Things To Do
in Barnstaple
Barnstaple is a charming town located in North Devon, United Kingdom. It is known for its historic buildings, including the impressive Barnstaple Castle. The town is situated along the River Taw and offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
Visitors can enjoy exploring the town's local shops, markets, and cafes, as well as taking in the picturesque landscapes nearby.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll along the Taw River and take in the serene views. Grab a coffee at a local café before exploring the historic Pannier Market.
Visit the Barnstaple Museum & Art Gallery to learn about the town's history. Enjoy lunch at one of the traditional pubs nearby.
Dine at a local restaurant and savor the regional specialties. End your night with a walk along the river, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Begin your day with a visit to the nearby Exmoor National Park for a refreshing hike. Breathe in the fresh air and take in the stunning landscapes.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch in the park and relax amidst nature. Explore some of the scenic viewpoints after your meal.
Return to Barnstaple and enjoy dinner at a countryside inn. Share stories of your day's adventures over delicious local fare.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical background with many preserved buildings and sites.
- Access to beautiful countryside and coastal areas nearby.
- A friendly community with a welcoming atmosphere.
- A variety of local shops, markets, and amenities.
- Good transport links to other cities in the region.
- Limited job opportunities in some sectors.
- Public transportation options may be limited compared to larger cities.
- Some amenities may be lacking due to its smaller size.
- Can be affected by tourist influx during peak seasons.
- Weather can be unpredictable with frequent rain.
Best Activities in Barnstaple
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Scenic walking and cycling trail along the Taw and Torridge estuaries.
Beautiful beach ideal for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing.
Explore the stunning landscapes of moorland, woodland, and coastline.
Tours
Uncover the best of Barnstaple with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Barnstaple
Visit one of these nice places.
This elevated area provides panoramic views of Barnstaple and the surrounding countryside, offering great photo opportunities.
Offers stunning views of the River Taw and the picturesque landscapes along its banks, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.
The serene riverside setting and charming vistas of the old bridge and historic buildings make it an ideal location for beautiful and tranquil photographs.
Food in Barnstaple
Barnstaple Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Indulge in a quintessential Devonshire tradition with scones served with clotted cream and jam at Tyme Restaurant or Tea by the Taw.
Must-Try!
Savor this hearty North Devon dish, a comforting casserole featuring layered potatoes, onions, and leftover meats, at The Custom House or The Olive Branch.
Treat yourself to fresh Clovelly lobster, often prepared simply with butter and lemon, at The Boathouse or The Red Lion.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the Pannier Market for a variety of local produce, artisanal goods, and delectable street food from vendors like North Devon Hog Roasts and The Gourmet Guy.
Delight in a vibrant array of street food offerings, from wood-fired pizzas by Fired Up Pizza to gourmet burgers by The Meat Merchant, at the Barnstaple Street Food Market.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Barnstaple, it is important to respect people's personal space and not stand too close when talking or interacting with others.
Politeness is highly valued in Barnstaple, so it's important to use
Safety
Tipping in Barnstaple
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United Kingdom, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. Typically, a service charge may be included in the bill at restaurants. If not, a tip of 10-15% is considered appropriate.
Payment in Barnstaple, United Kingdom, is commonly done by cash, credit or debit cards, and contactless payment methods. Most businesses accept major credit and debit cards, and contactless payments are widely used for convenience.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for milder temperatures and blooming flowers. Expect occasional rain showers.
Ideal time for outdoor activities with longer daylight hours and warmer weather. Crowds may be present due to peak tourism season.
Beautiful fall foliage and fewer crowds. Some attractions may have reduced operating hours.
Possibility of rain and colder temperatures. Some businesses and attractions may have limited hours or be closed.
Barnstaple at Night
Hiking in Barnstaple
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park offering a range of hiking trails with stunning views, diverse wildlife, and dramatic landscapes.
A scenic trail that runs along the coast from Minehead to Plymouth, with sections near Barnstaple offering breathtaking coastal views.
A long-distance trail that follows the route taken by Tarka the Otter, with diverse landscapes including rivers, woods, and scenic countryside.
A local hiking spot offering moderate trails with panoramic views of Barnstaple and its surrounding areas.
A more secluded hiking area offering peaceful walks along the riverbank and through lush greenery.
Aiports
How to reach Barnstaple by plane.
Located approximately 50 miles southeast of Barnstaple, Exeter International Airport serves as a regional airport with various international flights.
Situated about 75 miles east of Barnstaple, Bristol Airport is a major international airport serving the southwest of England.
Located approximately 55 miles southwest of Barnstaple, Newquay Cornwall Airport offers several seasonal international flights.
Situated around 100 miles west of Barnstaple, Cardiff Airport provides numerous international connections.
Located approximately 170 miles southeast of Barnstaple, Gatwick is one of London's main international airports and offers a vast range of global flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Barnstaple, representing a significant portion of the population.
Includes individuals from various other European countries and backgrounds.
Includes groups such as Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and other Asian ethnicities.
Individuals identifying as having mixed heritage or parents from multiple ethnic backgrounds.
A smaller demographic group that includes individuals of African or Caribbean descent.
Includes any other ethnicities not classified in the above categories.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport with a strong following in Barnstaple, featuring local clubs and competitions.
Widely played across various age groups, with local leagues and clubs representing the community.
A traditional summer sport in Barnstaple, with several clubs and a focus on youth development.
Gaining popularity in schools and local clubs, with various opportunities for youth participation.
Enjoyed by many in Barnstaple, with several courts and local clubs offering coaching and competitions.
A popular individual sport, with local events and running clubs promoting health and fitness.
Supported by local facilities and clubs, offering lessons and competitions for all ages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Barnstaple.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and vegan options are becoming increasingly available in Barnstaple, with many establishments offering creative plant-based dishes. Standouts include vegan offerings at SQ Bar and Restaurant and the vegetarian-friendly menu at Tea by the Taw.
For those seeking gluten-free options, The Coffee Cabin and The Corn Dolly Tearooms provide a range of delightful gluten-free treats and light meals.