From Elizabethan days until today, Clovelly Village has been in private ownership, which has helped preserve its original atmosphere. The main traffic-free street, known as ‘up-a- along’ and ‘down-a-long’, tumbles its cobbled way down to the tiny harbour, which is protected by an ancient stone breakwater. It is a descent through flower-strewn cottages broken only by little passageways and winding lanes that lead off to offer the prospect of more picturesque treasures. The New Inn, which is 400 years old, is halfway down the street, and another, the Red Lion, is right on the quayside. Both Inns have long histories and an atmosphere rarely found in the modern world. In addition you’ll find the Visitor Centre, a range of gift shops, a cafe and an audio-visual theatre in which visitors are treated to a history of the village. Just below is the Stable Yard with a pottery and silk workshop. There are beautiful coastal and woodland walks. Access is restricted to pedestrians only via the Visitor Centre with a Land Rover taxi service for those unable to walk.