North Devon & Exmoor

North Devon events in 2004

Event listings first published on northdevon.com in the early 2000s, kept here as a record of the area's festivals, fairs and community events. Dates and contact details are historic.

  1. 07 Jan

    Woolacombe Theatre

    July-September 2004

    Woolacoombe

  2. 30 Apr

    Beer Festival

    30 April to 3 May 2004

    Ilfracombe

  3. 30 Apr

    Walking & Cycling Fesitval

    30 April to 3 May 2004 The walking and cycling festival offers a full programme of speciality guided walks and self-guided cycle routes centred on the popular seaside resort of Ilfracombe. Although there has been a walking festival over the weekend for the past three years, this is the first time its being extended to include cycling. It will provide an opportunity to discover the region's varied scenery with trails covering the dramatic coastline and tranquil countryside as well as the wild expanses of Exmoor National Park, which will be celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2004. The Walking and Cycling Festival runs in parallel with celebrations of local food and drink including the annual Ilfracombe Beer Festival. The programme will be posted on www.walkcyclenorthdevon.co.uk or call 01271 883131 or Ilfracombe Tourist Information on 01271 863001

    Ilfracombe

  4. 01 May

    Evening Entertainment on the Seafront

    May to August 2004

    Ilfracombe

  5. 02 May

    South Molton Rotary Exmoor Charity Walk

    Details to be updated shortly.

    South Molton

  6. 02 May

    Sunday Afternoon Music on the Bandstand

    May to August 2004

    Ilfracombe

  7. 04 May

    Westward Ho! Potwalloping Festival 2004

    29 May to 31 May 2004 The fabulous Pot Walloping Festival dates back to the 1800's, where local people ventured down to the beach to throw back pe...

    Westward Ho

  8. 06 May

    Great Torrington May Fair

    Great Torrington

  9. 13 May

    Strawberry Fayre

    Details to be updated shortly.

  10. 28 May

    Hunting of the Earl of Rone

    Late May 2004 Details to be updated shortly.

  11. 29 May

    Westward Ho! Potwalloping Festival 2004

    29 May to 31 May 2004 The fabulous Pot Walloping Festival dates back to the 1800's, where local people ventured down to the beach to throw back pebbles that had fallen from the ridge during the winter storms. This is still performed today, but has developed into a larger event with, displays, local crafts, stalls and entertainment. The Westward Ho! Potwalloping Festival 3-day event has a full entertainment programme each day and live music each night in the putting green marquee with the Atlantic Ocean as a spectacular backdrop. There will be the usual North Devon Mini Register, North Devon Sports and Classic Car Club and North Devon Harley Riders processions that are always popular with the public. The Arts and Crafts stalls and displays will be in the marquee for a full 3 days this year as the North Devon Cancer Care Fashion Show will take place in the Baptist Church Hall. With the children's Teddy Bears Picnic and Bideford Lions Club Charity Auction alongside some new events this year, including 6-a-side football and an inter-pub challenge, Westward Ho! Potwalloping Festival has something for everyone so mark off the dates in your diary now. Tel: 01237 477676 www.potwalloping.org

    Westward Ho

  12. 30 May

    Ceramic Arts Festival

    30 May to 30 June 2004. Starting at the end of May and running through June is the Ceramic Arts Festival, a contemporary art initiative celebrating Bideford's very strong association with the clay and pottery industry. It embraces a series of events which explore ceramics in all their forms ranging from exhibitions, artists' residencies, workshops and talks to youth projects and a public firing of artworks in the Kiln in the Park at Victoria Park, Bideford. Full details will be on www.torridge.gov.uk or call 01237 471455.

    Bideford

  13. 31 May

    Braunton Carnival

    Details to be updated shortly.

    Braunton

  14. 01 Jun

    Woolacombe Sandcastle Competition

    June/July 2004

    Woolacoombe

  15. 03 Jun

    Appledore Visual Arts Festival

    3 to 6 June 2004 At the beginning of June the Appledore Visual Arts Festival has a spectacular array of internationally known artists exhibiting, talking about their work, leading workshops, short-term arts projects and installations. Visitors can talk to artists, and participate in creative projects too. The estuary provides a stunning location, and the delightful village develops the festival tradition to decorate their doorknockers with artworks made from found materials. For further information call 01409 281193 or visit www.appledorearts.org

    Appledore

  16. 04 Jun

    North Devon Festival

    4 to 27 June 2004 Over 24 days in June, the sixth North Devon Festival celebrates the richness and diversity of the area's people and places with over 150 main events taking place in 40 different towns and villages in the area. Firmly established as one of the leading festivals in the UK, it encompasses several strands which include live arts entertainment, visual arts, lifestyle and sport, history and the natural environment. Call 01271 324242 for details or visit www.northdevonfestival.org

    Barnstaple

  17. 05 Jun

    Ilfracombe Victorian Celebration

    5 to 13 June 2004

    Ilfracombe

  18. 05 Jun

    South Molton Vintage Rally

    5-6 June 2004 Details to be updated shortly.

    South Molton

  19. 05 Jun

    Ilfracombe Golf Club Open Week

    5 to 11 June 2004

    Ilfracombe

  20. 05 Jun

    Queen’s Theatre Event - Opera

    Barnstaple

  21. 06 Jun

    Classic Car Run

    North Devon Hospice Event incorporating Classic Car Run

    Barnstaple

  22. 09 Jun

    Classic Car Run

    Family Fun for all incorporating the North Devon Classic Car Run. This day of family entertainment will attract thousands to see the exciting displ...

    Bideford

  23. 13 Jun

    Ruby Run - Half marathon from Holsworhty to Hatherleigh

    Half marathon from Holsworhty to Hatherleigh Entry price to be confirmed For further details, please call 01409 253312

    Holsworthy

  24. 14 Jun

    RHS Garden Rosemoor Rose Festival

    14 to 27 June 2004 The Royal Horticultural Society's garden at Rosemoor is situated in the delightful setting of the Torridge Valley, nestled within extensive surrounding woodlands. After 14 years of development all of the projects envisaged in the original garden master plan for Rosemoor are now complete. Many of the new garden areas are reaching maturity and these, together with Lady Anne's unique and delightful garden, ensure that a visit to Rosemoor will provide something for all tastes and interests, at every season of the year Visit our renowned Rose Gardens at the peak of their flowering , for inspiration and relaxation . The success of the Rose Gardens at Rosemoor , where over 2,000 roses in 200 varieties grow , has disproved the myth that roses do not thrive in the West Country. RHS Rosemoor Rosemoor Great Torrington EX38 8PH Tel: 01805 624067 www.rhs.org.uk

    Great Torrington

  25. 16 Jun

    Fairy Day at Arlington Court

    Come dressed as a fairy or elf, try the magical treasure hunt and play fairy games in the grounds of the neoclassical house owned by the Chichester family. Description Price Adult £5.80 Child £2.90 Family £14.50 Arlington nr Barnstaple Devon EX31 4LP Tel: 01271 850296

    Barnstaple

  26. 18 Jun

    Gold Coast Oceanfest

    18 to 20 June 2004 One of the biggest events within the North Devon Festival is the GoldCoast OceanFest, a three-day extravaganza held on the sandy beaches at Saunton, Woolacombe and Croyde when international athletes try their skills at surfing, skateboarding, parakiting and other extreme beach and water activities competing for substantial prizes. The event is a FREE sports & music festival that showcases Surfing, Longboarding, Beach Volleyball, Beach Football, Board & Surf ski Paddle Racing, Australian Surf Boats, KiteSurfing, BMX trials, Mountain boarding, Skateboarding, Live Music and a Trade village incorporating licensed bars & restaurants, demos, adrenalin zones, exhibitions, sampling, simulators and corporate hospitality. The GoldCoast Oceanfest enjoys the support of international brands through sponsorship whilst the local government, development and tourism agencies all actively promote the event. One of the major aims of the GoldCoast Oceanfest is to grow the oceansports industry, create awareness for ocean related causes and encourage corporate participation in these endeavours. Oceanfest actively supports the efforts of the National Trust, RNLI, Surfers Against Sewage and the Whales & Dolphins Conservation Society all of whom will continue their involvement in the 2004 event. For details telephone 01271 817000 www.goldcoastoceanfest.co.uk

    Woolacoombe

  27. 19 Jun

    South Molton Olde English Fayre

    19 to 20 June 2004 19th is Fayre Day at the Pannier Market with stalls from 10.00am. The Fayre Queen is crowned and there is a floral dance. There are events all day on 19th and 20th and a civic parade on 20th. Tel: 01769 574180

    South Molton

  28. 19 Jun

    Great Torrington Music & Arts Festival

    19-27 June 2004

    Great Torrington

  29. 26 Jun

    Barnstaple Heritage Day

    Castle Green - A selection of re-enactment groups, covering different periods in history Barnstaple Heritage Centre - Historical based events will take place outside on the Millennium Mosaic area. The Guildhall - The 1853 Barnstaple political corruption trial will be re-enacted with short excerpts taking place all day. St Anne's Chapel - Open to visitors Around the town - Colourful costumed characters will parade around the town all day. For further information, please contact Barnstaple Heritage Centre on 01271 373 003

    Barnstaple

  30. 26 Jun

    The Two Moors Festival (Garden Party)

    26 to 27 June 2004 All proceeds go to The Two Moors Way festival. Music in the gallery performed by winners of BBC Young Musicians and finalists of The Two Moors Festival Young Musicians Platform. Nicholas Dimbleby will be exhibiting a selection of sculptures. Tickets: Adults £5 Children £2 Simonsbath Sandyway South Molton Devon EX36 3LU Tel: 01769 574122

    South Molton

  31. 27 Jun

    Vintage Traction Engine and Vintage Car Rally

    A popular event where you can indulge in the nostalgia of the motor car. Admission prices to be confirmed Tel: 01409 254719

    Holsworthy

  32. 01 Jul

    Woolacombe Theatre

    July-September 2004

    Woolacoombe

  33. 01 Jul

    Great Torrington Music & Arts Festival

    A diverse mixture of arts, crafts, music, drama and a host of other entertainments presented by local artists and performers.

    Great Torrington

  34. 03 Jul

    Holsworthy St Peter's Fair Week

    3-11 July 2004

    Holsworthy

  35. 30 Jul

    Holsworthy Agricultural Show

    Enjoy the traditional atmosphere of one of the main showpieces for the local farming community. Tel: 01288 355335

    Holsworthy

  36. 05 Aug

    LightWalk

    Three evenings a week from 5th August – 3rd October (August: Thurs/Fri/Sat and Sept/Oct: Fri/Sat/Sun) The LIGHTQUEST team have unveiled exciting plans for this year’s event. After the huge successes of Lightquest 2002 and Dreamwalk 2003 the team have created an exciting new format for LIGHTWALK The event is to be staged in a beautiful valley and woodland location in the heart of North Devon with panoramic views to the coast and moors. LIGHTWALK will be presented every weekend throughout August and September. Previous events have attracted in excess of 20,000 walkers. This year’s event will enable up to 600 walkers a night to participate in this unique and inspiring experience. The event will comprise a 1.5 hour evening walk along a trail of 10,000 lanterns made up from over 30 moles of cable and several hundred architectural lights and decorative fittings, totalling 15,000 lightbulbs, used to transform the environment Participants will witness over 30 visual tableaux and discovery points along the trail. The discovery points will present the landscape in many different guises and present radical landscape design alongside stunning visual arts. Lighting animations and enchanting sound effects combined with performers and music complete the experience and all add up to a truly inspiring and uplifting experience. The true magic of this event can not be described in words or pictures. In a world where fire, light and colour abound the only way to truly understand and appreciate the passion, energy and life that this event creates is to put on your walking boots and come hither to Devon. Be part of LIGHTWALK and see the light! Ticket information: £12.50 adult, £5.50 child, under 3’s free The events are limited to three evenings a week from 5th August – 3rd October (August: Thurs/Fri/Sat and Sept/Oct: Fri/Sat/Sun) For further information please contact: Indiwell Productions 01271 830026 Mobile 07768 390172 www.lightwalk.co.uk www.lightquest.co.uk www.indiwell.co.uk

    Barnstaple

  37. 07 Aug

    Combe Martin Carnival

    7 days of fun starting from 7th August 2004. Grand Procession on 14th August 2004. Wheel barrow race,(fancy dress and all) BBQ on the beach, Music on the beach, Grand Carnival procession, And lots lots more....

    Combe Martin

  38. 15 Aug

    South Molton Sheep Fair

    Mid August Details to be updated shortly.

    South Molton

  39. 15 Aug

    Carnival Week

    Mid August 2004 Details to be updated shortly.

  40. 26 Aug

    Ilfracombe Carnival 2004

    Includes a procession of floats, street entertainers and music. Further details available from Ilfracombe Tourist Information on 01271 863001

    Ilfracombe

  41. 31 Aug

    Bird Man Competition

    Ilfracombe

  42. 04 Sep

    RHS Rosemoor September Festival 2004

    4 to 26 September 2004 This is one of the best times of the year to visit Rosemoor, as the first tinges of leafy autumnal hues emerge through misty mornings against a backdrop of dark woods clinging to the steep sides of the Torridge Valley. RHS Rosemoor Rosemoor Torrington Devon Tel: 01805 624067 website: www.rhs.org.uk

    Great Torrington

  43. 05 Sep

    Bird Man Competition

    Sunday 5th September 2004 - 2.00pm onwards - Ilfracombe Pier Following on from last year's large scale event, The 2004 Birdman Competition is going to be one of the South-West's must-see events this summer! To encourage more entrants to fly off Ilfracombe's glorious Pier all in the aid of local charity, we are offering a Grand Prize of £5,000 this year with another £500 worth of other cash prizes to be one as well!! If you want to enter, call the BIRDMAN HOTLINE on 07766 080072 or enter online at www.southwestbirdman.co.uk The Pier will be crammed full of stalls, attractions, games and of course our live stage featuring the best up & coming bands from all over the country!! So even if you don't fancy the danger of attempting to fly, come along and show your support for charity!! Event Details : Following on from last year's large scale event, The 2004 Birdman Competition is going to be one of the South-West's must-see events this summer! To encourage more entrants to fly off Ilfracombe's glorious Pier all in the aid of local charity, we are offering a Grand Prize of £5,000 this year with another £500 worth of other cash prizes to be one as well!! If you want to enter, call the BIRDMAN HOTLINE on 07766 080072 or enter online at www.southwestbirdman.co.uk The Pier will be crammed full of stalls, attractions, games and of course our live stage featuring the best up & coming bands from all over the country!! So even if you don't fancy the danger of attempting to fly, come along and show your support for charity!!

    Ilfracombe

  44. 07 Sep

    Tea Dance

    The Landmark Pavilion 2.30-4.30pm

    Ilfracombe

  45. 11 Sep

    Jesus Surf Classic

    11-12 September 2004

    Croyde

  46. 18 Sep

    Barnstaple Carnival and Fair 2004

    15 to 18 September 2004 This historic carnival and fair takes over the town from 15-18th September. Carnival Procession is on 18th September. ...

    Barnstaple

  47. 25 Sep

    South Molton Carnival

    Details to be updated shortly.

    South Molton

  48. 07 Oct

    Power Boat & Thundercat Racing

    10 & 11 July 2004

    Ilfracombe

  49. 10 Oct

    An Evening with Roy Goodwin

    Ilfracombes celebrated Town Crier will be talking about past town Criers and about his own experiences. A lively evening promised. Ilfracombe Museum 7.30pm For more information, please contact the Ilfracombe Tourist Information Centre on 01271 863001

    Ilfracombe

  50. 10 Oct

    Farmers Market

    The Lantern Centre, High Street, Ilfracombe 10-12.30pm

    Ilfracombe

  51. 14 Oct

    Seven Deadly Sins for Seven Deadly Sinners

    An anthology evening of wicked comedy, heavenly drama, devilishly tall tails, enchanting poetry and seductive stories. The Landmark Theatre, Ilfracombe 8.15pm For more information, please contact the Ilfracombe Tourist Information Centre on 01271 863001

    Ilfracombe

  52. 14 Oct

    Kate Rushby

    Kate is an international star who has produced six albums and performing folk music for people that don't like folk. Queens Theatre Barnstaple 7.45pm For more information, please contact the Barnstaple Tourist Information Centre on 01271 375000

    Barnstaple

  53. 15 Oct

    Vonda Shepard

    Don't miss this opportunity to hear for yourself the poignant harmonies of this bluesy soulful performer. Queens Theatre Barnstaple 7.45pm For more information, please contact the Barnstaple Tourist Information Centre on 01271 375000

    Barnstaple

  54. 16 Oct

    Carriage Driving Day

    A chance to take the reins and learn the art of Carriage Driving. Arlington Court, Nr Barnstaple, 11.00am - 4.30pm For more information, please contact the Barnstaple Tourist Information Centre on 01271 375000

    Barnstaple

  55. 16 Oct

    Mahler Song & Dance Man

    Song & Dance Man tells the tragic love story of Gustav Mahler, often regarded as a composer obsessed with death. For more information, please contact the Barnstaple Tourist Information Centre on 01271 375000

    Barnstaple

  56. 18 Oct

    Kids Club at Ruda Holiday Park

    There are two kids clubs at Ruda Holiday Park, which your kids can enjoy, while you enjoy the surf at croyde. Maxi Million Club is for children aged 10 years and under and its free. Awol is for children aged 11 and over. So bring your kids here and enjoy! The Kids Club is in Club Ruda, simply turn into the Ruda Site.

    Croyde

  57. 19 Oct

    The Tempest

    performed by Royal Bury ST Edmunds productions, this new production of Shakespears evocative and intriguing last play combines music, magic, poetry and prose, reality and illusion to create a world where anything can happen and notjing is quite as it seems. Queens Theatre Barnstaple 19th October 7.45pm 20th October 2.30pm & 7.45pm

    Barnstaple

  58. 22 Oct

    Salty Tales

    The Seafarers & maritime History of Braunton, by Tony Evans. Braunton Countryside Centre 7.45pm For more information, please contact the Braunton Tourist Information Centre on 01271 816 947

    Braunton

  59. 22 Oct

    An Audience with Tony Benn

    Expect an enlightening evening of words from tis irrepressible speaker. The Landmark Theatre 8.00pm For more information, please contact the Ilfracombe Tourist Information Centre on 01271 863001

    Ilfracombe

  60. 22 Oct

    Charlie Landsborough

    An evenign of Folk,County Ballards and Blues. The Queens Theatre Barnstaple 7.45pm

    Barnstaple

  61. 23 Oct

    Book Sale Weekend

    23 & 24 October 2004 A sale of second hand books, donations of second hand books beforehand will be welcome. Heddon Valley Shop - Exmoor 11am

    Lynmouth

  62. 23 Oct

    Solid Gold

    Be prepared to Rock 'n' Roll the night away to some of the biggest hits of the 60's and 70's, brought to you by the original stars. Queens Theatre Barnstaple 6.00pm & 9.00pm

    Barnstaple

  63. 24 Oct

    English Chamber Orchestra

    Included in the evening are Mendelssohn - Piano Concert no5 in E flat Emperor Mozart - Symphony no 41 in C Jupiter Queens Theatre Barnstaple 7.30pm

    Barnstaple

  64. 02 Nov

    Hearnshaw & Barrett - jazz from Bach to the Beatles

    Tonight's programme includes arrangements of music by Lennon & McCartney, some improvistions on JS Bach and some of Charlie's original compositions. Winkleigh Village Hall - Tuesday 2 Nov 2004 7.30pm BAR Tickets: £7/£6 (reduction for advance booking) Tel: 01837 83209

    Eggesford

  65. 05 Nov

    Ira Bernstein & Riley Baugus - Appalachian Roots

    Appalachian Roots is a dynamic mix of traditional dance, song and instrumental music from the southern Appalachian region, with a few international twists thrown in. An old-time music and dance variety show chock full of humour and skill. The George Hotel, South Molton Friday 5 November 8.30pm Tickets: £6/£5(conc) Tel: 01805 603 201 or info@beaford-arts.co.uk

    South Molton

  66. 14 Nov

    Farmers Market

    The Lantern Centre, High Street, Ilfracombe 10-12.30pm

    Ilfracombe

  67. 15 Nov

    Holsworthy Winter Carnival

    For further information please contact Holsworthy Visitor Centre (01409) 254185.

    Holsworthy

  68. 17 Nov

    Calamity Jane

    Presented by Barnstapel Musical Comedy Society. The Queens Theatre, Barnstaple Saturday Matinee 2.30pm Sunday Matinee 3.00pm Box Office 0127...

    Barnstaple

  69. 19 Nov

    Topiary and Dried Flower Decorations

    Three one-day courses starting on the 19 November at Arlington Court. Learn how to make wonderful displays this Christmas. £20 per person, inc. lunch. Booking essential on 01271 850296

    Barnstaple

  70. 20 Nov

    Holsworthy Winter Carnival

    Holsworthy

  71. 20 Nov

    Barnstaple Christmas Lights Festival

    Late November 2004

    Barnstaple

  72. 23 Nov

    Tea Dance

    The Landmark Pavilion 2.30pm - 4.30pm For more information, please contact the Ilfracombe Tourist Information Centre on 01271 863001

    Ilfracombe

  73. 27 Nov

    Country Christmas Craft Fair at Arlington Court

    A two day event on the 27 and 28 November, providing all you need for a special Christmas. From ingredients to unusual presents, Arlington Court will give you great Christmas ideas. Oreinteering trail. Tea-room and shop open. Family fun day out. Adults - £1 to enjoy the estate and craft fair, children free. Call 01271 850296 for details

    Barnstaple

  74. 06 Dec

    Barnstaple Live Street Theatre Music & Dance

    12 to 13 June 2004

    Barnstaple

  75. 12 Dec

    Farmers Market

    The Lantern Centre High Street Ilfracombe 10.0am - 12.30pm For further details please contact the Ilfracombe Tourist Information Centre on 012...

    Ilfracombe

  76. 13 Dec

    Story Time for the under 5's

    Christmas Stories at the library. The Candar Ilfracombe 2.00pm - 2.30pm

    Ilfracombe

  77. 14 Dec

    Tea Dance

    The Landmark Pavilion Ilfracombe 2.30pm - 4.30pm For further details please contact the Ilfracombe Tourist Information Centre on 01271 863001

    Ilfracombe

  78. 15 Dec

    Great Torrington Big Sing

    Mid December 2004 Details to be updated shortly.

    Great Torrington

  79. 16 Dec

    Cinderella

    With spectacular sets and effects, a hilarious new script and laughs galore. A truly memorable pantomime to brighten your Christmas. The Queens Theatre Barnstaple 7.00pm Showing throughout December. For more information and schedule, please contact the Queens Theatre on 01271 324242

    Barnstaple

  80. 16 Dec

    Victorian Christmas Musical Evening

    A selection of seasonal songs, sung by the choir and soloists. Emmanuel Church Wilder Road Ilfracombe 8.00pm For further details please contact the Ilfracombe Tourist Information Centre on 01271 863001

    Ilfracombe

  81. 17 Dec

    Ballroom, Latin and Sequence Dancing

    Braunton Parish Hall 7.45pm For further details please contact the Braunton Tourist Information Centre on 01271 816947

    Braunton

  82. 17 Dec

    50 Years of Music

    Enjoy an evening of music from the 50's through to the 90's. Where you will be dancing in the aisles and singing into the night. The Landmark Theatre Ilfracombe 8.00pm 01271 324242

    Ilfracombe

  83. 18 Dec

    Father Christmas at Arlington Court

    On the 18 and 19 December, you can find Father Christmas at Arlington Court by following an exciting trail. The house will be specially opened and decorated for a Victorian Christmas with festive stories in the Long Room. Shop and tea-room open. £4 per child, per trail. Adults free entry. Call 01271 850296 for details

    Barnstaple

  84. 19 Dec

    Christmas Farmers Market

    The Lantern Centre High Street Ilfracombe 10.00am-1.0.pm For further details please contact the Ilfracombe Tourist Information Centre on 01271 8...

    Ilfracombe

  85. 19 Dec

    Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols

    Ilfracombe Parish Chuch 6.30pm For further details please contact the Ilfracombe Tourist Information Centre on 01271 863001

    Ilfracombe

  86. 20 Dec

    Story Time for the under 5's

    Christmas Stories at the library. The Candar Ilfracombe 2.00pm-2.30pm

    Ilfracombe

  87. 31 Dec

    Bideford New Years Eve Celebrations

    Every New Year"s Eve, Bideford draws 8,000 revellers — most in fancy dress — to its restaurants, nightclubs and road show on the historic quay. Gather on the ancient long bridge where you can also listen to the town clock chiming mid-night.

    Bideford