Car & Van Hire - Barnstaple

Visiting Barnstaple and the Area

As the largest town in North Devon, Barnstaple is a great place for shopping, with the 150-year-old Pannier Market a top tourist attraction, and a great place to stock up on fresh local produce for picnics. You’ll find lots of independent shops in the narrow streets and quaint alleyways of the town as well as a modern shopping centre with all the high street brands. 

Activities Near Barnstable

The nearest beaches are Saunton Sands, Croyde and Woolacombe, stretching for miles of golden sands. This is one of the prime destinations in the country for surfing, with surf schools dotted all along the coast so, whether you're an old hand or a beginner, you can enjoy the waves. There is no shortage of golf courses around here either, with a choice of links and parkland courses for golfing enthusiasts. 

Places to see Near Barnstable

There are lots of lovely places to visit in the area, within a short drive of Barnstaple, all the more reason to rent a car and give yourself the freedom to get around without having to rely on public transport. 

The pretty seaside town of Ilfracombe is less than 30 minutes away and is a lovely spot for lunch or an ice cream on the harbour. There's also the museum with its quirky collection of  items. Historic Bideford is even closer and its Pannier Market and quaint narrow streets are well worth a visit.

Things to do with Kids Near Barnstaple

Families will have no problem keeping the kids entertained with glorious beaches all around. Even when the weather is bad there's lots to do in the area. 

Head to the Air Extreme Trampoline Park and let them burn off some energy, or for younger children, a visit to the soft play centre at Junglaroo will keep them happy for hours. There's also the aquarium at Ilfracombe which specialises in local sea life and will entertain and educate people of all ages.