Barnstaple - Devon
Map ref SS5633

Accommodation in Barnstaple Self-catering Accommodation Bed and Breakfast Accommodation Hotel Accommodation Camping and Caravanning

Fremington Quay and Tarka Trail

Queen Anne's Walk

Chichester Arms in Bishops Tawton

Barnstaple is a ancient town, granted its original charter in 930 AD by King Aethelstan - the grandson of Alfred the Great. The town prospered throughout history, its port eventually becoming a major trading link to America.

Today Barnstaple has a thriving, partly pedestrianised centre, with traditional Pannier Market. Barnstaple features many fine buildings and attractive alleyways.

Historically there is the Norman mound and remnants of the original Norman castle wall to see, the ornate Queen Anne's Walk and the 13th century 'Long Bridge'.

The museum of North Devon is situated close to the bridge.

From Barnstaple, you can discover Tarka Country and the 180 mile 'Tarka Trail' walk.

Using Barnstaple as a base, you can walk or cycle along a stretch of the trail or take a trip by rail along the scenic Tarka Line.

The area around this part of North Devon has some spectacular contrasts. The wild moors of Dartmoor are not far away, and some lovely beaches around Saunton and Woolacombe.

The Tarka Trail - Cycle Route

The Tarka trail, this is a popular trail covering the North Devon area. The trail, runs across Exmoor and Dartmoor, through Bideford Barnstaple and the Coast of North Devon.

Bike Hire is available at Fremington Quay

Local Attractions

Exmoor National Park - Spectacular scenery and excellent walking. the Park covers a large part of North East Devon stretching across the county line in to Somerset.

Exmoor Steam Railway. A Narrow gauge steam railway on the edge of the Exmoor National Park. Bratton Fleming, Barnstaple . elephone: 01598 710 711

Exmoor Zoo - South Stowford, Bratton Fleming 01598 763 352

Watermouth Castle near Ilfracombe - An excellent family day out at this stunning caastle on the North devon coastline. the Castle has a small theme park.

Lynton and Lynmouth- Two delightful North Devon towns built around a harbour and cliff - connected by a famous cliff railway (Lynton at the top and Lynmouth at the bottom) . The cliff railway popular railway is powered by water and pulls visitors between the two towns.

Motorcycle Museum at Combe Martin on the north coast

Wildlife and Dinosaur Park - Combe Martin01271 882 486

North Devon Farm Park at Landkey near Barnstaple. 01271 830 255

The Tarka Centre - The Tarka Centre has lots of information about the history of the region, plus plenty of ideas for things to do. The Square Barnstaple 01271 346 747

Gardens

Marwood Hill Gardens - Marwood Hill, Barnstaple. Telephone: 01271 342 528

Arlington Court - Victorian Gardens with conservatory and ponds, Mansion, and tea rooms. Telephone: 01271 850 296

TIC

36 Boutport Street, BARNSTAPLE.
Tel: +44 1271 375000 Fax: +44 1271 374037