Opening 2026
An exciting new destination for hospitality, retail and surfing is coming to Woolacombe Beach. The Beachcomber will bring together a curated mix of local businesses, facilities and experiences, all designed to enhance your time by the sea.
Set against stunning views of the beach and surrounding countryside, and just moments from Woolacombe village, The Beachcomber will offer a welcoming and vibrant space for both visitors and the local community.
Opening soon, The Beachcomber will become a natural extension of everything that makes Woolacombe special, combining breathtaking surroundings with thoughtful design and modern amenities.
A place shaped by history
Woolacombe is a place with a rich and interesting past.
First recorded in the Domesday Book as “Wolnecoma”, meaning “Wolves Valley”, the area was once a wooded valley, likely home to the animals that gave the settlement its name. For centuries, Woolacombe remained a small agricultural settlement, centred around farms and scattered cottages.
It wasn’t until the late 19th century, when land was laid out and leased for development, that the village began to grow as a coastal destination. Over time, this rural landscape evolved into the Victorian and Edwardian seaside resort we recognise today, characterised by grand villas, hotels and sweeping coastal views.
With the arrival of visitors and improved connections, Woolacombe gradually established itself as one of the country’s most well-loved seaside resorts.
A new era for the beachfront
The original Beachcomber building welcomed visitors for several decades, but had reached the end of its life.
In its place, Parkin Estates has commissioned a new multi-purpose space, thoughtfully designed to blend into the landscape and provide much-improved facilities, public realm, and beach accessibility.
The Beachcomber will provide a vibrant hub at the heart of Woolacombe, where visitors and locals can enjoy time together by the beach.
Proud custodians of Woolacombe Beach
Woolacombe Beach has a long history of careful stewardship. For centuries, it was owned by the Chichester family before being acquired by Stanley Parkin in 1948.
Now in its third generation of family ownership, Parkin Estates is committed to maintaining the highest standards across the beach, from beach safety and cleanliness to high-quality facilities and visitor experience.
Ongoing investment in the beach ensures Woolacombe remains one of the UK’s premier coastal destinations.
Looking ahead
The Beachcomber represents the next step in our ongoing investment and care for Woolacombe Beach.
Thoughtfully blending modern design with a deep respect for its surroundings, it will provide a vibrant new destination for everyone, whether you’re here for a family holiday, a surf session, or simply to take in the stunning views.
