford. It has a fine sandy beach 3mi/5km long and a golf-course.Westward Ho! is known for its surfing seas as well as the arcades and go-kart track.
Rosemoor
Rosemoor was gifted to the Royal Horticultural Society in 1988 by Lady Anne Berry. Its 40 acres are set in the beautiful Torrbridge Valley in North Devon and have been developed into a garden of great variety, interest and national importance. Gardeners of all backgrounds and abilities will find inspiration in the plant selections and obtain valuable information at the Visitor Centre and plant centre.
Docton Mill and Gardens
Docton Mill and Gardens is located in Bideford, near Hartland in Devon. The mill is of Saxon origin and has been restored. The gardens sprawl over 8 acres and have gained internationally recognition for their landscaping and variety as they appear frequently on the BBC and ITV.
Tapeley Park Gardens
Tapeley Park Gardens near Bideford are a national garden in the making. On the 20 acres site there are variety of gardens including a recently renovated Italian Terrace and a restored vegetable garden. You will also find an Organic Permaculture Garden and a Wild Garden with a children's play area.
Bideford Pictures
