Pictures of Bideford

in the county of Devon

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About Bideford

For the two hundred years between 1550 and 1750 Bideford held the reputation of being the principal port of north devon and, the home of a successful shipbuilding industry. A charter was granted by Queen Elizabeth 1 to Sir Richard Greville, who crewed his ship "Revenge" entirely with Bideford men. This vessel is famous for it's stand against the Spanish ships in the Azores.

Trade with american colonies brought wealth and prosperity to the town in the 17th and 18th centuries and many of the elegant Merchant houses, still to be seen today, date from this period. A famous landmark is the bridge spanning the River Torridge, this is of 15th century structure and is unusual that all 24 arches differ in width. Needless to say, over the centuries this bridge has been extensively renovated to enable it to take modern day heavy traffic.

To-day, Bideford is a lively resort which luckily still retains the flavour and charm of a small market town. Along the river Torridge there are quaint white houses to be seen and the lovely tree-lined quayside reveals an estuary full of smart yatchs and colourful fishing craft.

This popular town is immensely attractive and offers to visitors a wide range of seaside activities. You can take a pleasure boat trip around the many beautiful bays, laze and swim from local beaches, join a pony trek through the pretty countryside or simply amble around this pleasant town enjoying the variety of shops, inns and markets that are all there to tempt you.

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Hotels & Accommodation in Bideford

	Tantons Hotel New Road, Bideford, Devon, England (0.1 miles, 0.2 km) Tantons lies at the heart of historic Bideford, adjacent to the town centre and opposite the ancient bridge. Perfectly situated base to explore the local area. Tantons Hotel is privately owned and m... More info and book online.. Price from £35.00
	The Royal Hotel Barnstaple Street, Bideford, Devon, Devon, England (1.1 miles, 1.8 km) Set at the Eastern end of ancient Bideford Bridge, this hotel is associated with the 17th-century Court of Assize, Sir Charles Kingsley, and the D-Day Landings; ideal for a heritage enthusiast. On... More info and book online.. Price from £65.00
	Durrant House Hotel Heywood Road, Northam, Bideford, Devon, England (1.1 miles, 1.8 km, direction N) Now under new ownership It is our aim to provide you with the highest standard of personal service, comfort and cuisine. You are well placed to explore one of the most beautiful parts of the country. ... More info and book online.. Price from £55.00
	The Pines At Eastleigh Eastleigh, Bideford, Devon, England (2.4 miles, 3.8 km, direction E) A Georgian country house set in 7 hilltop acres with magnificent views over the Torridge Estuary to Lundy Island. Selected by the AA as 'One of Britain's Best in 2007'. Lynn and Robin Pirrie welco... More info and book online.. Price from £59.00
	The Hoops Inn & Country Hotel Horns Cross, Clovelly, Bideford, Devon, England (5.2 miles, 8.3 km, direction SW) If you are seeking the authentic flavour of the West Country then look no further. This picture-book Thatched Inn is nestled in some of Englands most unspoilt countryside. This lovingly cared for Gr... More info and book online.. Price from £65.00

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Nearby travel help

Barnstaple Station	(7.4 miles, 11.8 km, direction NE)
Chapleton Station	(8.0 miles, 12.8 km, direction E)
M5 Junction 28	(37.7 miles, 60.7 km, direction E)
M5 Junction 27	(37.8 miles, 60.9 km, direction E)
Exeter Airport	(39.5 miles, 63.6 km, direction SE)
Plymouth City Airport	(41.2 miles, 66.3 km, direction S)
Bideford to London	(180.2 miles, 290.0 km, direction E)