Barnstaple Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Town

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the picturesque region of North Devon, Barnstaple is a charming town that offers a delightful mix of history, natural beauty, and modern amenities. With its rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant local culture, Barnstaple is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic English experience.

History enthusiasts will find themselves captivated by the town's fascinating past, which dates back to Saxon times. The iconic Barnstaple Castle, a Norman fortress built in the 12th century, stands proudly as a reminder of the town's medieval roots. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, admire the ancient architecture, and soak in the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

For those seeking a taste of Barnstaple's vibrant local culture, a visit to the historic Pannier Market is an absolute must. This bustling market, which has been in operation since the 1850s, offers a plethora of stalls selling everything from fresh produce to artisan crafts. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, sample delicious local delicacies, and pick up unique souvenirs to commemorate your visit.

Nature lovers will be in awe of Barnstaple's stunning natural landscapes. The Tarka Trail, named after the famous novel by local author Henry Williamson, is a scenic walking and cycling route that winds its way through the picturesque North Devon countryside. Follow in the footsteps of the novel's protagonist as you meander along the trail, taking in breathtaking views of rolling hills, rivers, and ancient woodlands.

Barnstaple is also ideally situated for exploring the magnificent North Devon coastline. Just a short drive away, visitors can discover beautiful sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming coastal villages. Relax on the golden sands of Saunton Sands or explore the rugged beauty of Exmoor National Park, a haven for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts.

When it comes to dining, Barnstaple offers a range of culinary delights to suit every taste. From traditional English pubs serving hearty pub grub to trendy cafes and fine dining establishments, there is something to satisfy every palate. Sample fresh seafood caught off the nearby coast, indulge in traditional Devon cream teas, or savor the flavors of locally sourced produce.

Alternative names: Population: 31.6 thous.Area: 3.36 mi²Elevation: 46 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 51°4'51"N, 4°3'34"W

Location

EnglandUnited Kingdom

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Barnstaple Top Attractions

Barnstaple Attractions - What to See and Explore

Barnstaple offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon, Queen Anne's Walk, Exmoor Zoo, Barnstaple Castle. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Museum • Specialty museum • History museum
Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon
Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon is a local museum covering the history and culture of the North Devon area and which is located in The Square in Barnstaple in Devon. The displays range from prehistoric times to the Victorian era. The building and its garden railings beside the river front have been Grade II listed since 1988.
Museum • Architecture
Queen Anne's Walk
Queen Anne's Walk is a grade I listed building in the town of Barnstaple, North Devon, completed in 1713 as a meeting place for the town's merchants.
Zoo and small animal conservation centre
Exmoor Zoo
Exmoor Zoo is a conservation centre in Exmoor, North Devon, England. The zoo developed from Exmoor Bird Gardens, opened on the site of a farm in 1982. The current owners took over in 1993, and have enlarged and developed the zoo, now specialising in the conservation of smaller animals.

Town • Forts and castles
Barnstaple Castle
Barnstaple Castle stood near what is now the centre of the town of Barnstaple, Devon. When it was built, it was on the western side of the fortified town and commanded a good view of both the town and its important river crossings.
Memorial
Albert Clock
The Albert Clock is a clocktower memorial in Barnstaple in Devon to Albert, Prince Consort, the husband of Queen Victoria. It has been listed Grade II on the National Heritage List for England since 1988.
Park
Pilton House
Pilton House in the parish of Pilton, near Barnstaple, North Devon, Ex31, is an historic grade II listed Georgian mansion house built in 1746 by Robert Incledon, twice Mayor of Barnstaple, who was from nearby Braunton.
Bridge
Barnstaple Long Bridge
Barnstaple Long Bridge is a medieval bridge linking Tawstock with Barnstaple in North Devon, England, spanning the River Taw. One of the largest medieval bridges in Britain, it is a Grade I listed building and ancient monument.
Forts and castles • Park • Vernacular architecture
Castle Hill
Castle Hill in the parish of Filleigh in North Devon, is an early Neo-Palladian country house situated 3 miles north-west of South Molton and 8 mi south-east of Barnstaple.
Concerts and shows • Theater
Queen's Theatre
The Queen's Theatre is a theatre in Barnstaple, North Devon, England. It assumed its current form in 1993, but the history of theatre in Barnstaple can be traced back to at least 1435, when minstrels, players, jugglers and buffoons were an established feature of Barnstaple's annual fair.
Cemetery
Barnstaple Cemetery
Barnstaple Cemetery is the burial ground for the town of Barnstaple in Devon and is managed by North Devon Council. The cemetery opened in 1856 for the Barnstaple Burial Board and extends over an area of 13.2 acres and is bisected by a stream between the two slopes on which the cemetery is laid out.
Monastery
Barnstaple Priory
The Priory of St Mary Magdalene in Barnstaple was a priory in Devon, England. It was founded in about 1107 by Juhel de Totnes, feudal baron of Barnstaple, who had earlier founded Totnes Priory in about 1087 at the caput of his former feudal barony of Totnes, from which he had been expelled.
51°3'54"N • 4°4'41"W
North Devon Crematorium
The North Devon Crematorium is located on Old Torrington Road in Barnstaple and is the only crematorium in North Devon. It is operated by North Devon Council and has the largest crematorium chapel in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Forts and castles
Burridge Fort
Burridge Fort is an Iron Age Hill fort situated to the North East of Barnstaple in Devon, England. The fort occupies a hill top approx 150 Metres above Sea Level overlooking the Yeo and Bradiford rivers.
51°4'49"N • 4°3'35"W
St Peter's Church
St Peter's Church is the parish church of the town of Barnstaple in North Devon, England. Parts of the church date to the 13th-century with much restoration during the Victorian era by George Gilbert Scott and later by his son John Oldrid Scott which changed the atmosphere ...
51°4'40"N • 4°3'20"W
White Moose
Museum • Art gallery • Shopping
51°4'37"N • 4°3'22"W
Penrose's Almshouses
Penrose's Almshouses are 17th-century almshouses in Litchdon Street, Barnstaple, in Devon, England, built in memory of John Penrose, a merchant and Mayor of Barnstaple. They have been a Grade I listed building since 1951.
Library
Dodderidgian Library
The Dodderidgian Library was founded in 1667 in Barnstaple, North Devon, England, by Judith Dodderidge, third wife and widow of John Dodderidge of Barnstaple and Bremridge, South Molton, MP.
51°4'52"N • 4°3'21"W
Bear Street drill hall
The Bear Street drill hall is a former military installation in Barnstaple, Devon. It is a Grade II listed building.
51°5'38"N • 4°3'3"W
Manor of Raleigh
The historic manor of Raleigh, near Barnstaple and in the parish of Pilton, North Devon, was the first recorded home in the 14th century of the influential Chichester family of Devon.

Day trips

Barnstaple – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Barnstaple, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Royal Albert Memorial Museum (Exeter), Coney Beach Pleasure Park (Porthcawl), The Big Sheep (Bideford).

34 milesSE
Museum, Gothic Revival architecture, Specialty museum
Royal Albert Memorial Museum, Exeter
Nestled in the heart of Exeter, England, the Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM) is a beacon of culture and history that beckons tourists and locals alike. This renowned institution is not just a museum; it's a journey through time and space, offering a window into the...
32 milesNE
Theme park, Beach, Amusement park
Coney Beach Pleasure Park, Porthcawl
Nestled along the coast of Porthcawl, Coney Beach Pleasure Park offers a traditional seaside amusement experience that has been delighting visitors for generations. This vibrant amusement park is a staple of the local community and a must-visit destination for tourists...
9.2 miSW
Theme park, Amusement park
The Big Sheep, Bideford
Nestled in the heart of North Devon's countryside, The Big Sheep is a unique amusement park that offers a blend of fun, education, and pastoral charm. Located just outside the historic port town of Bideford, this family-friendly attraction is a must-visit for anyone...
43 milesSE
Golf
Dawlish Warren National Nature Reserve
Dawlish Warren National Nature Reserve, located in the United Kingdom, is a site of remarkable natural beauty and biodiversity. This coastal haven stretches across 506 acres, encompassing a variety of habitats including sand dunes, grasslands, ponds, and marshes, which...
34 milesSE
Gothic edifice with rooftop tours
Exeter Cathedral, Exeter
Exeter Cathedral stands as a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a historical beacon in the heart of Exeter, England. Officially known as the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter in Exeter, this magnificent structure dates back to the 12th century and serves as the seat...