top of page

Welcome to Ilfracombe Coast u3a

A friendly community for retired and semi‑retired people in North Devon. We help you meet new people, learn new skills, and enjoy a wide range of social activities across Ilfracombe, Woolacombe, Mortehoe, Lee Bay, Berrynarbor, Combe Martin and beyond.

What is Ilfracombe Coast u3a?

Ilfracombe Coast u3a is part of the nationwide University of the Third Age movement — a network of local groups offering learning, friendship, and fun for people no longer in full‑time work. We’re not a university in the traditional sense. There are no exams, no pressure, and no prior experience needed. Just friendly people sharing what they know.

What can you do with us?

We offer a wide range of interest groups, social events, and outdoor activities. Whether you want to try something new, rediscover an old hobby, or simply meet people, there’s something for everyone.

Popular activities include:

You can explore all groups from the navigation menu or the Interest Groups page. Our detailed monthly programme can be seen in the latest Newsletter on this website.

How do Interest Groups work?

Interest Groups are run by members, for members. They are friendly, informal sessions where people share skills, knowledge, and enthusiasm.

Key things to know:

  • Some groups have limited numbers and may run waiting lists

  • Some groups meet in members’ homes; others use local venues

  • A small fee may apply if a venue needs to be hired

  • You can try a group once as a visitor before joining

To visit a group, check the latest Newsletter for dates and locations, then email info@ilfracombecoastu3a.co.uk so the Convener can confirm availability. A member or a team of members act as Convener to organise each group’s activity.

When can I meet people informally?

Our monthly Coffee Morning is the perfect way to get to know us.

  • Where: Pip and Jim’s Community Centre, Ilfracombe

  • When: 4th Friday of the month at 10.15am (except August & December)

  • Cost: £3 for tea/coffee, cake, and a speaker

  • Guests: Very welcome

We also hold Special Lunches four times a year — New Year, Spring, Autumn, and Christmas.

Why join u3a in retirement?

Retirement can be a big change. Many people find themselves with more time but fewer opportunities to connect. Ilfracombe Coast u3a offers a positive alternative: friendship, purpose, and new experiences.

As one of our members, Julie Grasso, beautifully expresses in her poem, retirement can be full of energy, creativity, and community when you get involved.

Retirement 

​

Some like to just sit in a comfy chair,
Many are lonely & think nobody cares.
They ponder, they wander.
From room to room,
Thinking of their past,
Succumbing to the gloom.
Some are still in couples
But have nothing to say.
Resenting their presence,
Getting in each other's way.
Others find themselves alone
For the first time in years,
Moping, reminiscing,
Eyes full of tears.
They can reach for a puzzle
Or get engrossed in a book.
Potter in the garden,
Find something tasty to cook.
They can use it or lose it,
Waste hours with their phones.
Let their joints seize up.
Welcome stiff & aching bones.
Look frumpy, feel grumpy.do nothing but sit,
Let the body seize up,
And no longer be fit.
They may walk with a shuffle
Bad tempers may grow,
Their patience become limited
As their minds become slow.


Well, I have found a solution,
Now I am passing my prime
My retirement is arriving,
I shall have some spare time.
There is yoga & writing, painting & crafts.
Dinner dates & coffee mornings
With plenty of laughs.
Novel book clubs & history,
My family tree,
Meeting new people
Who share interests with me.
Outings in gardens
Photography.
Learning a language over a nice cup of tea.
I'm happy, I'm active,
I'm even learning to sing
There simply isn't enough hours
To fit all this in.
There are new friends to meet,
Something different each day.
Retirement looks exciting,
Now I have joined the U3A.      

©Julie Grasso, member of our u3a

page-1-boxes
Learn, Laugh and Live with us

Our Interest Groups covering North Devon

Click the text links below to find out more.

The area covered by the Ilfracombe Coast u3a

Members are welcome to join from outside this area if you like the subjects of our Interest Groups.

bottom of page