Parish in North Devon, Devon, England
| Coordinates: | 51.079, -4.053 |
|---|---|
| OS grid ref: | SS 56 33 |
| Population: | 31,616 |
| Dialling code: | 01271 |
Barnstaple sits on the estuary of the River Taw in North Devon, Devon, England, and has the sort of hilly, riverside setting that makes it a natural gateway both to the dramatic Exmoor hills and the North Devon coast. The town is threaded by historic streets and the long bridge crossing the estuary, and is linked into the region by the scenic Tarka Trail and rail and road connections towards Exeter, which help explain its role as the principal service centre for the surrounding rural area.
Historically a medieval market and trading centre, Barnstaple still centres on its markets and compact shopping streets while also supporting light industry, tourism and public services. Points of local interest include a surviving castle mound and the longstanding pannier market; culturally it hosts markets, small festivals and a lively local arts and music scene, reflecting a mix of long-standing families, commuters and second-home owners that gives the town a varied social character.
EX31 1QN, EX32 8PU, EX32 8QD, EX31 1RX, EX32 9HE, EX32 7SB, EX32 8HQ, EX31 1RJ, EX31 1DX … See all