Destination Bideford

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• published: 03 Nov 2012
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Charles Kingsley's description of Bideford as "The Little White Town, which slopes upward from its broad river tide" paints a picturesque one hundred & fifty year old image of the town that has not changed much to the present day. In fact, if you approach this historic town from East-the-Water you can easily imagine you are being transported back to a time when life wasn't so hectic, and when Bideford was still one of the largest ports and market towns in the country. This is because many of the houses are still painted white with small cobbled paths and walkways that weave their way in between the houses as they did in Charles Kingsley's day. Bideford's ancient and iconic long bridge still stands proud, spanning the river Torridge and providing a link between the two sides of the town as it has for hundreds of years. However, Bideford is now definitely in the 21st century with its new Torridge Bridge, its recently enhanced quay area, excellent shopping, a variety of restaurants, and the lively pubs & themed bars where you can eat in or go alfresco. Then there are the theme parks like The Big Sheep & Atlantis Adventure, The Milky Way and so much more, which adds up to make Bideford a great place to stay in or visit. So, whether you're travelling on your own, as a couple, in a group or a family, Bideford has a wealth of exciting (or sedate) options that will cater for everyone's pace of life. You could enjoy a stroll around the town exploring the narrow streets on Bideford's heritage trail and visit the brightly coloured shops along the way, selling local fudge, arts & crafts and fresh local produce. Or for those of you who enjoy some present day retail therapy, you could pay a visit to the Atlantic Village Shopping Outlet where you can purchase the latest designer clothing, sportswear, household goods and much more. If you are feeling energetic, you could take a cycle ride or a walk on the Tarka Trail and stop for a spot of lunch and a beer at one of the many traditional pubs along the route, often supplied by acclaimed micro-breweries in the local area. Alternatively, you could visit the Burton Art Gallery with its Tourist Information Centre, view the various artists' work on display, or peruse the free museum. Then walk around Victoria Park with its excellent colourful floral displays. You could also check out the Kathleen & May, an historic schooner that's harboured at the Brunswick Wharf, just across from Bideford quay. Take a trip to Lundy Island on the MS Oldenburg, the ferry that regularly makes the 14-mile journey to the island and back. This will enable you to see Bideford, Lundy and the surrounding area from a very different perspective. Or, you could take a swim, surf or kite buggy at Westward Ho!, visit the amusement arcades, or walk along an incredible three-mile stretch of beach which holds blue flag status that's only a five-minute drive from Bideford Town centre. So, don't take our word for it, make sure you take time to visit this picturesque and unique destination in North Devon, and we'll make sure we give you a warm Bidefordian welcome! http://www.destinationbideford.co.uk/history-a-culture/46-about-bideford.html REF : eb985f6e47bc http://www.visuallink.co.uk Notice : If you are the business owner of this video and would like it moved to your own Youtube profile then contact us and ask for details.