Places to Visit in Barnstaple
Barnstaple is quaint, historic town located in North Devon England and quite possibly one of the longest surviving boroughs in the country. The town has not lost the character and charm of its historic days. Its unique atmosphere and environment make it a truly one-of-a-kind destination. Here are a few places you should be sure to visit during your next stop in Barnstaple.
Arlington Court
The beautiful Arlington Court estate houses a magnificent property on top of acres of lush gardens. The house is a living museum that offers real life views of what it would have been like to live in Barnstaple back in the day. The house features old, untouched rooms and antique items like full-scale carriages. If that’s not enough for you, check out the café for your favourite pastries and a cup of tea. There are also several trails to follow for the more adventurous or if you prefer, you can also just have a picnic on the extensive lawn area, there is bound to be something to tickle your fancy.
Broomhill Gardens
The sculpture garden at Broomhill is truly one of a kind. The property boasts some of the most magnificent pieces of art juxtaposed against the backdrop of beautiful woodlands. There are so many pieces that it’s easy to get lost wandering around the property. The garden is particularly exciting because they make a point to feature upcoming. For art aficionados, Broomhill is must-visit destination!
Barnstaple Museum
Now if you’re a true history buff you’ll love the Barnstaple Museum. Although small in size, this museum is chock full of mementoes and artefacts from Barnstaple’s history. The tour guides and curators are super helpful in educating you on the history of the local area. If you’re looking to learn more about the culture of Barnstaple and its people, this is the place to go.
Queen’s Theatre
If you are looking for family entertainment in Barnstaple, then the Queen’s Theatre is the place to be. With a variety of shows coming throughout the year with top of the line performers, the venue boasts comfortable seating with options for food and drinks at a reasonable price.
Barnstaple Heritage Centre
The heritage centre is an interactive display of the parochial life in Barnstaple in earlier periods. Each room has a brief narration that explains another part of Barnstaple’s history, its’ extremely suitable for kids as it has quizzes that pique their interest. While it is on the smaller side it offers a unique look at what like must have been like back in the historic days of Barnstaple.
Marwood Hill Gardens
These gardens present an unspoilt view of the beauty of Barnstaple and the surrounding countryside. The 18-acre garden is a peaceful oasis features lush greenery coupled with small picturesque lakes. If you’re looking for a lazy afternoon of reading or dog walking this is the place for you. These award-winning gardens are meticulously maintained and feature colourful gardens that seem like they were taken straight out of a book. The gardens also have a lunchtime café with a wide variety of menu options. When you stop by these gardens be sure to bring your camera because it is bound to be a day you will never want to forget.
Exmoor Zoo
Exmoor Zoo is a truly remarkable location for adults and children alike. The zoo features animals that you might not ordinarily see at a zoo like African wild dogs and of course the Black Beast of Exmoor! The staff at the zoo have a terrific amount of knowledge about all the eclectic collection of animals at the zoo. This is definitely a fun packed trip for anyone looking have an adventurous afternoon in Barnstaple.
Barnstaple Pannier Market
This market is one of my favourite places in Barnstaple because it gives you a sense of what the community is like here. There is a wide range of locally produced craft items as well as antiques and collectables. If you are looking for something handmade and one of a kind, this is the place to go. In addition to these items, the Barnstaple market has fresh local produce that offer a taste of authentic North Devon food. The pannier market will give you a true glimpse of the rich culture that still permeates this historic town.
If you ever find yourself in the North Devon area be sure to check out these local favourites, you’re bound to leave with unforgettable memories of your time here.
