Barnstaple

Barnstaple is the commercial centre of the region, combining sophisticated shopping with the bustling atmosphere of markets and speciality shops. The modern Green Lanes Shopping Centre compliments the traditional Pannier and Craft Markets held since 1855 in the Pannier Market Hall. Around every corner there are pretty little alleys and courtyards, as well as the unusual Butchers Row, a line of open fronted shops selling speciality foods from meat and fish to laver and traditional clotted cream.

This attractive market town is the oldest and largest town in North Devon, nestling in the Taw valley on the other side of the estuary which the Saxons first settled in Barnstaple (Barum) over 1000 years ago.

The town centre is wheelchair friendly with the main street pedestrianised during shopping hours and with drop down kerbs enabling easy access. There is also a shopmobility centre located near the Bus Station which provides the loan of manual and powered wheelchairs.

The Long Bridge, crossing the tidal River Taw was thought to have been built in the 12th and 13th centuries and in Litchdon Street are located the Penrose Almshouses built in the early 17th century. The Merchants" Walk and the bottom of Cross Street is believed to have been built during the reign Charles II. The recommended way to explore historic Barnstaple is to follow the Heritage Trail starting at the Barnstaple Heritage Centre. Many significant buildings along the trail are each marked with commemorative plaques.