Crow Beach

Some of the informaton on this page is from the excellent 'Beautiful Devon' website at www.beautiful-devon.co.uk

Crow point is situated in the estuary on the edge of Braunton Marshes. It is a small secluded sandy beach with spectacular views over the estuary. Crow Point is at the most southerly tip of Braunton Burrows. It is a lovely place for a wander and also popular with bird watchers and fisherman. Looking across the River Torridge and River Taw estuary you can see the enchanting village of Appledoor and in the distance Instow.

Crow Point

Many rare species of birds can be found in the area and the estuary is of major importance for its over-wintering and migratory populations of wading birds. At high tide seals can often be seen as well.

During the winter fisherman catch codling, bass, flounder, dabs and whiting. It is best to fish in the sandy area past the rocks. Low water is considered to be the best time to fish. In the summer months anglers can enjoy fine sport with the sea bass as they move into the shallow rocky gullies. Many anglers use fly fishing techniques here. The rocky outcrops are also a good place for collecting peeler crabs in summer.

Crow Point

From the Lighthouse walk down to the high tide line and at low water you will see the Pulley Bank, a mile long shoal of shingle and mussel bed marked by three buoys. Though lit at night they also each have a bell, rung by the rocking motion of the incoming tide.

A few local people still earn a living from the river, either by setting long lines, by gathering mussels, or laver bread, a local seaweed delicacy. The area of deep water beyond the Pulley Bank is known as the Codpits. In winter codling move in looking for food. After a couple of miles of brisk walking one no longer has Braunton Burrows on your left, just the wide expanse of Saunton Sands, with Baggy Point in the far distance. Sounds of crashing waves of the treacherous Bideford Bar in front of you. and one really appreciates the immensity of the landscape. Unless you have local knowledge it is then best to head back, because these sands can be soft underfoot for the unwary.

Crow Point

Beach Type: Sandy - Dogs: Dogs allowed

Contributed by: Tim Holden.