International Women’s Day 2022

Meet Kate…

My name is Kate and I’m very lucky to be working at Byron and its amazing location.

I pinch myself every day being in this beautiful part of North Devon with its all-round year appeal. Woolacombe has a stunning award-winning beach which can be as still as a mill pond or alive with amazing breakers and a great place to blow away the cobwebs.

I have always wanted to be by the sea with its ever-changing beauty.

There is so much to offer in the area whether you love the sea, like walking or a nature enthusiast.

I often visit the RHS gardens at Rosemoor which are a delight at any time of year offering a different backdrop throughout the seasons and perfect if you are a keen floral photographer.  Being a member of The National Trust I have visited many magnificent stately homes both large and small steeped in history and an insight into bygone days.  

There are many wonderful walks in the area with breath taking scenery. The walk to Heddons Mouth and also the coast walks from Ilfracombe to Lee known as the Fuschia Valley are two of my favourite ones, both stunning for the natural beauty of the coastline and also the rich vegetation.

A beautiful place to live and visit.

Meet Charlotte…

Hello, my name is Charlotte, I joined the Byron team in July. I have been living in Devon for the last few years working locally at a four-star hotel as reception manager and administrator.  

I have worked in a range of hospitality sectors from wedding co-coordinator to chef; all of which have given me a great insight into the inner workings of the industry. I have really enjoyed being able to do so many diverse roles over the years and taking on new challenges. It’s a great feeling that you get when you have helped someone plan and make their stay so special. 

I am looking forward to being back in Woolacombe after spending many years visiting with family and friends. I always enjoy walking on the beach with my dog first thing in the morning when all you can hear is the ocean waves. Living in this area is wonderful as there is so much to explore, even in the winter there are so many beautiful places to go for a walk along the coast. My favourite walk in the area is out to Baggy Point as the views looking back along Putsborourgh to Woolacombe are picturesque no matter the weather or season. I enjoy going to the National Trusts Arlington Court where they have the carriage collection, it’s only a short distance from Woolacombe and a great day out.  

Meet Emily…

If you’re looking for a tip from a local on the best place for a surf, hike, trail run, wild swim, SUP or pretty much anything outdoorsy… then Emily is the right person to ask! 

After returning to the West Country eight years ago from the French Alps, Emily is a fan of pretty much the majority of sports or outdoorsy activities available in Woolacombe and the surrounds. She says living on the North Devon coast feels a bit like being in an adults’ adventure playground!  

Emily is always happy to give an insider track on top locations and helpful local know-how. Here she shares with us some of her favourite spots in and around Woolacombe: “One of my favourite spots nearby is Putsborough for surfing. When the conditions are right the surf can be amazing as it’s slightly sheltered and sometimes a little quieter. Watch out though, the sunsets may blow you away!

“If you visit in summer you must try the curry on the beach at Barricane, it’s amazing and boasts such a nice summer vibe. Remember to take your own tipple, you are on holiday after all!

“Walk to Morte point and enjoy stunning views and a landscape like no other. When the conditions are right you can see all the way across Woolacombe, to Lundy Island, and across to Bullpoint lighthouse. If you’re super lucky you’ll see seals, porpoises, varied seabirds and local grazing livestock. It’s a special place to me as it’s where I got engaged.

“For those looking to visit a little further afield, another one of my favourite spots would be Lynmouth, linked to Lynton by the famous water powered funicular railway. Lynmouth, being the lower beachside town, has cobbled streets and a whole lot of ‘oldly worldly’ charm with some beautiful artisan shops and pubs. The drive to Lynmouth alone takes you through the parts of Exmoor that touch the sea and really are breathtaking. There are several stunning but rather steep walks around this area – I would recommend Watersmeet – so if you do fancy it, remember to pack good walking shoes!”

Meet Inger…

I grew up in Woolacombe, my ancestors have lived here for several generations and most of the family are still here.  Woolacombe has always been the place that one wants to return to, whether as a local or a visitor.

I moved to Australia at 21 and lived in the land of dreams for many years, but moved back almost 4 years ago to be closer to my family as well as for my children to embrace the Devon life.

This has been a wonderful place for the children to grow and experience the wholesome benefits of village life surrounded by family.

I joined Byron quite soon after arriving back in the UK and have loved watching the business grow from year to year, Byron has that something extra special to offer both owners and guests.

Woolacombe has a special place in my heart and has grown in diversity over the years with its offering of restaurants and pubs as well as fantastic coastal walks and of course our award winning beach, my favourite walk is Morte Point with its breath taking views and the seals is always a grateful sight. We spend many of our days at Barricane during the holidays, surfing, swimming and coasteering, the children are always busy, as well enjoying the curry or pizza on the beach at times or a BBQ on those long summer evenings making life long memories with family and friends.