Tucked along the picturesque estuary in North Devon, the village of Appledore is a captivating blend of history, color, and coastal charm. Recently ranked third among Devon’s top places to live in the Muddy Stilettos' Top 300 Best Places to Live, this quaint fishing village offers a unique lifestyle for residents and visitors alike.
Just six miles west of Barnstaple, Appledore enchants with its narrow streets and brightly painted cottages, particularly along Irsha Street, where houses burst in every hue of the rainbow. Even on overcast days, the colorful façades inspire photographers and tourists to explore its vibrant character.
The locals’ affection for Appledore is evident. Keira Bissett, who has lived here for four years, shared, “It’s very touristy but still lovely to come down to. The pubs have live music, the atmosphere is always warm, and there are plenty of spots to explore and capture great photos. It’s never too rowdy, and I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else.”
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Margaret Smith, a local artisan and longtime Devon resident, appreciates the village’s rich history. “Having lived here for 38 years, I love Appledore’s quirky charm and historic significance. The village has managed to maintain its heritage even as it embraces modern updates,” she said.
Appledore’s maritime past runs deep, with its harbor tracing back to the Viking era when it helped defend England from raids. The village grew into a vital shipbuilding and fishing center, highlighted by the Harland and Wolff dockyard, which contributed to constructing parts of the Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers.
While residents cherish their village, some concerns remain. Parking fees have been criticized for being too high, and the lack of a zebra crossing next to busy parking areas presents a safety hazard. Becky Frisby pointed out, “A pedestrian crossing is badly needed because people park on the road, and it’s hard to see oncoming cars when walking through.”
Appledore also draws many visitors, especially during cultural events like the Appledore Book Festival, which features notable personalities such as Alexander Armstrong, Martin Clunes, and Michael Morpurgo. Festival attendees like Barbara Bridle, visiting Devon for the first time, have been impressed by the village’s charm despite the typical British weather.
Dog owners Phil and Gemma praised the village for its pet-friendly atmosphere. “We’re on holiday and found several dog-friendly hotels. Appledore is as picturesque as nearby Clovelly,” Phil noted.
Beyond its scenic views over the Torridge Estuary to Instow—connected by a seasonal ferry—Appledore thrives as a hub of community life. Local potter Heidi Knight highlighted the village’s balance, saying, “Appledore feels special because of both the dedicated local residents and welcoming visitors. There’s amazing food, live weekend music, and shops that cater to everyone. It’s a place full of community spirit.”
Despite challenges common to small villages, Appledore remains a shining example of success—a blend of history, culture, and community that its residents cherish and visitors fall in love with.