Bideford & Barnstaple

Bideford and Barnstaple are two large towns in North Devon, around 30 miles north of Exeter. They can be reached by the M5 motorway then the North Devon Link Road, or by train to the station in Barnstaple. Barnstaple is a large market town on the River Taw, 3 miles from the sea, while Bideford, once an important port, stands on the Torridge Estuary. Both towns have multi-span bridges dating back to the 13th and 14th Centuries, across their respective rivers. Both are busy towns and can lay claim to the best shopping in the area – from the high street favourites and larger supermarkets for getting the essentials, to farm shops and nationally acclaimed local markets for a taste of the region – or if you fancy a bit of retail therapy then you will love the Atlantic Village shopping outlet and might just bag a bargain!

Either Bideford or Barnstaple make an ideal base from which to explore North Devon with its fantastic beaches, beautiful countryside, fascinating history and fun packed family attractions. Just a few miles away lie the wonderful family beaches of Saunton Sands and Woolacombe; the famous surfing beach at Croyde and Westward Ho! beach – popular with novice surfers and for kite surfing. Both towns have ancient origins and a wealth of history waiting to be discovered – from maritime heritage dating back to Sir Walter Raleigh, to the last Witch trials to take place in the country. Find out more in the area’s many museums, visitor centres and National Trust properties.