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Devon · beach metal detecting rules

Can you metal detect on North Devon beaches?

No published rule found

North Devon Council site search returns no metal detecting content. Many big beaches here are privately or National Trust owned, so check ownership.

Covers: Lynmouth/Combe Martin, Ilfracombe, Woolacombe, Croyde, Saunton to the Taw estuary
Watch out for: National Trust land, including beaches, closed to detecting except approved archaeology (official NT policy).
Source: www.northdevon.gov.uk/search?q=metal+detecting
Checked: 8 Nov 2026 · confidence: low

We couldn't find a published rule. Foreshore owned by the Crown Estate follows the Crown Estate's terms; for council-owned beaches, ask the council before you dig. We emailed them on 9 Nov 2026 and will update this page if they reply.

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