Northam Burrows Beach
Northam Burrows is really an extension of the vast, sandy expanse of Westward Ho! beach and sits at the mouth of the Taw and Torridge estuary.
The beach here wraps around from the main beach to the estuary and this presents a couple of dangers. Firstly the currents here are notorious and you shouldn’t even consider swimming. Secondly, if you do go for a long walk towards the sea at low tide make sure you know what time the tide is coming in as it is easy to get caught out.
To the back of the beach is a pebble ridge which has been created by the natural process of long shore drift. This is one of the main reasons that Northam Burrows is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Beyond this natural barrier are the dunes which form the Burrows. These are rich in various flora and fauna. Restharrow, Birds Foot Trefoil, dune Pansy, Hounds Tongue, Common Centaury, Vipers Bugloss, Sea Stock and Pyramidal Orchids are among the botanical highlights while lizards, moths, and of course rabbits make up some of the fauna.
For the birdwatchers there are Wheateaters and Skylarks to be seen and heard.
Type of beach
Sandy
Lifeguard service
No
Dogs friendly beach?
Dogs allowed
Dogs are allowed on the section of the Burrows to the east of the lifeguard hut at Sandymere. There is also a Dogs on Lead by Direction Order enforced. This means if an authorised officer of the Council asks a dog owner to put and keep their dog on lead,
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Northam Burrows Beach Reviews
Such a beautiful beach, so sandy and always so quiet.
Lovely for walking
Lovely place to walk especially when the tide goes out. Lots of rock pools to investigate. The only beach where you xan heard the bleeting of sheep and the song of Skylards as well as the distant sound of the waves heavenly