Ilfracombe North Devon, A very Disappointing visit !

We visited Ilfracombe in North Devon , and were shocked by what we saw.
Having spent lots of memorable holidays in the area years ago. Ilfracombe today is a fraction of it's former self. The once thriving town centre now has a run down and uncared for feel about it, with boarded up shops and restaurants. And Homeless doorway sleepers. A far cry from the Ilfracombe we once knew.
The harbour area has faired better and still retains it's charm but with so many closed down Hotels, it will need a lot of effort to rejuvenate this popular seaside resort.
Ilfracombe, what happened !!
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Пікірлер: 141

  • @WanderingwithWatto
    @WanderingwithWatto2 ай бұрын

    If you liked this video watch our Discovering Devon playlist here: kzread.info/head/PLh1CjUjoyA8JiZsHUs-VnyKvWcZZqEset You can support the channel by joining our Patreon here: patreon.com/WanderingwithWatto Buying us a coffee here ☕ www.buymeacoffee.com/Wattowanders Or contribute directly here: paypal.me/WanderingwithWatto?country.x=GB&locale.x=en_GB We really appreciate it.👍🚶‍♂🚶‍♀

  • @PostcardAndAPint

    @PostcardAndAPint

    2 ай бұрын

    Oops - pressed return too early. The bath house looks lovely. Go the Welsh digging tunnels!! Not to rub it in, but Dorset was a lot less wet! Just learn that you're in Devon not Cornwall!!! Sorry! The sea front is nice - not sure about verity! Yes, we can see the elephant!! Nice rainbow!! Think this might have been when we were in Stonehenge! Ice cream in a bus stop. Classic! Cheers guys. Loved it 🍻

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    @@PostcardAndAPint 🤣🤣. We did have some awful weather when we were down there. Added to the depressing vibe tbh. As for verity. Not sure what she has to do with a fishing village. 🤷🏻‍♂️. Thanks again guys. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @JackWhitehead-in2vc
    @JackWhitehead-in2vc2 ай бұрын

    i feel like you could have been abit fairer with how you only filmed closed shops and none of the open ones, ive just moved here, and absolutey love the place, lots of variety, and the season starts mid may according to locals, you came at the wrong time, some rough edges, but thats the same as most seaside towns after covid, theyre doing alot better than most, ilfracombe is a diamond in the rough.

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Hi Jack. Thanks for watching. And taking the time to comment. By no means do we not like Ilfracombe. In fact as I said in the video we have very happy memories of times spent there. And as I also said it retains its charm and is a very nice place. It just needs a lot of investment to rejuvenate the town as it was once an asset and undeniably now is rundown. Our seaside towns need support for sure. Thanks again for watching and I genuinely hope that it can get back to its former thriving self. Have a good weekend. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @JackWhitehead-in2vc

    @JackWhitehead-in2vc

    2 ай бұрын

    ​@WanderingwithWatto I completely agree. Hope to see you back for the season!

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    @@JackWhitehead-in2vc we will definitely return as we live the area and have visited consistently for over 30 years now. Thanks again Jack. Best wishes from us both. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @cathydyer3774

    @cathydyer3774

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you Paul and Kim. I thought your comments were spot on. We visited a few years ago in April. It was very cold on the cliff walk but the harbour was sunny and bustling.

  • @trvlnthru
    @trvlnthru2 ай бұрын

    It is always sad to return years later to a place where you have made such great memories only to find that things have changed a lot - and not in a good way. This looks like a nice coastal area. Hope it gets back on its feet. Thanks for the tour of Ilfracombe!

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    It was such a shock after so many fond memories of there when the boys were little. We just hope it picks back up, the sea front & coastal areas are beautiful. Thank you for watching.👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @MagentaOtterTravels
    @MagentaOtterTravels2 ай бұрын

    I will definitely be watching this one later! We will be on the road when the video premieres. We have been to this lovely part of the country, but have not visited Ilfracombe yet. I am excited to see what your experience was there!

  • @Adzey156
    @Adzey1562 ай бұрын

    Shame how these towns are ending up . Hopefully, something can change before it's too late. Thanks for showing us around Watto & Kim 👍

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks for watching Adzey. I think tourists will still go in the summer as the harbour is the main attraction with the tunnels beaches. But the town needs work for sure.

  • @Adzey156

    @Adzey156

    2 ай бұрын

    @@WanderingwithWatto Fingers crossed 🤞

  • @Thorkenn
    @Thorkenn2 ай бұрын

    That’s really amazing and beautiful 😍 journey 👍. A lot to see and what I love ❤️ most the Elephant shape of mountain and two rainbow 🌈. Have a wonderful weekend 👍.

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for coming along with us. Have a great weekend. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @Adzey156
    @Adzey1562 ай бұрын

    Like 3 👍

  • @PinnedonPlaces
    @PinnedonPlaces2 ай бұрын

    Mr watto and the lovely Kim. I really enjoyed this video, and the premiere. It was interesting to see the dilapidated now town centre. It certainly has it's ups and downs. Sad to see the town centre and that the pandemic just destoryed the town but the upside is how stunning Ilfracombe naturally is, those views over the harbour would make up for it. Interesting statue and a great video overall - love the way you present. Thank you both for a great video xx

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Ah thanks Alessa. We really do appreciate all your support. It was sad as we have such good memories from previous visits. Back to less depressing things next week I promise. It’s draining doing the doom m gloom thing. Have a great weekend. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @FloridaFlipFlops
    @FloridaFlipFlops2 ай бұрын

    Hello from Naples, Florida. A very interesting visit to Ilfracombe, indeed. Thanks for sharing the amazing views with us, have a great weekend 👍 💯 ❤

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you for coming along with us. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @wanderingoutyonder
    @wanderingoutyonder2 ай бұрын

    Wow - how eye opening -

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    It’s such a shame but not all bad other parts of Ilfracombe are stunning & it has some beautiful scenery. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🤣

  • @ItsArtByDonna
    @ItsArtByDonna2 ай бұрын

    Lovely video eye opening!

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you Donna. Definitely two sides to the town. I hope it improves as it is it was a very nice place for a summer visit. Have a great weekend. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @MagentaOtterTravels
    @MagentaOtterTravels2 ай бұрын

    Very interesting tour! I love the setting and the coastline... but it was disappointing to see all the boarded up shops! And yes, they definitely need a crosswalk where you were!

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks Dara. It remains a lovely spot in summer by the harbour but the town has been rundown for sure. Two sides to it. Thanks for watching. Have a great weekend. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @thebeatentrack156
    @thebeatentrack1562 ай бұрын

    Thanks for showing us around 😊

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Our pleasure. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @jameswalksinhistory3848
    @jameswalksinhistory38482 ай бұрын

    Great video-Thank you Watto

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks James. Glad you enjoyed it. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @GENerationXplorers
    @GENerationXplorers2 ай бұрын

    👍1 great thumbnail and title guys. See you then ❤

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Ah. Alway front row for you guys. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @PhilipOlsen11
    @PhilipOlsen112 ай бұрын

    Great job Watto. Enjoyed that 👍❤️

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Glad you enjoyed it Phil. Appreciate you coming along mate. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @The_Brit_Girls
    @The_Brit_Girls2 ай бұрын

    Hi Watto and Kim, it was very sad to see that the town centre of Ilfracombe has become rundown and shops have closed. Seems to be a similar story in a lot of towns around the country since Covid and the popularity of online shopping. Thank goodness the front and harbour area is still looking well cared for. Everything looks better on a sunny day though, doesn't it? The coastline is spectacular and hopefully Ilfracombe will attract lots of visitors during the summer months. Thanks for a very interesting video. Have a great week ahead 😊😊

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Totally agree. It is a shame these places are struggling. I do hope it starts getting investment and gets back to what it once was. Thanks for joining us. Have a great week. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @RetiredLovingIt
    @RetiredLovingIt2 ай бұрын

    Beautiful footage! The clouds look menacing though

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    They were. We got soaked with hail rain and sleet. Springtime in the UK seaside for you. Thanks for watching guys. Have a great weekend. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @sandpit72
    @sandpit722 ай бұрын

    Not sure who told you about the asylum accommodation as it closed a year ago and is now an fully operational hotel for holidaymakers after a refit.

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    If that’s the case then that’s great news. I can only say what I see and after speaking to a local business owner that is what I was told. I was also told things about the Bay hotel which I chose not to say on film. There is no denying the effect it has in seaside towns added to the lack of investment by councils etc. I hope Ilfracombe gets back to its best but it will need a lot of work. Thanks for watching I appreciate you commenting. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @OthmarsVlog
    @OthmarsVlog2 ай бұрын

    excellent . . . thumbs up 👍🎥💯

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you Othmar

  • @OSMOneStepMore
    @OSMOneStepMore2 ай бұрын

    Thanks for taking us to Ilfracombe in North Devon. I hope that the city administration will find a way to restore parts of the city. 💯34

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    You are always very welcome. Yes me too it is a nice place but sadly now needs a lot of investment to restore it to what it was. Thank you for watching. Enjoy your weekend. Best wishes from us both. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @glyn829
    @glyn8292 ай бұрын

    Hi guys nice film 👍 im quite surprised as we were down there last summer it was absolutely chocka did a little film on the tunnels

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    I think it will be again Glyn. The touristy parts will do well but it was the town that was shocking. And the hotels being closed is a very bad sign for a seaside resort. Shame as we do like it and have been many times before. Thanks for watching Glyn. Hope you have a good weekend. Catch you soon. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @inbetween-days
    @inbetween-days2 ай бұрын

    Hi to you both. This is a place we have never been to. The sea front looks beautiful. Shame about the rain. Love the rainbow. Pleased you have some good memories of the place. Hope you have a good weekend. Best wishes Dave and Dawn ❤️

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you Dave & Dawn, we have very fond memories of Ilfracombe and hope it can be improved. The area is stunning. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @PaulD-Australia
    @PaulD-Australia2 ай бұрын

    Thanks for sharing Watto. The theme of shops closed and boarded up seems to be a worldwide trend. Cheers Mate.

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you Paul, I’m sure it’s the same everywhere. We just hope it can get back on its feet again. I’m sure Covid & the like haven’t helped. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @morgsjoboo2247
    @morgsjoboo22472 ай бұрын

    Hi guys Hope you are both well. Such a shame to see 😢 I've not been since the 80's hopefully things will change x Looks nice down by the water. Hope you're having a good week Jo xx

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Yes we are doing great thanks. Totally agree as it is a very nice area. thanks for watching. Best wishes from us both. 👍🚶🏻‍♂️🚶🏻‍♀️

  • @wendingourway
    @wendingourway2 ай бұрын

    Such a beautiful spot down by the shore! Too bad the journey down wasn't so good...must have been so tough on everyone to close up shop. Rainbows!! Maybe that's a sign of better things to come.

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    I hope so Bruce as it is a lovely place. But will need a lot of commitment from council etc and investment to get the hotels back open. Thanks for watching my friend. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🐕

  • @ScotlandFarAndNear
    @ScotlandFarAndNear2 ай бұрын

    This town really looks grim (statue too 😜). But beaches very nice and the idea of cliff tunnels also quite cool 😊😊👍👍

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks 😀yes I agree. the statue has nothing to do with a fishing village. thanks for watching. best wishes from us both. 👍🚶🏻‍♂️🚶🏻‍♀️

  • @philduttz
    @philduttz8 күн бұрын

    Most seaside towns are struggling its great here when the sun is shining hidden beaches if your fit

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    7 күн бұрын

    Most seaside towns are not struggling. Some are for sure if they are badly run by the respective councils. I suspect you didn’t watch the whole video or you wouldn’t have said what you did. We love Ilfracombe and that is why it is disappointing to see the town centre Lodi g its way.

  • @DuffElmer
    @DuffElmer2 ай бұрын

    I went there on holiday when I was younger in the early 80s. Went back in 2010 and couldnt believe how run down it looked even back then😢

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    It was a shock but hopefully it will improve, the harbour & other areas are still stunning & im sure it will pick up as we head towards the summer. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @TheGrayLifewithJimPearl
    @TheGrayLifewithJimPearl2 ай бұрын

    your bumper music at the beginning was neat. It is so sad to see a town not doing well. Closed stores and those having a hard life. Everything is not all rosey out there. Nice double rainbow at the elephant

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks guys. Yes it is such a shame and sadly happening everywhere. I think seaside towns need all the help they can get. Thanks for watching. Best wishes from us both. 👍🏻🚶‍♀️🚶🏻‍♂️

  • @TheGrayLifewithJimPearl

    @TheGrayLifewithJimPearl

    2 ай бұрын

    @@WanderingwithWatto Watch your analytics on this one. You may have found a interesting subject. I'm here in the US and found it interesting.

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    @@TheGrayLifewithJimPearl thanks guys. Really appreciate your support. It is a trending subject. However I don’t want to be all doom n gloom. But need the watchtime 🤷🏻‍♂️

  • @robodrone5662
    @robodrone56622 ай бұрын

    Great video 😊

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you hopefully it will pick up towards the summer months, it is still a great seaside town worth a visit 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @openmindedwonderer
    @openmindedwonderer2 ай бұрын

    That is such a shame that so much of the town is boarded up. been there a few times. Very beautiful place 😊

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Yes it was Cara. Changed a lot now. Very disappointing. Thanks for watching. Hope you have a great weekend. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @FloridaFlipFlops
    @FloridaFlipFlops2 ай бұрын

    Like 50 👍 💯 ❤

  • @CarlosAlberto-ii1li
    @CarlosAlberto-ii1li2 ай бұрын

    For those who do not know but abroard in many countries and their cities lots of shops are boarded up and this stems from the 2008 crisis, this is not simply 'covid and the Russian war', l lived in a small town in Nederlands and there were around 4,000 people in 2008, today there are fewer because youngsters have left to work in other places and apart from 2 supermarkets there is only 5 shops open, the weekly market draws about 3 sellers, some wednesdays there is one only.

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you Carlos for your fab comments I’m glad to hear this isn’t just the Uk 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @gallivantinggalantes
    @gallivantinggalantes2 ай бұрын

    Hello Watto, we have visited Ilfracombe but like you we weren't overly impressed. We weren't too impressed with the statue of Verity either. Take care x Julie and Tony x

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks Guys. Yes it used to be a lot nicer but has a very rundown feel now. And the statue 🤷🏻‍♂️. What has it got to do with a fishing village ? Have a good weekend both. Catch up again soon. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @hello.kitty.lav.
    @hello.kitty.lav.25 күн бұрын

    hey i live in ilfracombe and i would just like to tell you that its so amazing in the summer and you should visit again its quite rubbish when its raining

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    25 күн бұрын

    Hey, thank you so much for your comments, yes we are definitely going back in a months time, we love it there & it always looks better when the sun is shining 👌🏻

  • @hello.kitty.lav.

    @hello.kitty.lav.

    25 күн бұрын

    @@WanderingwithWatto yeah:)

  • @LivingtheSilverLife
    @LivingtheSilverLife2 ай бұрын

    It’s a shame that the town isn’t what you remember. Hopefully, they will be able to turn things around.

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    We are hoping things will improve as we head towards the summer months as it was quite early on in the year 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @GreyGhost.
    @GreyGhost.Ай бұрын

    TOTALLY agree with you about most seaside resorts ..... incredibly depressing and vacant ..... desperate times ( unless you're a Turkish barber) Many thanks from Newquay.

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    Ай бұрын

    Thanks for taking the time to comment. It is a shame. I do hope the summer is good and the economy can have a boost. And there is never a shortage of Turkish Barbers. 🤷🏻‍♂️

  • @DavidLorenzoFlorida
    @DavidLorenzoFlorida2 ай бұрын

    *Perhaps the pandemic had its toll on the downtown area. It took me a few seconds to finally spot the elephant. Have a nice weekend 👍*

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Hi David. A lot of towns have declined sadly. Pandemic on line shopping etc. all taking its toll. Glad you found the elephant. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @ms.kayak7seas
    @ms.kayak7seas2 ай бұрын

    Hi Watto and Kim Outstanding walking tour and investigation. I am not sure what level of economy is in the UK is dealing with. I bet it started after colonial Glory era. Then pandemic is deadly that many small businesses could not come back. It is not only happening to the UK, but the global wide. Hope one day we have a solution. As I mentioned. Disney World and Universal Studio have been doing well expanding their business. Nobody pays state income taxes in FL since it is considered as a wealthy state. I am certain there is some tourist destinations in the UK doing well economically in somehow???? Wish the best for next generations. well done. Watto and Kim. Thank you for being an advocate...Now we ponder...

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much for your support. It was sad seeing it this way as we have fond memories of there. Lots of other towns resorts etc are doing really well which is good to see. However I suspect that most have a struggling underbelly that is in need of fixing. The hotels being used by illegal asylum seekers while homeless Brits are sleeping in doorways. Just isn’t right. We have a huge problem here at the moment. Anyway enough doom n gloom. Have yourselves a great weekend. And we will catch up again soon. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @ms.kayak7seas

    @ms.kayak7seas

    2 ай бұрын

    @@WanderingwithWatto oh Homeless....It is challenging when we consider both side's of regal rights. Keep coming Watto and Kim

  • @SetForAdventures
    @SetForAdventures2 ай бұрын

    Shame and sad to see Paul mind when the sun did shine it made a big difference to the feel mate Best regards to Kim All the best Simon 🤠👍

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks Simon. The weather didn’t help. But it’s gonna take more than sun to sort the town out. Investment and proper use of the hotels for a start. It is a lovely place but has lost its way for sure. Hopefully the summer season will help.

  • @OutandaboutwithAndy
    @OutandaboutwithAndy2 ай бұрын

    A sad state of affairs Watto - if people don't have money to spend on day trips or weeks away to the coast these towns are really going to suffer. Our county council has just decided to start charging for seafront parking in Seaham (to make up the shortfall into their coffers coming from central government) - we will see how this affects to tourist businesses in the town - currently it is quite buoyant but the high street struggles. We've had 14 years of austerity, cuts and recession and no end in sight.

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    We certainly need change mate but I fear the obvious one isn’t the answer as again won’t be strong enough to give us what we need. Thanks for watching as always. Enjoy your weekend. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @CowboyJojosAdventures
    @CowboyJojosAdventures2 ай бұрын

    Sad to see so much claws and boarded up some lovely architecture. Nice rugged coast line. Not sure if I like sculpture, might be difference when you see the statue in reality. Awesome 🙌 Great Rainbow 🌈 Thank you for taking us along Watto and Kim. Have a great weekend. 👍🏽🙏🏽🤠🤗

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks guys, bit of a shock to us both but I think covid & online shopping hasn’t helped. It is a beautiful area with stunning views. 👍🏻🚶‍♀️🚶🏻‍♂️

  • @cathydyer3774
    @cathydyer37742 ай бұрын

    Thank you both. I agree with you that it is looking very sad. We visited a few years ago...in April. The harbour was bustling on a sunny day but it was still very cold by the craggy cliffs.

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks for watching Cathy. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @PostcardAndAPint
    @PostcardAndAPint2 ай бұрын

    This was sad to see. I thought Ilfracombe was one of those posh Cornish destinations! It looks sad, and wet!!

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    It is a shame as we had some great hols there. It was a very wet day when we went. I guess moving it to Devon did t help. 🤣🤣. Thanks for watching. Enjoy your weekend. Hopefully a good vlogging day tomorrow. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @shaunpreston2839
    @shaunpreston28392 күн бұрын

    Ilfracombe is a likable shit hole good weatherspoons though and lots off good beachs and exmoor very close!

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 күн бұрын

    Totally agree. 👍🏻

  • @AlanMETALMAN
    @AlanMETALMAN2 ай бұрын

    never been but still, not what I was expecting or ever heard of hot seawater bathing either but that does sound fun. Hand carving through those cliffs must have took forever and could you imagine todays workforce doing that, the old fashioned way! To be honest I did like the harbour and cannot make my mind up about the statue, whether I love it or hate it! Nice to see that it is not only us getting the rain, always good to share :o). Nice way to finish on an ice cream but shame to hear that Ilfracombe has lost it's mojo but when you say what the hotels are being turned into, it is the beginning of the end! Cheers Alan

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks Alan. It was very wet for the week we were down there. It does happen down here you know. The tunnels must have taken a lot of effort for sure and no today’s wine workforce would just be in strike. Glad you enjoyed watching. Best wishes from both of us. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @yasminshikingmission
    @yasminshikingmission2 ай бұрын

    Hey watto and Kim 😊 shame that you’ve seen it change since you last visited. Sad to see them closing down places. Looks lovely by the water though 😊 beautiful double rainbow how lucky 😊

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    I’m sure covid & online shopping hasn’t helped but it is still a stunning seaside town with stunning coasts. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @stevebizzel3689
    @stevebizzel368929 күн бұрын

    It was beautiful in the 1990s. Vibrant and fill of tourists. Open top bus tours and boat trips! Pubs, cafes, restaurants and gift shops. We used to go in July or August though. No bordered up shops or people sleeping in doorways then!

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    25 күн бұрын

    I agree we have visited lots over the last 30 years and it is sad to see the town being neglected. Hopefully a productive summer season and a bit of wise investment will get it back on its feet. The harbour area remains popular but the town really does need a lift.

  • @chrisbentleywalkingandrambling
    @chrisbentleywalkingandrambling2 ай бұрын

    Cheap foreign holidays with guaranteed sun, add in online shopping and it is a recipe for disaster. Poor Blighty, I wonder if she will ever recover. Thanks for sharing.

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Chris I sincerely hope so. I love this country but hate what it has become. Everyone scared to say what is really happening and no one strong enough to tackle the issues. 🤷🏻‍♂️

  • @chrisbentleywalkingandrambling

    @chrisbentleywalkingandrambling

    2 ай бұрын

    @WanderingwithWatto sadly so. With global warming, hopefully, holidays at home will come back, but they need to be reasonable rates too. The other thing is to outlaw Amazon, but they have a monopoly, so sadly, that won't happen. Sad state of affairs.

  • @theresabigwideworld2632
    @theresabigwideworld26322 ай бұрын

    It's always horrible to see a town looking unloved, but the area down by the beach does look a lot nicer and I'm sure on a sunny day in summer it would look fantastic!

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Yes it retains its charm for sure but needs some investment to get it back on track. Thanks for watching. Best wishes from us both. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @IamaDutch-Kiwi
    @IamaDutch-Kiwi2 ай бұрын

    A song comes to mind: "And another one bites the dust". After having see similar from Nick and Jill, this once again illustrates the wide spread closures. What is the answer- the solution and who sets what steps? It can't only be the council's responsibility. We reap what we sow...Isn't that the saying? Pity that the weather sort of matched the situation. A bit of sun would have shed a glimmer of hope. Happy Weekend and cheers with the 125K watch time. 👌🙋‍♀🇳🇿🥝

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    To be honest, we were a bit shocked but other parts of Ilfracombe were fabulous and I’m sure covid & online shopping hasn’t helped. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️👍🏻

  • @nationalparksprincess3216
    @nationalparksprincess32162 ай бұрын

    It has such a charm, itvis sad that this is happening. I am not familiar with the economics over that way. So I have no way of giving an opinion.

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks for watching. We really appreciate it. Sadly it seems to be the current trend here for many reasons. Hopefully it will improve. But there needs to be big change. Thanks again have a good weekend. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @stuartscott8099
    @stuartscott80992 ай бұрын

    Nice to see the Turkish Barbers is open, but then we all know what they are a front for....

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Hmmm. We do but do the authorities. 🤷🏻‍♂️. Thanks for watching Stuart.

  • @owenmcghee1666
    @owenmcghee16662 ай бұрын

    It's happening here in Scarborough too. So sad. Love your work, even if it shows truth.

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks Owen. I think sadly a lot of places are going this way. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @GENerationXplorers
    @GENerationXplorers2 ай бұрын

    Superb Watto, so sad to see all these towns and cities being overlooked. Literally have UK homeless in the empty shop doorways and a hotel full of illegals living in luxury. The UK is bonkers at the moment.

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks Nick. It drives me mad. I love this country but it is falling apart and we are being invaded. But no one wants to stand up and admit it. Such a shame.

  • @jammyjay917
    @jammyjay917Ай бұрын

    Well we don't get much money around here unfortunately.... the shops are being killed off due to massive rental rising...the Government doesn't give our councils enough money... the best thing about Ilfracombe is the harbour, the sea and scenery...and some lovely walks around the sea...

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    Ай бұрын

    I totally agree. It is indeed a lovely area and it is a shame there isn’t more investment in the town. I hope it gets the footfall as the season progresses. The town certainly need re vamping as has a very run down feel to what we were used to seeing on many previous visits. Thanks for taking the time to comment. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @jammyjay917

    @jammyjay917

    Ай бұрын

    ​@@WanderingwithWatto 🥰🥰 what is also lovely, is a new cafe called Lime Kilm cafe and bar, overlooking the sea, opposite the statue of Verity... we have been there many times... thank you 😊

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    Ай бұрын

    @@jammyjay917 we will be sure to check it out on our next visit.

  • @AliceGoss
    @AliceGoss2 ай бұрын

    So many of our once theiving towns are now total shit holes. It's cheaper for me yo fly abroad for a few days compared to a seaside holiday in Ilfracombe.

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    Very true Alice. With lots of people staycationing though I wonder if they will only see the hood bits of these towns and or just ignore the fact they are neglected. 🤷🏻‍♂️

  • @funkyfever86
    @funkyfever862 ай бұрын

    Spot on video of ilfracombe ! My mum & Dad have been taking us there since the 60s, as I was the youngest my memories start from the early 70s. Been going back for many years and have taken my own children to try to recapture my childhood, but the last time I went there 6 years ago it wasn’t pretty, but like a lot of seaside towns it’s a shithole as much as I don’t like to say it and wish it wasn’t. Still there’s other amazing places not far away. I hope things improve for the town but I can’t see it happening anytime soon. Government should invest in our seaside towns and make them appealing for brits to holiday at home, but I guess they are too busy spending 10 mil a week on illegal asylum seekers ! Oh yes Rule Britannia the dinghy’s rule the waves.

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    It is almost criminal how these places have been left to decline and homeless people struggle while there are hotels full of illegals. It’s making this great country a laughing stick tbh. Hopefully there will be REFORM. and we can have leadership with bottle and the British people at heart. Thanks for watching. Best wishes. Watto & Kim. 👍🏻🚶🏻‍♂️🚶‍♀️

  • @chris747f
    @chris747fАй бұрын

    Doesn’t help Damien hurst owns a lot of the high street properties

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    25 күн бұрын

    Does he now ? That’s interesting to know. Fingers in many pies.

  • @atrampinthehills.841
    @atrampinthehills.8412 ай бұрын

    Not the best looking place...might give it a miss when we head down that way in May.

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    The harbour area is nice when the weather is kind and there are some nice walks around the headland. But the town 🤷🏻‍♂️. Has seen better days. Hopefully it will recover with some high spending tourists. 🤷🏻‍♂️

  • @chrisbentleywalkingandrambling
    @chrisbentleywalkingandrambling2 ай бұрын

    I'm not a fan either. It's like the Emperor's new clothes.

  • @WanderingwithWatto

    @WanderingwithWatto

    2 ай бұрын

    That is a very good analogy Chris. Totally agree.

  • @NecroMorrius
    @NecroMorriusАй бұрын

    The Tories. Brexit. You’re welcome.

  • @eltonlovell9898

    @eltonlovell9898

    28 күн бұрын

    Has Brexit made foreign holidays cheaper then? That's really why the hotels are closing.