North Devon

North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty protects 171 square kilometers of stunning coastal and inland landscapes in southwest England. The coast features dramatic cliffs rising up to 300 meters at Great Hangman, golden sandy beaches, and rocky headlands. This section of the North Devon and Somerset coast was designated as England's first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1959. The landscape transitions from rugged coast through rolling agricultural land to the edges of Exmoor. The area includes the biosphere reserve around Braunton Burrows, one of the UK's largest sand dune systems. Traditional villages and harbors like Combe Martin maintain strong fishing and farming traditions.

The North Devon coast has a rich maritime history, with coastal communities depending on fishing, trade, and smuggling for centuries. The area's dramatic beauty attracted Victorian and Edwardian tourists, establishing the tradition of seaside holidays. Recognition of the landscape's special character led to this being England's first AONB designation in 1959, setting the precedent for protecting outstanding landscapes outside national parks. Coastal erosion has always shaped the landscape, with cliff falls and beach changes constant features. Conservation efforts balance protecting natural processes with managing the popular coastal footpath and visitor sites.

The South West Coast Path traverses the entire AONB coastline, offering spectacular walking. Coastal villages including Combe Martin, Lynmouth, and Woolacombe provide abundant tourist facilities. Multiple car parks serve beach and coastal path access. Beaches at Woolacombe, Croyde, and Saunton attract surfers and families. The area is accessible by road from Barnstaple and surrounding regions. Visitor centers provide information on wildlife, geology, and walking routes. The area sees high visitor numbers in summer, with beaches and coastal path extremely popular. Off-season visits offer quieter experiences of the dramatic landscape.

Coastal cliff management accepts natural erosion processes while maintaining coastal path safety through monitoring and periodic rerouting. Beach and dune conservation at sites like Braunton Burrows requires managing visitor impacts and controlling invasive species. The area supports important seabird populations requiring protection from disturbance. Sustainable farming programs maintain the pastoral landscape of the hinterland. Managing high visitor numbers while protecting fragile coastal habitats requires education, clear signage, and sometimes seasonal restrictions. Climate change threatens heritage coastline through accelerated erosion and more severe storms. Tourism management promotes sustainable visiting and supports local communities economically invested in conservation.