Barnstaple is a modest town in the county of Devon. This town got it's start being part of the wool trade which was greatly added by the town's port. It also was the launching place of five ships in 1588 that were sent to assist in the fight against the Spanish Armada. The towns some 20,000 members thrive as Barnstaple is the main market and shopping center for the entire North Devon area.
There are many interesting museums to visit during your stay in Barnstaple. If you are interested in the history of Barnstaple then you should head on over to the Barnstaple Heritage Center. This grade I and II listed building is located on the riverfront. The building itself is of historic significance having once been a merchant's walkway. Now known as Queen Anne's Walk, thanks to beautiful stonework and statue of the Queen herself this building is now a exhibition and heritage citer. You can view the heritage of the area and enjoy a nice little meal in their cafe located inside.
If the Barnstaple Heritage Center doesn't answer all of your questions then go over to the Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon. Here you can see the history of the entire North Devon area. The displays here cover natural and human history of North Devon including the Story of North Devon and the Regimental Collection of the Royal Devon Yeomanry.
Barnstaple is also home to a couple of interesting museums, the Arlington Carriage Museum is home to the National Trust's largest collection of horse-drawn carriages. It is truly a unique collection that should not be missed.
But what Barnstaple is most known for is being the shopping center for North Devon. While looking at museums may break up the time shopping is what most people come to do. The Butcher's Row is a history area of ten shops. The area was built in 1855 and the architecture of Bath Stone and wrought iron is a sight to behold. While there all the shops here deal in agricultural goods only two of the shops are the original shops to the row. Stepping in these will give you a little taste of history.
Probably the biggest draw to Barnstaple is the Pannier Market. This market has been in place for over 150 years. AS one of Britain's largest indoor market places you can find just about anything here. There is fresh flowers, produce, crafts, pictures, and fashion all under one roof. If you need a break during your shopping extravaganza then just sit at one of the two cafes and have a snack or a light meal while you watch the shoppers parade through the market place.
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