THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO THE ATLANTIC HIGHWAY

If you’re craving salty air, stunning coastal views, and a good dose of adventure, the Atlantic Highway is calling your name! This is a must-do road trip in Devon, it’s a dream route for surf enthusiasts, nature lovers and families looking to explore Devon and Cornwall.

The Atlantic Highway is our home, and it’s at the heart of everything we do at Saltrock. Our new spring/ summer collection is inspired by The Atlantic Highway for this very reason.

We’ve done the research (and the driving!) so you can hit the road stress-free. Here’s everything you need to know to make your Atlantic Highway adventure one to remember.

Whether you’re planning a weekend road trip or an extended adventure, this guide will help you discover top places to stop, where to eat, and what to do along this Devon/ Cornwall coastal road.

WHAT IS THE ATLANTIC HIGHWAY?

The Atlantic Highway (A39) is a stretch of road that runs along the North Devon and Cornwall coast. Its not just a road, it’s a journey through some of the most stunning spots in both counties. You’ll get a mix of rolling hills, dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches!

Distance: 70 miles

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT THE ATLANTIC HIGHWAY?

Spring, summer, and early autumn for milder weather and longer days.

WHERE DOES THE ATLANTIC HIGHWAY START AND FINISH? 

The Atlantic Highway starts in Barnstaple Devon and finishes in Newquay in Cornwall. The road hugs the coast most of the way!

TOP LOCATIONS TO VISIT ON THE ATLANTIC HIGHWAY

We’ve rounded up the best spots on the Atlantic Highway for you and your family to explore! Ready? Let’s hit the road.

BARNSTAPLE, DEVON

Perfect For: History Buffs

Barnstaple is the perfect starting point for your Atlantic Highway adventure! As Devon’s oldest town, it’s known for its Pannier Market and mixture of independent and high street stores.

Things to do in Barnstaple:
• Browse the Pannier Market for handmade treats
• Walk along the River Taw at Rock Park
• Visit our Saltrock store in the high street and meet Manager Karen and the team!

WHERE IS BARNSTAPLE LOCATED ON THE ATLANTIC HIGHWAY?

Barnstaple is right at the northern end of the Atlantic Highway and makes a perfect starting point for your road trip. If you’re setting your sat nav, pop in EX31 1SR.

INSTOW, DEVON

Perfect For: Estuary Views and Cream Teas

Instow is a hidden gem along the North Devon coast, it’s a little village sitting on the river Torridge with lovely estuary views across to Appledore. It’s the kind of place you go for a peaceful stroll on the beach, followed by a cream tea (or maybe a pint) at one of the local pubs. Loads of dogs can be seen on the beach too!

Things to Do in Instow:
• Walk along the beach at low tide
• Enjoy a Devon cream tea at The Quay Inn or Johns of Instow
• Cycle part of the famous Tarka Trail

WHERE IS INSTOW LOCATED ON THE ATLANTIC HIGHWAY?

Instow is just a short detour off the Atlantic Highway, around 10 minutes from Barnstaple. Sat nav ready? Use EX39 4JR.

WESTWARD HO!, DEVON

Perfect For: Family friendly beaches and Surf enthusiasts

Yes, it’s really called Westward Ho! With an exclamation mark! This beach is massive! perfect for walking the dog, building sandcastles, or simply soaking up the sea air. It’s also one of the best surfing spots in North Devon, with miles of golden sand backed by sand dunes and a ridge of pebbles.

Things to Do in Westward Ho!:
• Take a surf lesson for beginners
• Walk the Southwest Coast Path for amazing views of the sea
• Visit Northam Burrows for nature trails

Fun Fact: At Christmas Westward Ho! Becomes Westward Ho! Ho! Ho!

WHERE IS WESTWARD HO! LOCATED ON THE ATLANTIC HIGHWAY?

Westward Ho! Is about 20 minutes from Barnstaple! For your sat nav, punch in EX39 1LL.

CLOVELLY, DEVON

Perfect For: Car Free Adventure

Ever been to a village with no cars and cobbled streets that tumble down to the sea? Clovelly is like something out of a storybook! It’s a traffic-free village with steep cobbled streets, whitewashed cottages and a tiny harbour at the bottom.

Things to Do in Clovelly:
• Walk (carefully!) down to the harbour for the best views
• Try fresh seafood at The Red Lion
• Visit Clovelly Court Gardens if you love flowers
• Top Tip: Wear comfy shoes – it’s a steep walk back up!

Fun fact: Our stylist Becks lives in Clovelly, and she has to use a sledge to pull her shopping up and down the hill!

WHERE IS CLOVELLY LOCATED ON THE ATLANTIC HIGHWAY?

Clovelly is tucked just off the Atlantic Highway, around 25 minutes southwest of Bideford. Pop EX39 5TA into your sat nav to find it easily.

HARTLAND PENINSULA, DEVON

Perfect For: Coastal Walks

If you’re into wild coastlines and dramatic cliffs, the Hartland Peninsula is a total dream! It is a little quieter than the other spots on the Atlantic Highway, but this makes It feel like a hidden gem. There’s plenty of coastal walks above towering cliffs and secret coves perfect for a peaceful break or a swim.

Best Coastal Walks at Hartland
• Hartland Point to Speke’s Mill Mouth for waterfalls and jaw-dropping views
• Hartland Quay at sunset - it’s magical

WHERE IS HARTLAND PENINSULA ON THE ATLANTIC HIGHWAY?

The Hartland Peninsula is just off the Atlantic Highway, around 25 minutes southwest of Bideford. Just pop EX39 6AF into your sat nav and get ready to see some amazing seaside views.

BUDE, CORNWALL

Perfect For: Cold Water Swimmers

Just over the border into Cornwall, Bude is the perfect spot along the Atlantic Highway. It has a laid-back vibe, great beaches, and even a sea pool if you fancy a swim. Whether you're a cold-water swimmer, beach lover, or just looking to unwind, Bude’s got it all!

Things to do in Bude:
• Summerleaze Beach for a morning dip
• Bude Sea Pool - a saltwater pool right on the beach
• Visit our Saltrock store on the high street! The team are on hand to kit you out for your adventure.

WHERE IS BUDE ON THE ATLANTIC HIGHWAY?

You’ll easily find Bude as you continue south on the Atlantic Highway, located just about an hour away from Tintagel Castle. The postcode for Bude is EX23 8DJ and this will guide you straight into the heart of the town.

TINTAGEL CASTLE, CORNWALL

Perfect For: Book Lovers or those looking for an Adventure of Magic

Are you looking for some magic in your adventure? Head to Tintagel castle and walk in the footsteps of King Arthur. There’s a brilliant bridge that takes you across the island that has epic views and even Merlin’s cave! This is not one to miss on the Atlantic Highway.

Things to do at Tintagel Castle:
• Explore the ruins of Tintagel Castle, said to be the birthplace of King Arthur.
• Hike down to Merlin’s Cave beneath the cliffs (it’s a bit of a steep walk, but the views are worth it).
• Visit the King Arthur’s Hall for some fun mythological vibes.

WHERE IS TINTAGEL CASTLE ON THE ATLANTIC HIGHWAY?

Tintagel Castle is just a short detour from the A39, the Atlantic Highway, making it easy to add to your road trip. It’s located about 10 miles west of Camelford and is well signposted from the main road. The postcode for Tintagel Castle is PL34 0HE.

PADSTOW, CORNWALL

Perfect For: Cyclists or Families who love a bike ride. 

Padstow is small charming harbour town on the north coast of Cornwall. This town is amazing for seafood lovers with an array of seafood restaurants and cosy cafes. You can also enjoy a great bike ride along the famous trail. 

Things to do in Padstow:
• Go to the harbour to watch the seaside go by
• Try out the world's tastiest pasty! Located in Chough Bakery.
• Located on the camel trail so you can cycle from Padstow to Bodmin on an old railway trail. 
• Visit our store in the centre of town just up from the harbour and meet the team!

WHERE IS PADSTOW ON THE ATLANTIC HIGHWAY?

Padstow is located just off the Atlantic Highway (A39) on the north coast of Cornwall. The postcode for Padstow, Cornwall is PL28. If you're looking for a specific location, such as the harbour, use PL28 8AQ.

NEWQUAY, CORNWALL

Perfect For: Surfers or Families who love the beach.

Newquay is a vibrant coastal town on the north coast of Cornwall, known for its stunning beaches and world-class surf scene. With a lively atmosphere, fantastic seafood spots, and breathtaking coastal walks, it’s the ultimate destination for adventure seekers and ocean lovers.

Things to do in Newquay:
• Catch some waves at Fistral Beach, one of the UK’s top surfing spots.
• Walk the South West Coast Path for incredible ocean views.
• Visit the Blue Reef Aquarium to explore marine life up close.
• Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the harbour’s waterfront restaurants.
• Visit our store on the highstreet! 

WHERE IS NEWQUAY ON THE ATLANTIC HIGHWAY?

Newquay is located just off the Atlantic Highway (A39) on the north coast of Cornwall. To reach it, you’ll take the A392 from the Atlantic Highway, which leads directly into the town. The central postcode for Newquay is TR7, with TR7 1BD being a good reference for the town centre.

ROAD TRIP TIPS FOR THE ATLANTIC HIGHWAY

Take it Slow: There’s so much to see and explore on the Atlantic Highway. Stop at scenic viewpoints and unique villages along the way.

Fuel Up: Some stretches of the route can be a but remote so make sure you have plenty of fuel in the car.

WHAT TO PACK FOR THE THE ATLANTIC HIGHWAY - FAMILY FRIENDLY EDITION 

• Comfy Clothes & Layers: T-shirts, sweaters, jackets, and swimwear.
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and a beach umbrella.
• Sturdy Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes and flip-flops for the beach.
• Water Bottles & Snacks: Stainless steel water bottles and easy snacks like granola bars.
• Towels & Wet Wipes: Quick-dry towels and wipes for beach or muddy walks.
• Car Entertainment: Books, travel games, or tablets for long drives.
• Camera/Phone: Capture the stunning views and family moments.
• First Aid Kit: Plasters, antiseptic wipes, and any needed medications.
• Backpacks/Day Packs: Small packs for kids to carry their essentials.
• Beach Bag: Extra bag for towels, sunblock, and wet clothes.

Whether you’re chasing waves, hiking, or just enjoying the coastal vibes, this road trip offers something for everyone. So, grab your map, hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure along Devon's best coastline. We can’t wait to see you!