Top reasons to visit Barnstaple
- Scenic Outdoor Adventures: Barnstaple offers stunning beaches and picturesque bays, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore nature.
- Charming City Centre: The vibrant town centre invites leisurely strolls, showcasing historic buildings and local shops.
- Cultural Exploration: Visitors can delve into local history at the Museum of Barnstaple, enriching their understanding of the area.
- Relaxing Harbour Views: Unwind by the lovely harbour, enjoying fresh air and beautiful surroundings.
- Diverse Accommodations: A variety of lodgings, from family-friendly hotels to rustic lodges, cater to all types of travellers.
Find great hotels in Barnstaple
Discover a charming selection of accommodations in Barnstaple, where a variety of lodgings await to enhance your stay. From family-friendly hotels to pet-friendly guesthouses, youโll find the perfect base for your adventure. Whether you opt for a rustic lodge or an agritourism property, Barnstaple offers a delightful mix of comfort and convenience, ensuring a memorable experience in this picturesque part of England.
- The Cedars Inn by Greene King Inns: Nestled in the heart of Barnstaple, The Cedars Inn by Greene King Inns is a delightful 3-star inn that offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere. This pet-friendly accommodation is ideal for travellers seeking a blend of comfort and convenience, featuring amenities that cater to both leisure and business needs. With a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, the inn allows dogs on-site, ensuring that furry companions are well-catered for. Guests appreciate the thoughtful touches, such as food and water bowls for pets, making it a great choice for those who wish to travel with their beloved animals.
- The Royal & Fortescue: A charming 3-star hotel, The Royal & Fortescue provides an elegant setting for business travellers visiting Barnstaple. With a commendable guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, this hotel combines classic style with modern amenities. Located in the town centre, it offers easy access to local attractions and business districts alike. Guests often highlight the attentive service and comfortable accommodations, making it a reliable choice for those on a work-related trip who also wish to explore the rich history of the area.
- The Imperial Hotel: Renowned for its superb service and facilities, The Imperial Hotel is a luxurious 4-star property situated in Barnstaple. Boasting a stellar guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, this hotel is the perfect sanctuary for business travellers seeking a touch of elegance. The Imperial offers a range of amenities designed for comfort and productivity, ensuring a restful stay. Guests frequently commend the hotel's sophisticated atmosphere and exceptional dining options, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate finer things while travelling.
Where to stay in and around Barnstaple
Barnstaple offers a delightful blend of scenic outdoor adventures and a friendly atmosphere, making it a perfect getaway. Explore the charming city centre, unwind by the pretty harbour, and revel in the fresh air of the surrounding countryside. Nearby, you can discover idyllic wedding venues and family-friendly excursions that cater to all ages. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Barnstaple is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
- Bideford: Nestled approximately 13km from Barnstaple, Bideford is a charming town that offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities and stunning scenery. Known for its picturesque waterfront along the River Torridge, Bideford attracts visitors year-round, with peak seasons in April and the summer months from July to August. Adventurous travellers can explore hiking trails, enjoy the recreational areas, or take a ride on the historic funicular. Close to Bideford, youโll find beautiful beaches, a national park, and nature reserves, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
- Landkey: Just a stone's throw from Barnstaple, Landkey is a quaint village that perfectly embodies the scenic beauty of the Devon countryside. This charming locale experiences moderate seasonal visitor numbers, peaking in the summer months from July to September. Outdoor enthusiasts will revel in the recreational areas and campgrounds, while families can enjoy the local amusement park. With its proximity to national parks, nature reserves, and stunning beaches, Landkey is a delightful spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy leisurely outdoor pursuits.
- Yelland: A picturesque village located near Barnstaple, Yelland is a hidden gem that offers a serene atmosphere for visitors. Like its neighbours, Yelland sees moderate seasonal travel, especially during the lively summer months from July to September. This village is perfect for outdoor adventures, featuring recreational areas and a golf resort for those looking to unwind. Close by, visitors can explore national parks, nature reserves, and beautiful beaches, making Yelland an ideal base for discovering the natural wonders of North Devon.
Things to do in Barnstaple
Shopping
In Barnstaple, you'll find the High Street bustling with charming shops offering gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby Barnstaple Shopping Centre for a variety of retail options, or head to the North Devon Market for unique local crafts and produce.
Recreation
Explore the tranquil surroundings of the Barnstaple Wellness Centre, where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and therapies. For outdoor enthusiasts, the scenic Tarka Trail offers picturesque walking and cycling paths, allowing you to connect with nature while enjoying the fresh Devonshire air.
Adventure
The Tarka Trail offers stunning views and scenic routes for cycling and walking enthusiasts, winding through picturesque countryside and along the River Taw. For thrill-seekers, North Devon Wake Park provides an exhilarating experience with wakeboarding and cable sports in a beautiful setting.
Nightlife
Experience Barnstaple's vibrant nightlife at The Queenโs Theatre for a live performance or enjoy a drink at The Olive Branch, known for its cosy atmosphere. For a lively pub experience, visit The Exeter Inn, where the local crowd gathers for great conversation and entertainment.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Barnstaple
To save money on your trip to Barnstaple, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January to February and November. Book your hotel about a month in advance or explore last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia, particularly on Tuesdays for the best rates. Use Expedia's search tools to filter by budget and look for eco-certified hotels for sustainable options. Additionally, bundling your hotel with flights and activities can lead to significant savings. Keep an eye out for special offers indicated by a green banner for the best deals available.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Barnstaple are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Barnstaple is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Barnstaple is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Barnstaple is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you wish to stay in. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Barnstaple with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Barnstaple
Barnstaple is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering stunning beaches, picturesque bays, and historic buildings. Visitors can explore the vibrant town centre and delve into local history at the Museum of Barnstaple. With its blend of culture, scenic beauty, and adventure opportunities, Barnstaple promises an enriching experience for all types of travellers.
- Arlington Court: Discover the charm of this historic house, set amidst beautiful gardens and woodlands. Explore the fascinating collection of carriages and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the scenic grounds, immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the area.
- Heddon's Mouth Beach: Experience the tranquil beauty of Heddon's Mouth Beach, where dramatic cliffs meet the sea. Ideal for a peaceful retreat, this secluded spot invites visitors to unwind and enjoy the stunning coastal views, making it a must-visit for beach lovers.
- Croyde Bay Beach: Just 14km from Barnstaple, Croyde Bay Beach offers breathtaking scenery and excellent surf conditions. This vibrant spot is perfect for outdoor activities, whether you fancy a swim, sunbathing, or simply taking in the natural beauty of the coastline.
Best time to go to Barnstaple
The best time to visit Barnstaple can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Barnstaple falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Barnstaple falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Barnstaple
Reaching Barnstaple, England, is convenient via several major airports. Bristol Airport (BRS) is 100km away, with nearby hotels such as the 5-star Rising Sun Inn, 3km from the airport, and the Bristol Grand Hotel, 11km away. Cardiff Airport (CWL), situated 61km from Barnstaple, offers luxury stays like the voco St David's Cardiff, 14km from the terminal. Bournemouth Airport (BOH) is the furthest at 159km, with excellent options including Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa, 11km away, providing airport shuttle services. Each airport is easily accessible from these hotels, ensuring a comfortable start to your visit.