About Combe Martin Museum & Information Point

Accredited & Award-Winning 

Explore, Experience, Learn

Last modified on August 14, 2025

A Modern, Accessible Devon Tourist Attraction

  • A top-rated Museum and Information Point for all ages and abilities
  • In a scenic seaside location on the edge of Exmoor National Park, North Devon
  • Copy Shop with A3/A4 printing, photocopying and laminating facilities at low prices
  • Museum Shop with free Wi-Fi and internet access for visitors
  • Pre-loved and new books, maps and local history books available for purchase
  • Combe Martin Museum is family-friendly and dog-friendly
  • Near Kiln Car Park on Cross Street, Combe Martin, Ilfracombe, EX34 0DH
  • Open Monday–Friday, 10:30 pm–4:30 pm | Sundays (July and August): 11:00 am-3:00 pm
  • Admission: Adults £3.00 | Concessions: £2.00 | Accompanied Children: Free Entry
  • Tel: +44 (0)1271-889031 during business hours
Open a Summary of This Article↗

  • Combe Martin Museum and Information Point is a brightly lit, accessible and inclusive experience.

  • We first opened in 1989, in the building above Newberry Beach.

  • In 2009, the museum moved to its present home on Cross Street, close to Combe Martin Seaside and the Kiln Car Park.

Discover Combe Martin Museum

  • Three floors of local heritage: all levels are packed with displays on the area’s social, industrial, and maritime heritage.

  • View the famous Combe Martin silver, the village's industrial history, and the Earl of Rone festival costumes.

  • Exhibits showcase Combe Martin’s roots in traditional farming, craftsmanship, and seaside shops.

  • Our tourist information point offers advice on nearby walking routes, including the South West Coast Path.

  • We are a stamp station for South West Coast Path walkers.

  • A Gift Shop with a display of gifts, maps, books, artwork and keepsakes.

Our Museum Team

  • The museum is run by dedicated local trustees and volunteers.

  • The museum would not run without its experienced and friendly team of volunteers. Their skills, knowledge and enthusiasm support the museum, collections and visitors. 

  • Our local people's roots and ties to the village create a welcoming and authentic atmosphere.

Accessibility Information

  • Visitors will find our bright museum easy to navigate and enjoy, with Makaton symbol language and audio tools.

  • A steward-operated passenger lift provides access to all three floors.

  • Our 'Talking Pen' provides audio guidance for those with visual impairments.

  • The museum is very child friendly and it's also accessible to wheelchair users. 

  • Visitors can enjoy videos and sound recordings as part of an immersive sensory experience.

Highlights for Visitors

  • Displays and Information, showcasing Combe Martin's rich industrial and agricultural heritage.

  • Large 3d map models and interactive landscapes.

  • Explore our activity hub, equipped with fossils and information, microscopes and magnifying glasses.

  • A walk-in copy shop and print facilities for customers.

  • Free wi-fi and use of the museum laptop.

Local Travel and Tourist Information

  • Bus and rail link timetables available.

  • Brochures for attractions and accommodation, and details on local events and activities.

Combe Martin Heritage Displays

  • A life‑size period Cottage.

  • Sail Loft with model boats, and maritime artefacts detailing local seafaring.

  • Get in the Earl of Rone spirit with dressing-up boxes for kids. 

  • Detailed exhibits on Combe Martin's social history, pictorials, lime burning heritage, and the remarkable strawberry industry.

Activities for all the Family

  • Hands-on activities include kids colouring books and games.

  • A seaside laboratory, for exploring Combe Martin's unique local geology, and marine life.

Book an Adventure with Combe Martin Museum

  • Planned Beach Safaris and rock-pooling sessions are led by museum volunteers, and advertised by the museum.

  • There are also planned educational workshops, and craft activities for children. We'll post these on our Events page.

Combe Martin's Community and Educational Hub

  • This museum is also a community hub, hosting popular fortnightly coffee mornings, with a raffle.

  • Activities and educational visits for schools, by arrangement.

  • The ideal space for families, and where kids are admitted free of charge!

  • Crafty Ladies meetings raise funds for the museum.

Seminars and Fundraising Events

  • Daytime and evening activities, as advertised.

  • Guest presenters and slide shows.

Collection Highlights

  • Unique Local Stories and Artifacts: The museum showcases Combe Martin’s distinctive customs and 'Shammickites'.

  • The famous “Earl of Rone” festival, and the village’s Guinness World Record for the longest street party in 2002.

  • Indenture documents for 19th century local apprenticeships. 

  • Displays include mining tools, farm implements, and historic photographs.

Supported by Local and Regional Collaboration

  • Led by local trustees and dedicated volunteers

  • Hosts coffee mornings, seminars, and fundraising events

  • Active partnerships with Exmoor Zoo, Coastwise, AONB North Devon

  • Supported by the Exmoor National Park Authority

  • Cultural development supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund

  • Supported by regional organisations

Support Combe Martin Museum and Information Point

Registered Charity No.1167141 | Accredited Museum