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BarnstapleBarnstaple is the commercial centre of North Devon, 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. Around every corner there are pretty little alleys and courtyards, as well as the unusual Butchers Rows, 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 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. Outside the library is castle green where the Saxon's castle was built in medieval times. there is only a huge mound left where the castle once stood. The town centre is wheelchair friendly with the main street pedestrianised during shopping hours and drop down kerbs enabling easy access. 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 17th century. From Willowfield Lake cottages it is 5 miles into Barnstaple. Thre is also the Tarka Trail which runs from Braunton, through Barnstaple and out towards Bideford. A great way to cycle in and out. |
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