Chantry Cottage Bideford & Barnstaple, North Devon

• Golden beaches of Devon’s North Coast
• Shopping at Atlantic Village and Barnstaple Pannier Market
• Walking and cycling on the South West Coast Path and the Tarka Trail

Barnstaple lies at the lowest crossing point of the River Taw, 3 miles inland of the river mouth into the Bristol Channel, and is reputed to be the oldest borough in England. It continues to be an important market town for the region and has a lively centre, bustling with cafe’s, restaurants and shops – including many high street favourites as well as a wealth of independent traders. Many local products, trades and crafts can be found for sale in the glass and timber-roofed Victorian Pannier Market – voted one of the top 10 best food markets in the UK. Foodies will also love “Butchers Row” – 10 food shops in a Victorian arcade selling the finest local produce.

Bideford was once one of the busiest ports in the country, and is famous as the last place in England where women were hanged for witchcraft! Today Bideford is a quiet port town. One of its most notable landmarks is the 13th Century bridge over the River Torridge – with its 24 spans it is a testament to medieval engineering. A popular day out from Bideford if to catch the ferry across to the wildlife sanctuary that is the Island of Lundy. Bideford is also well known as being the home and inspiration for the author Charles Kingsley , a statue of the author can be found in the town and there is a museum dedicated to him in neighbouring Clovelly.