Frequently asked questions...

What is Tunnels Beaches?
Tunnels Beaches is Ilfracombe’s most popular tourist attraction and its main beach. In recent years it has also become one of the UK's most popular wedding venues.

Why is a fee charged?
Tunnels Beaches is privately owned & receives no funding, grants or subsidies from local councils, or any other bodies. An entrance fee has been charged since 1823.

Your fee is necessary to keep the tunnels and beaches open to the general public, to maintain a very high standard of facilities, to clean the beaches and protect our beautiful coastline and its wildlife. The fee is also critical to allow maintenance of the tidal pool, which often suffers from severe storm damage.

Is the beach golden sand?
No, our natural coastline is NOT GOLDEN SAND!! It's rocky and dramatic.

Do you allow dogs?
Dogs are allowed through the tunnels on a lead but not on to the beaches. If you are visiting with your dog you can still read all the history information and admire the views.

Is the site accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs?
Yes, the ground throughout the tunnels themselves is either paved or concrete, access is good with only a gentle slope leading to the main beach. Access WCs and baby changing facilities are also available on site.

What are the opening times & admission prices?
View our Opening Times & Admission Prices >

Are our tickets valid all day?
Yes, tickets are valid all day – come and go as you please.

When can we see the tidal pool?
The tidal pool is visible from 3hrs before and until 3hrs after low tide. VIEW Tide Times >>

Should we check the tide times before we visit?
Yes, try to visit around low tide to see the tidal pool and for the best rock pooling - beware of incoming tide! VIEW Tide Times >

Wild swimming - when is the best time to swim in the pool?
The tidal pool is visible for 6hrs at a time (3 hrs before and after low tide). The best time to swim is as it first appears (3 hrs before low tide), when it is at it's deepest - it is a historic tidal Victorian pool and will naturally lose water across the 6hr period! VIEW Tide Times >

What facilities are open to Tunnels Beaches customers?
We have a fully licensed beach shop which sells beach goods & hot & cold refreshments (inc. great fresh coffee!). Beach toilets are located above our beach shop - overlooking the Ladies Beach. A toilet for those with disabilities is available at our main entrance.

Occasionally, our Exclusive Beach Front Wedding Venue opens as a restaurant on non-wedding days - dates will be listed nr. the top of our home page.

Do you close the beach on 'Wedding' days?
We have two beaches, the 'Gentlemen's Beach' is often closed due to weddings but the 'Ladies' Beach (with tidal bathing pool) is unaffected by weddings and remains open. Please bear in mind that on the hot sunny days during July and Augist that we have weddings taking place the Ladies' Beach can become very crowded!! Especially if high tide falls across the middle of the afternoon.

Are we able to watch the Wedding ceremony?
No, the wedding venue is completely private on the day of a wedding to respect the privacy of the happy couple! We also close the access to the tunnels for around 20-30 minutes to allow the Bride/Groom to walk through the tunnel to the venue in privacy.

How do we find you?
View our address, location map and contact details >