Tunnels Beaches

Tunnels Beaches is a seaside wedding venue in Ilfracombe on the North Devon coast. Guests reach it through tunnels hand-cut into the cliff, and come out onto a private beach, a sea-view terrace, gardens and a modern venue building. Ceremony, food and dancing all happen in one place.

Why it suits LGBTQ+ couples

From the morning of the wedding, you have private use of the venue building, terrace, garden, beach and bar, so the day belongs to you and your guests. Wedding managers run the day, and most couples who marry here plan from outside the area. You can also stay on site with your closest people, which makes the weekend feel like your own.

Ceremonies

Ceremonies take place in approved structures: a slate-roofed gazebo that looks out to sea, or inside the venue building. Ceremonies are not held on the beach itself, but the beach and garden are used for photographs straight afterwards. If the weather turns, the indoor space is a ready alternative, and the registrar has the final say on moving inside. A church ceremony followed by a reception here is also possible.

Receptions and food

The venue takes up to 150 guests for the ceremony and daytime meal, and up to 200 across the day and evening. Food centres on a gourmet barbecue made with fresh local produce, and you can choose a set package or pick individual dishes. A drinks package for each guest is part of every booking. Evening bands and DJs play indoors, and the bars are cashless.

Staying

Several buildings on site have en-suite rooms. The Bath House and Runnymede House are both Grade II listed, dating from 1836 and 1840, and the Courtyard and the Woodlands add more rooms, including a ground-floor bedroom. There is also a family suite for the couple. Other guests often book holiday homes or bed and breakfasts within walking distance.

Getting there and the area

The venue is on Bath Place, a short walk from Ilfracombe harbour and the town centre. Barnstaple, around 11 miles away, has the nearest mainline railway station. The entrance car park is for staying guests only, and local taxis are limited, so staying close by makes sense. Woolacombe, Croyde and Exmoor are all within easy reach.

Good to know

• Smaller winter weddings run from November to March, and elopement options suit very small groups.
• The ground floor is level and a lift serves all floors.
• Confetti must be biodegradable and is only allowed in a set area.