Woolacombe
Woolacombe, North Devon EX34 7DL
Tel: 01271 870553 (TIC)
Email: info@woolacombetourism.co.uk
Woolacombe, its everyone’s favourite beach. Voted one of the UK’s best beaches, Woolacombe boasts almost three miles of soft golden sand and a gentle shoreline, making it a haven for all visitors.
With accessible paths, beach wheelchairs, and nearby facilities, everyone can enjoy the stunning coastal scenery. Whether relaxing on the sand or exploring the shoreline, Woolacombe offers an inclusive, welcoming experience.
Parking
The Esplanade car park is large but has no designated disabled bays. Sandy Burrows car park, situated just off Challacombe Hill Road, offers disabled spaces, though they are small. From here, there is easy access to the middle beach, but note that there is no drop curb, so you’ll need to exit near the barriers.
Additional disabled parking is available along The Esplanade, with other car parks nearby, though not all have designated bays.
Blue Badge holders can park for free in any pay-and-display bay along The Esplanade (not just the disabled bays), with no time limit. However, overnight parking is not permitted (Devon County Council regulations).
Wheelchairs
The Tourist Information Centre (TIC) on The Esplanade offers one Access For All Hippocampe beach wheelchair, and a Wheeleez beach wheelchair (courtesy of Parkin Estates).
These can be hired for free, with donations welcome.
A vacuum backrest is available to borrow for the Hippocampe beach wheelchair for those who need a little bit of extra trunk support.
The TIC also rents out a Tramper (All-terrain mobility scooter suitable for accessing the beach), which has a hire fee.
A Banana Board is also available to borrow.
An Airtushi inflatable seat insert for babies and toddlers, that fits in the Hippocampe beach wheelchair is available to borrow.
Giving support to smaller children. Safety guidelines on the packaging should be followed.
For details, contact Woolacombe TIC (info@woolacombetourism.co.uk)
Beach access
The Sandy Burrows carpark walkway is suitable for beach wheelchairs, and beach access is mostly level. However, sand movement and tide debris may require extra support when getting on and off the beach.
Another access point is The Esplanade carpark, which has ramp access to the beach, though soft sand can make it difficult to navigate.
Be aware: This access may be unavailable in 2025 due to the Beachcomber Café and retail unit redevelopment.
Toilets
There are two disabled toilets:
Sandy Burrows carpark – very small (may not accommodate larger wheelchairs), Radar key access, operated by Parkin Estates.
Barton Road (opposite Red Barn) – larger facility with Radar key access, operated by North Devon Council.
