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Ocean Escape, Westward Ho!

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Ocean Escape is a spacious holiday home in Westward Ho!, North Devon, perfect for groups of up to 8 people. This property offers sea views, pet-friendly accommodation and excellent beach access. The location puts you right on the doorstep of one of Devon's finest sandy beaches.

Westward Ho! is a traditional seaside resort with a two-mile beach backed by pebble ridge and sand dunes. The village offers shops, cafes and restaurants within walking distance.

The accommodation sleeps 8 guests across multiple bedrooms with several bathrooms. Social spaces include a living room and dining area where groups can gather.

About Ocean Escape

Ocean Escape is a spacious holiday home in Westward Ho!, North Devon, perfect for groups of up to 8 people. This property offers sea views, pet-friendly accommodation and excellent beach access. The location puts you right on the doorstep of one of Devon's finest sandy beaches.

Westward Ho! is a traditional seaside resort with a two-mile beach backed by pebble ridge and sand dunes. The village offers shops, cafes and restaurants within walking distance.

The accommodation sleeps 8 guests across multiple bedrooms with several bathrooms. Social spaces include a living room and dining area where groups can gather. The property provides comfortable sleeping arrangements and facilities designed for larger parties.

Clovelly Village is 11 miles away (25 minutes). The Big Sheep theme park sits 3 miles away (10 minutes). Dartington Crystal is 8 miles away (20 minutes). RHS Garden Rosemoor is 15 miles away (30 minutes). These attractions offer activities for all ages.

Ocean Escape works brilliantly for beach-loving families and groups wanting coastal access. Book with Ocean Escape for a proper Devon seaside break.

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Need To Know

More Group Cottages You May Like

Local Insights: Ocean Escape

Unique information you won't find on booking sites

Westward Ho!, Devon

Weather & Local Conditions

16°C

Overcast

Updated: 28 Aug 2026, 3:07am

🌡️
16.30°C
Temperature
💨
12 km/h
Wind Speed
💧
92%
Humidity
🧳
Packing Tip: UK weather can turn quickly, so pack layers whatever the forecast. A waterproof and sturdy shoes mean the whole group can head out whatever August throws at you.

What to Expect Through the Year

  • May - September: Warmest, longest days - ideal for big group days out, gardens and BBQs
  • October - November: Crisp autumn colour, cosy evenings by the fire, quieter attractions
  • December - February: Perfect for a snug winter escape - great for Christmas and New Year gatherings
  • March - April: Spring blooms, longer evenings returning, wildlife becoming active
🌧️
Rainy Day Tip: A large cottage comes into its own on wet days - board games, a long lunch and a film with the whole group beat a cramped hotel any day. Check the tabs here for nearby pubs and attractions with indoor options.

Dark Skies & Stargazing

Ocean Escape sits in a location with genuinely dark skies - a real treat for a group, and something you rarely get at home in town.

Bortle Scale Rating

The Bortle scale measures night sky darkness from 1 (darkest) to 9 (brightest urban):

1
2
3
4
5
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7
8
9
🌌
Class 4 - Rural/suburban transition
This location's dark sky rating

What You Can See From the Cottage

The Milky Way is visible overhead, though light domes may be visible on the horizon towards larger towns.

The Milky Way is visible on clear, moonless nights.

Best Stargazing Conditions

  • New Moon periods: Darkest skies, best Milky Way visibility
  • Winter months: Earlier darkness, crisper skies, Orion constellation prominent
  • After 11pm: Neighbouring lights typically switched off
  • Allow 20 minutes: Let your eyes adjust to darkness before looking up
📱
Pro Tip: Download a stargazing app like "Sky Map" or "Star Walk" before arrival. Mobile signal can be limited, and these apps work offline - a fun activity to share with the whole group.

Location & Elevation

21m

(69 feet above sea level)

Ocean Escape sits in a peaceful Devon setting - space to spread out and the perfect base for a group getaway.

🏔️
21m
Elevation
📍
Westward Ho!
Nearest Village
🌲
Rural
Setting

What the Elevation Means for Your Stay

  • Fresher air: Expect it a touch cooler than coastal areas - bracing walks and restful sleep
  • Clearer air: Less pollution and haze, better views and stargazing
  • Morning mists: Valley fog sometimes forms below, creating magical sunrise views
  • Walking access: Higher starting point means shorter climbs to hilltops and summits
🚗
Driving Note: The roads to Westward Ho! are typical Devon lanes - narrow in places with passing spots. If the group is arriving in several cars, share the postcode and a meeting point in advance.

Coordinates

Latitude: 51.0391050° N | Longitude: 4.244112° W

Sunrise & Sunset Times

Today's sun times for Westward Ho! (Friday, 28 August 2026):

5:22am

Sunrise

6:13pm

Golden Hour

7:13pm

Sunset

🌅
5:22am
Sunrise
🌇
7:13pm
Sunset
📸
6:13pm
Golden Hour

Planning Your Days by Season

  • Summer (Jun-Aug): Sunset around 9:30-10pm - long days for group walks, days out and late alfresco dinners
  • Autumn (Sep-Nov): Sunset 5-7pm - perfect timing for an after-dinner drink as the stars come out
  • Winter (Dec-Feb): Sunset around 4pm - cosy early evenings by the fire, ideal for stargazing
  • Spring (Mar-May): Sunset 6-9pm - watch the evenings grow longer each day
🌙
Golden Hour: For the best light, plan your group photo or evening walk around golden hour (6:13pm). The warm colours make for lovely holiday photos before you head back in for dinner.

August Daylight

This month in Westward Ho!, you have approximately 13.85 hours of daylight. The long summer days mean plenty of time for group adventures before a relaxed evening back at the cottage.

Practical Essentials

Everything the group needs to know before you arrive at Ocean Escape.

Mobile Phone Signal

📱

Signal Strength

Good

Mobile signal is generally good in this area across most networks.

💡
Signal Tip: All major networks should work well here.

Nearest Essentials

🚗
Arrival Tip: Fill up with fuel before you arrive - petrol stations can be sparse in rural Devon. With a larger group it's worth doing one big supermarket shop on the way, especially if arriving late.

Family & Fun

Data updated: 28 Aug 2026 | Location: 51.0391050, -4.2441120

Information unique to this location - not available on booking sites

What Guests Love

What do previous guests think about their group stay at Ocean Escape

Direct Beach Access

The property sits moments from Westward Ho! beach, giving groups instant access to two miles of golden sand and excellent surfing conditions.

Pet-Friendly Policy

Dogs are welcome here, so your four-legged family members can join the seaside adventure and enjoy beach walks together.

Spacious Group Accommodation

Sleeping 8 guests comfortably, this property gives larger families and friend groups plenty of space to relax and socialise together.

Sea Views

Guests appreciate the coastal views from the property, bringing the seaside atmosphere right into your holiday home throughout your stay.

Village Location

Westward Ho! village centre is within easy reach, offering shops, cafes and restaurants without needing to drive anywhere.

Coastal Walking Routes

The South West Coast Path passes nearby, providing spectacular cliff-top walks with panoramic views across the Atlantic Ocean.

Getting To Ocean Escape

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

To reach Ocean Escape by car, take the A39 towards Bideford, then follow signs to Westward Ho! The property is easily accessible in the village with parking available on arrival.

By Train

For those travelling by rail, the nearest station is Barnstaple, approximately 6 miles away. From there, you can take a taxi or local bus service to Westward Ho! for the final leg of your journey.

Parking available at property
Barnstaple station (6 miles)
Easily accessible from the A39

Group Attractions & More Nearby

Stuff for larger groups and families to try!

The Big Sheep
Distance: 3 miles
EX39 5AP
Clovelly Village
Distance: 11 miles
EX39 5TQ
RHS Garden Rosemoor
Distance: 15 miles
EX38 8PH
South West Coast Path
Distance: 0.2 miles
EX39 1FP
Northam Burrows Country Park
Distance: 1 mile
EX39 1NZ
Westward Ho! Beach Walk
Distance: 0.1 miles
EX39 1LH
Co-op Food Store
Distance: 0.3 miles
EX39 1HE
Westward Ho! Village Shops
Distance: 0.2 miles
EX39 1HD
Bideford Town Centre
Distance: 3 miles
EX39 2DR
Barnstaple Bus Station
Distance: 6 miles
EX31 1LE
Bideford Long Bridge
Distance: 3 miles
EX39 2QR
Appledore Village
Distance: 2 miles
EX39 1PT
The Big Sheep
Distance: 3 miles
EX39 5AP
Clovelly Village
Distance: 11 miles
EX39 5TQ
RHS Garden Rosemoor
Distance: 15 miles
EX38 8PH
South West Coast Path
Distance: 0.2 miles
EX39 1FP
Northam Burrows Country Park
Distance: 1 mile
EX39 1NZ
Westward Ho! Beach Walk
Distance: 0.1 miles
EX39 1LH
Co-op Food Store
Distance: 0.3 miles
EX39 1HE
Westward Ho! Village Shops
Distance: 0.2 miles
EX39 1HD
Bideford Town Centre
Distance: 3 miles
EX39 2DR
Barnstaple Bus Station
Distance: 6 miles
EX31 1LE
Bideford Long Bridge
Distance: 3 miles
EX39 2QR
Appledore Village
Distance: 2 miles
EX39 1PT

Is Ocean Escape Right For Your Group

Discover why this cottage is the one for your party or family reunion...

For Families
Westward Ho! beach provides endless entertainment with two miles of sand for building castles and rock pooling. The Big Sheep theme park sits just 3 miles away with rides, animal encounters and indoor play areas. Surfing lessons are available on the beach during summer. The coastal location offers opportunities for crabbing, exploring rock pools and beach games that keep children occupied throughout the day.
Groups Will Love...
The beach location makes Ocean Escape perfect for groups wanting seaside access. Eight guests can spread out comfortably across the accommodation. Social spaces allow everyone to gather for meals and evening entertainment. The pet-friendly policy means no family member gets left behind. Westward Ho! beach offers activities for all ages from surfing to gentle walks. Groups can explore nearby attractions together or relax at the property.
Pet Friendly
Ocean Escape welcomes dogs, making it ideal for pet owners. Westward Ho! beach allows dogs year-round on certain sections, with full access outside peak season. The South West Coast Path provides spectacular walking routes right from your doorstep. Local facilities include pet-friendly cafes and pubs. The beach and surrounding countryside offer varied terrain for dogs to explore. Remember to bring towels for sandy paws after beach adventures.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at Ocean Escape

The Pier House

Located 0.2 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: EX39 1LH

Sandcastles Café

Located 0.3 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: EX39 1HD

The Pig on the Hill

Located 0.4 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: EX39 1HS

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about Ocean Escape

Is Ocean Escape pet-friendly?
Yes, Ocean Escape welcomes pets, so you can bring your dogs along for the holiday. The nearby beach and coastal paths provide excellent walking opportunities for your pets.
How many guests does Ocean Escape sleep?
Ocean Escape accommodates up to 8 guests across multiple bedrooms. This makes it suitable for larger families or groups of friends holidaying together.
What beach facilities are nearby?
Westward Ho! beach offers two miles of sand with lifeguard patrols during summer months. The beach is popular for surfing, swimming and rock pooling at low tide.
Is there parking at the property?
Yes, parking is available at Ocean Escape for guests. This makes it convenient for groups arriving by car with luggage and beach equipment.
What shops are within walking distance?
Westward Ho! village has local shops, supermarkets, cafes and restaurants all within walking distance. You won't need to drive for daily essentials or meals out.
Are there activities for children nearby?
The Big Sheep theme park is just 3 miles away with rides and animal attractions. The beach itself offers endless entertainment for children of all ages.
What is the nearest train station?
Barnstaple railway station is the closest, approximately 6 miles from Westward Ho!. Taxis are available from the station to reach the property.
Can we visit Clovelly from here?
Yes, the historic fishing village of Clovelly is 11 miles away, taking about 25 minutes by car. It's a popular day trip destination with its cobbled streets and harbour.

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