Wembury

Situated within the South Devon National Landscape and with the coastline forming part of the South Devon Heritage Coast, Wembury is a great place to visit if you fancy some rock pooling adventures or wildlife hunting.  

History of Wembury 

Throughout its history, Wembury has been shaped by its proximity to the sea, serving as a fishing village and later becoming a hub for shipbuilding and smuggling during the 18th century. 

A distinctive feature visible from Wembury Beach is the Mewstone, a triangular island which is uninhabited. In the past, it has been host to a prison and a private home, as well as a refuge for local smugglers. Its most infamous resident was Sam Wakeman who, in 1744, avoided transportation to Australia in favour of the cheaper option of transportation to the Mewstone, where he was interned for seven years. After his internment on the island, he remained there paying his rent by supplying rabbits for the Manor House table.   

Things to Do in Wembury 

The Devon Wildlife Trust oversees the Wembury Marine Centre situated near Wembury Beach and car park, which seeks to explain and educate, particularly school children, about the marine environment. Nature lovers will delight in exploring the Marine Centre, where they can discover the rich diversity of marine life inhabiting the area's rock pools and tidal reefs. Guided walks and educational programs offer insights into the local ecosystem, including the chance to spot seals, dolphins, and seabirds along the rugged coastline. 

Wembury also has a safe and popular beach administered by the National Trust, who also run the car park. Car parking in neighbouring roads is restricted between April and September (inclusive) to ensure freedom of access to the beach and Parish Church.  

Food & Drink in Wembury 

There is a lovely little cafe here serving hot drinks, cakes and sandwiches close to the beach, just down the hill from the car park. With a sheltered outdoor seating area, it’s a wonderful little sun trap. Further up in the village centre is a pub where you can enjoy a hearty roast and a pint of ale! 

Events in Wembury 

Wembury Marine Centre and the National Trust often host a variety is nature-based events, such as rockpool safari classes, beach cleans and mulching weekends. Wembury Local History Society host a number of historical talks throughout the year and the village hall provides coffee mornings for the local community. 

Something a little different 

Wembury is one of the best places in the country for a spot of rock-pooling. Get to the beach just before low tide and spend a few hours searching the pools and rocks for interesting sea creatures. You're likely to find limpets, anemones, shore crabs, pipe fish, sea scorpions, spiny star fish, Cornish sucker fish and edible crabs. 

Click here to see accommodation in and around Wembury.