Ilfracombe is a seaside resort on the north coast of Devon, with a small harbour, surrounded by cliffs. The town stretches along the coast from 'The Coastguard Cottages' in Hele Bay toward the east and 6 km along The Torrs to Lee Bay toward the west. The resort is hilly and the highest point within the town boundary is at 'Hore Down Cross', 3 km inland and 270 m (860 ft) above sea level. A seasonal foot passenger ferry service runs from the harbour to Lundy Island and The Balmoral, The Waverley and pleasure boats ply to Porthcawl near Swansea.

Key Stats

• The population of the market town area has grown by about 14% since 1991. This is inline with the rate of growth across the district and county. The population is c.11,000.
• The rate of houses occupied by individuals in the market town area is similar to the district and county averages. There is a slightly higher rate of single occupancy in the urban areas.
• Unemployment levels in Ilfracombe are over twice those in the remaining parishes and above the district, county and national averages.
• Claim rates for Income Support and Job Seekers Allowance are significantly lower in the rural areas. Claim rates for both benefits are similar to the county but below the national average.
• Incapacity Benefit and Severe Disablement Allowance claim rates in Ilfracombe are generally much higher than the national and county averages; claim rates in the rural area are lower.
• The percentage of households occupied by lone pensioners in the market town area is similar to the national average.
• The proportion of young offenders is significantly lower in the rural areas compared to Ilfracombe parish where the rate is consistently above the district and county comparisons.
• Select here for more statistics about Ilfracombe and surrounding area. (3.42MB - pdf help)