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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.