A riveting past
With a history stretching back to the 900s, there‘s plenty of interesting things to see and do in Barnstaple. The best way to gain an understanding of the town's intriguing past is to take part in one of the guided heritage trails given by local experts. These set out every Thursday from the Barnstaple Heritage Centre at 11:00. The Centre itself is also a sight to behold, housed in a stunning Grade I listed building by the quayside.
After taking on board a host of fascinating facts from one of the lovely tour guides, test your knowledge at the Museum of Barnstaple & North Devon. Or relax with a book in the cosy environs of Barnstaple Library, which houses a range of important local and historical documents in its extensive archives.
Market town
A major trading centre since Saxon times, Barnstaple still has plenty to offer the discerning shopaholic. The Pannier Market is a must-visit, with stalls selling all manner of different goodies six days a week. Make sure you check out which day tickles your fancy, but Tuesdays and Wednesdays are always pretty special. Tuesday has general bric-a-brac and delicious locally sourced fruit and veg on offer, while Wednesday sees antique dealers and booksellers descend on the market's famous vaulted hall.
Across the road from the market is Barnstaple's famous Butchers' Row. Like the market, this street is an architectural gem, with ornate wrought iron awnings over each shop. As its name suggests, the ten shops here were once filled with butchers selling the finest cuts of meat. Two remain to this day, while the rest are occupied by greengrocers, fishmongers, florists, delicatessens and bakers. Pick up some wonderful local produce and whip up something delicious for dinner.
Queen's Theatre
After your meal, take your seat at the Queen's Theatre, a lovely old venue in the centre of town whose history goes back all the way to 1435. The theatre's prestige is still evident in the quality of the names it attracts. Shows from famous stand-up comedians to world-class ballet companies regularly light up the stage.
If you want a more contemporary watch, Barnstaple's multi-screen independent cinema is just around the corner, showing blockbusters old and new.
Surf city, UK
One of Barnstaple's main attractions is, of course, its excellent location near the famous North Devon beaches. Westward Ho!, Saunton Sands, Croyde and Woolacombe are all nearby and wonderful for a bathe. The beaches are also surfers' paradises, with long stretches of sand and clean tidal breaks. Surfboard and wetsuit hire is available at all of these locations.
If you're new to the waves, take lessons with some of the friendly experts at one of the area's many surf schools. The North Devon Surf School at Westward Ho! and the Nick Thorn Surf School at Woolacombe are fantastic, and both offer lessons for people of all different levels of expertise.
The North Devon beaches are also perfect for all kinds of sand- and sea-related fun. The kids can spend hours running around the dunes while you enjoy the soft sand and refreshing water.
Barnstaple hotels are perfectly located for every kind of holidaymaker. Whether you're after fascinating history, exciting contemporary culture or stunning natural beauty, Barnstaple is the place for you.
