Places to eat in Barnstaple

The Southgate is a beautiful grill house on Boutport Street. It stands near the site of the long-lost Southgate, which was the main gateway to medieval Barnstaple. It’s open throughout the day, so visit whenever you get peckish. The steaks are sublime, the ribs are enormous and you can wash it all down with a creative menu of colourful cocktails.

If you’re craving a curry, The Ganges is a local favourite Indian restaurant on Newport Road, less than a five-minute drive from our Barnstaple hotel. It’s family-run, and they tick every box with an immaculately clean restaurant, excellent service and food that’s out of this world. Special shout out the onion bhajis; we’re not sure what they do to them but they’re beyond belief.

Alternatively, try something new and visit Everest Gurkha Chef for an authentic taste of Nepal. This tiny restaurant is right in the heart of the action on Maiden Street. It doesn’t look like much from the outside, but there’s a reason it’s always busy. The curries are fresh and oh so flavoursome. We recommend booking ahead to avoid disappointment, and bringing your own booze as they don’t have a license.

Monty’s Caribbean Kitchen is another absolute gem on Tuly Street. Put their jerk chicken and fried plantains in front of the biggest chatterbox you know and we’re confident you won’t be hearing from them until the plate is clean. We also recommend trying the authentic ackee and saltfish, it’s delicious. Expect reggae music, rum and ginger, and really good food.

When you want some fish and chips, make your way across the river to The Pelican. Don’t just take our word for it, this local institution was named the best chippy in the UK by the National Fish and Chip Awards. They only serve wild-caught or sustainably-farmed fish. As well as being more responsible, it tastes better! Portions are big, and the prices are good; pay a visit, you won’t be disappointed.

Taking you back to Tuly Street, enjoy a taste of the Orient at Fullam Restaurant. This award-winning eatery offers a mixed menu of authentic Chinese dishes, as well as all the English favourites, like sweet and sour chicken, or crispy chilli beef. It’s all tasty, so pick your usual or branch out and try something new.

Barnstaple is brimming with excellent cafes and tea rooms for you to visit during the daytime. Whether you’re looking for somewhere to sit down for a mid-shopping-spree cuppa, or you’re peckish for a spot of lunch, here are some of our top recommendations.

The Cream Tea Cafe on Church Lane is beautiful and, as the name suggests, serves the best cream tea in town. Seriously, the scones are out of this world. Alternatively, discover Driftwood Coffee Shop hidden away on Gammon Walk. It’s a wood-panelled wonderland for coffee aficionados. The fresh smoothies are also delicious on a hot day, and the breakfasts are enormous.

The Fremington Quay Cafe enjoys sublime views of the estuary and whips up a marvellous menu of home-cooked food and fresh cakes. The Boutport Cafe on Boutport Street is a lovely little independent with super-friendly staff and a great menu of fresh and healthy homemade food. Try the homity pie. Tea by the Taw is a popular spot overlooking the River Taw. It’s a particular favourite with walkers as it sits on the famous South West Coast Path. Expect tea-room decor, great outdoor seating and delicious cakes.