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Wales | WHITELAKE FARM - HAY BARN These pretty, adjoining barn conversions and large detached farmhouse have been tastefully renovated and retain much of their original character and charm. They offer a relaxing holiday retreat, ideal for couples, families and friends to unwind in and recharge their batteries. |
 | NAIRN Beautiful detached house providing excellent accommodation and sitting in a quiet area in North Devon. Nairn is perfectly placed to enjoy the immediate area or explore this amazing county, this house will deliver a memorable family holiday and is perfect to celebrate a special occasion. |
 | VARLEY LODGE This detached property is tucked away in the tranquil village of Prixford, sitting on a working farm. Varley Lodge is a renovated eco-friendly barn conversion offering the perfect base for a group of six to explore Devon's coast and country. |
Barnstaple is a thriving town by the River Taw, with plenty to see and do both in town and in the incredible locations on its doorstep. The historical architecture in the centre creates a traditional British holiday feeling that travellers from any region of the UK can appreciate.
In town and attractions
Barnstaple has a diverse range of shopping opportunities right in the centre. There are shops for every taste, including familiar retail chain stores and more bespoke boutiques. This is also a great place to support independently owned businesses. Discover quirky, unique gifts for family and friends in Bazaar, for example. The Pannier Market is essential for seeing all that Barnstaple’s businesses have to offer, with stores selling wares ranging from fresh flowers to crafts and art pieces. Being so popular with locals, the market allows you to fully appreciate the community feel of Barnstaple.
There are plenty of entertainment venues in town, including Scott Cinemas where films are shown in a vintage-feeling renovated 1930s cinema. A 10-minute drive to the Blackbeam Outdoor Cinema takes film-watching to another level, where the alfresco setting creates a great atmosphere. Visit the Waterside Coffee House next to the cinema for a bite to eat before the film whilst taking in a magnificent view of the river. For live entertainment, the Queen’s Theatre in town is guaranteed to be showing something suited to your taste.
You can discover Barnstaple’s rich history at the newly renovated Museum of Barnstaple & North Devon. Exhibits include geology collections from around the Devonshire coast, archaeology from the 18th Century, and items from the Royal Devon Yeomanry. The remains of the iconic Barnstaple elephant have been used in a scale model, which is definitely worth seeing. A traditional lunch can also be enjoyed at the tearoom.
A stroll through Yeo Valley Community Woodland is recommended for a serene day out in nature. This would be the perfect place for a picnic in the sun. A walk alongside the river down Queen Anne’s Walk has stunning views of the water. Relax at the gorgeous historic square when exploring this route.
Places to eat
There is an array of artisan-style cafés and bakeries, including The Cream Tea Café where you can enjoy a traditional Devonshire scone with jam and cream. Green Lanes Café has a great lunch selection for all palates, and the Old School Café House has a welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect place to enjoy a cake.
In the evening, try a classic pub meal or a restaurant-style dish at the Lush Bar & Restaurant, where the intimate feel complements their varied menu. 62 The Bank & 62 Bar serves expertly cooked and creative meals and prides itself on its vibrant atmosphere. Be sure to sample one of their many cocktails when eating here.
Fine dining is available at Seasons Brasserie, where the imaginative dishes sourced from local produce can be enjoyed either in the decorative restaurant and bar, or taken alfresco where seating overlooks Rock Park.
Claytons & The Glasshouse has a sophisticated, summery feel and is the perfect place for brunch on a summer’s day. The glass-roofed restaurant means that the sun shines over the seating area, creating a light and open feel.
Days out
A selection of magnificent beaches are easily accessible from Barnstaple. Saunton Sands is a large sandy beach and is a fantastic surfing spot for water sports enthusiasts, and similarly Putsborough Beach is perfect for a beach day. Barricane Beach is a rocky beach great for rock-pooling and exploring with kids. Travel further north to Morthoe for breath-taking views of the sea from Morte Point and discover the rustic Rocham Beach and Lee Lay Beaches. The Morthoe Museum in the village is a wonderful glimpse into the area’s history.
Nearby is Arlington Court, a National Trust 19th Century manor house with a lovely garden to wander through. Be transported back in time as you explore rooms inside set up with period-piece furniture and décor.
For a more interactive day out, a 20-minute drive south-east is Quince Honey Farm. Both adults and children will enjoy guided tours of the honey farms and seeing how honey is processed. Witness bees in action at the bee exhibition, guaranteeing this to be a unique outing.
Village life can be experienced at Appledore and Instow, which are both nestled on the confluence of rivers Taw and Torridge. Appledore is a charming shipbuilding village where a pub lunch with a view overlooking the river can be enjoyed at The Beaver Inn. Instow has a beautiful beach, and along the railway line visitors should see the Instow Signal Box, an iconic historical landmark. A boat trip between these two villages adds that extra element of fun to a daytrip to this area.
Falmouth is an idyllic town on the South Coast of Cornwall. Home to many amazing eateries, beaches, attractions and independent shops, there is plenty to do in the area. Thanks to it’s deep harbour there are often huge ships just off the coast, as well as a range of smaller vessels, giving it a European feel.