Photographs from this trail

Ilfracombe, North Devon 9–10 May 2026

We look forward
to welcoming you

9–10 May 2026 101 open venues 3 zones Free to visit
What is the art trail?

What is the art trail?

The Ilfracombe Art Trail is an independent collaboration of artists, makers, galleries and beautiful gardens, all set in and around the town of Ilfracombe. Most venues are within an easy 20-minute walk of the High Street, with a handful well worth a short drive away in nearby Berrynarbor.

Whether you dip in for an hour or spend the whole weekend exploring, the Art Trail lets you choose your own route and discover something new at every stop. From striking paintings and sculpture to jewellery, ceramics, textiles and photography, there is an exciting variety of affordable art to enjoy — often in unexpected and characterful settings.

As you follow the trail, you’ll wander through Ilfracombe’s Victorian streets, peek into hidden corners, and enjoy the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that makes the event so special. Many venues offer the chance to pause for tea and cake, and the town’s independent Artisan cafés and eateries are perfect for a break between stops.

Now in its 9th year, the Ilfracombe Art Trail promises its biggest and most enjoyable event yet — a perfect opportunity to combine art, exploration and a great day out by the sea.

The Ilfracombe Art Trail is a non-profit organisation, funded primarily through participant fees, and is run by a small, dedicated committee of four members, all working together to create a lively and memorable experience for both artists and visitors alike.

Browse trail venues
Making art accessible to all

Making art accessible to all

Now celebrating its 11th year, the art trail continues to grow, welcoming an increasing number of artists and visitors each year. The trail showcases a rich and varied selection of affordable artwork by local artists, displayed across a wide range of venues, including galleries, studios and gardens throughout Ilfracombe.

Visitors can enjoy paintings, sculpture, photography, jewellery, printmaking, textiles, leatherwork and ceramics, alongside workshops running throughout the weekend —details of which you will find on here and in our brochure.

Using our clear and easy-to-follow map and guide, you can explore art in some delightfully unexpected locations, quite a few just a short stroll from the High Street. Experience the creativity of both local artists and those from further afield as you wander Ilfracombe’s Victorian streets and take in the diverse artistic offerings.

More about this

Find your way around

The trail is split into zones. Open one to see who is taking part there.

Meet a few makers

A taste of who you will find along the trail

See all 101
  • Lesley Ennis artwork

    8

    Studio or Gallery

    Lesley Ennis

    Mixed MediaSea Glass

    “I didn’t start out my working life with any intention of making art. Far from it! But moving to Devon 23 years ago, it was when beach combing with my then small children that I discovered how much glass was on the beach.”

    Not wheelchair accessible. There is no toilet, no view from the pavement and nothing to eat or drink. Ring ahead to ask what is possible.

    11 Burrow Road
  • Helen Cousans artwork

    7

    Studio or Gallery

    Helen Cousans

    Crochet

    “Hello I’m Helen, the maker behind My Yarn Wanderings.”

    Not wheelchair accessible. There is no toilet, no view from the pavement and nothing to eat or drink. Ring ahead to ask what is possible.

    Trinity Rooms
  • Caroline Baxter artwork

    38

    Studio or Gallery

    Caroline Baxter

    DrawingMixed MediaPainting

    “My love of doing Art just for doing Art continues.”

    Not wheelchair accessible. There is no toilet, no view from the pavement and nothing to eat or drink. Ring ahead to ask what is possible.

    18 St Brannock’s Park Road
  • Philippa Ellam artwork

    55

    Studio or Gallery

    Philippa Ellam

    Mixed MediaPaintingPrint-making

    “After retiring from a rewarding and challenging 35 year career as a nurse both in the NHS and hospice care I was excited to have time to learn to paint.”

    Not wheelchair accessible. There is no toilet, no view from the pavement and nothing to eat or drink. Ring ahead to ask what is possible.

    Cotswold

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Exhibit on the trail