Barricane Beach Cafe

Barricane Beach is one of those places that takes your breath away the first time you see it: a sheltered, shell-strewn cove tucked between rocky headlands, a short walk along the esplanade from Woolacombe’s main beach. And at this little gem of a cove, you will find one of the most unexpectedly wonderful food experiences in North Devon.

The Barricane Beach Cafe has become something of a legend among those in the know, serving flavourful Sri Lankan street food right on the beach. Think aromatic curries, freshly made roti, and bold, spiced flavours that feel thrillingly different from your usual seaside fare. It is cash only and opens seasonally, so checking ahead is always a good idea, but when it is open, it is an absolute must.

Dogs are welcome, the setting is extraordinary, and the whole experience has the quality of a happy discovery, the kind of thing you tell friends about when you get home and they look at you slightly enviously. Eating here, with the sound of waves on the rocks and the smell of the sea in the air, is genuinely unforgettable.

After your meal, explore the rockpools or simply sit and let the cove work its quiet magic on you. The walk from Woolacombe village takes no more than fifteen minutes, making Barricane a brilliant addition to any day along the coast.

The cafe draws its regulars from across the area and beyond, which tells you everything you need to know about how good it is. There is something about eating by the sea, with the spray in the air and the sound of the waves just metres away, that makes even a simple bowl of curry taste extraordinary. This is one of those places you come back to year after year.

From Byron’s apartments, the beach itself is four minutes away and Barricane is an easy extension of any coastal walk. Do not miss it.