Barnstaple hotels

Yes, Barnstaple is definitely worth a visit! It’s the largest town in North Devon and offers a great mix of history, shopping, riverside walks and access to nearby beaches. The town has a charming, slightly old-fashioned feel with its historic buildings and Pannier Market, but it also has modern touches like high-street stores, cafes and cultural attractions. Whether you're into coastal or countryside, or simply soaking up a bit of Devon, Barnstaple makes a fantastic base for exploring the region. 

Not quite – Barnstaple isn’t directly on the coast, but it’s very close. It sits on the River Taw estuary, which gives it a slightly coastal feel with riverside walks and great views. And with beaches like Saunton Sands and Woolacombe just a short drive away, you’re never far from the sea.  

Barnstaple is considered a medium-sized town but is one of the bigger towns in North Devon, which means it has all the facilities you'd expect — shops, restaurants, entertainment and good transport links. It’s busy enough to keep you entertained but small enough to explore easily on foot. 

Barnstaple is known for being one of the oldest boroughs in the UK and was once a bustling market and port town. The historic Pannier Market is still a popular attraction, where you can browse stalls selling everything from local crafts to fresh produce. Barnstaple is also famous for its connection to the wool trade in the past, and for its distinctive 13-arched Long Bridge, which dates back to medieval times.