Local Towns & Markets in North Devon
The Cottage is 15 minutes’ drive from Barnstaple, Great Torrington and South Molton. Bideford 30 minutes and Exeter is 50 minutes away by car or train.
Barnstaple
Barnstaple claims to be the oldest borough in the country and is the commercial and agricultural centre of North Devon. A must visit for anyone seeking serious retail therapy. Saxons first settled in Barnstaple (Barum) over 1000 years ago; In 930 AD it was a Saxon stronghold serving as a market for the surrounding countryside. Today it has a wonderful mixture of Victorian, Medieval and Georgian architecture and is proud to be a multiple winner of Britain in Bloom.
Barnstaple general markets are held every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday at the Pannier Market, Town Centre, between 8am and 3pm.
South Molton
There is much to do in and around the town for visitors of all ages. There is a honey farm where you can watch the bees working behind glass, a chocolate factory where you can indulge yourself and an award-winning museum. A town trail, if you have an hour or two to spare, will give you lots of information on the history and architecture of South Molton.
South Molton Farmers Market held every Thursday and Saturday in the Pannier Market, between 8am and 1pm
https://www.visitdevon.co.uk/northdevon/explore/villages-and-towns/south-molton
Great Torrington
Great Torrington is known as the Cavalier Town as it played a significant role in the English Civil War (Battle of Great Torrington in 1646). It is sited on the top of an inland cliff, which provides extraordinary views of the valley and River Torridge below. It is a vibrant community and people in the town, proud of their heritage, can often be seen dressed in costume for re-enactments, festivals and celebrations.
The Nearby attractions of the RHS Garden Rosemoor and Dartington Crystal make Great Torrington a great place to visit. Torrington general market stalls are on Thursdays and Saturdays at Market Hall, Torrington, between 10.00am and 4.00pm
https://www.visitdevon.co.uk/northdevon/explore/villages-and-towns/great-torrington
Bideford
Visit the pannier market or wander through the traffic free lanes, you’ll find Bideford is the perfect place for a spot of retail therapy. There are lanes lined with quirky little shops packed with all manner of interesting items, and when it’s time for a break you can stop at one of the many pavement cafes for a coffee and a pasty. If you fancy a spot of brand name shopping head out of town to the Atlantic Village outlet for bargains galore.
Stroll along the quay and admire the expansive waterfront, or take a stroll around the fortnightly farmer’s market. Victoria Park boasts a wonderful children’s play area and free splash pool which is popular on sunny days.
A ferry operates between Bideford quay and Lundy Island, which lies about 22 miles (35 km) away in the Bristol Channel. The same ship, the MS Oldenburg, also provides evening cruises from Bideford along the River Torridge. Bideford Farmers Market held every Tuesday and Saturday at the Market Place, Town Centre, between 8am and 3pm.
https://www.visitdevon.co.uk/northdevon/explore/villages-and-towns/bideford
Exeter
Pre-dating the arrival of the Romans in AD 50, Exeter’s history is rich and long. This is reflected in its fascinating visitor attractions including its unique Underground Passages, free Red Coat Guided Tours, magnificent Cathedral, imposing Roman wall and beautiful Quayside. Exeter is also home to the award-winning Royal Albert Memorial Museum where visitors can explore the city’s 2,000-year history under one roof!
Exeter has a real sense of individuality, its varied cultural scene is embraced by proud locals, and the diverse mix of eateries means it is renowned as one of the foodie capitals of the South West. Head to the West Quarter or the cobbled Gandy Street to discover great mix of independent shops and boutiques, cafes and bars.
When it comes to culture Exeter is renowned in the south west for its independent arts scene. It is also firmly on the map as a destination for top sporting events and music. A good mix of independent venues such as the Exeter Phoenix, and large venues such as nearby Powderham Castle play host to a packed calendar of events and festivals throughout the year.
Clovelly
Step back in time and discover North Devon’s unique cobbled village: Clovelly.
This cute village could quite easily convince you that you’ve stepped through a time loop. It is completely vehicle-less and all deliveries and journeys are made either on foot across the cobbles or by donkey. A day trip or short stay here will introduce you to a gentle way of life, a unique maritime heritage and high quality sea food against the backdrop of Bideford Bay.
World-famous, Clovelly is a true gem of North Devon, offering staggering views across Bideford Bay and a more relaxed way of life. The picturesque historic houses can be found winding their way down the wooded hillside, to the traditional fishing harbour on the coast. As part of a privately owned family estate, no vehicles are allowed down the steep cobbled street, instead, goods are transported by sledge, often pulled by donkeys. As famous as the Exmoor ponies, the Clovelly donkeys are a huge draw, visitors are welcome to pose with them for selfies and they are available for children’s rides. During the winter, you’ll be able to spot them in the woods and at other times in the picturesque stable just beyond the craft workshops. The stables are well over one hundred years old and have been housing donkeys and horses for generations. No visit to Clovelly is complete with spending a bit of time getting to know the donkeys!
Speaking of the craft workshops, the villagers of Clovelly run a number of workshops and events throughout the year to enable you to really immerse yourself in the town’s historic and gentle way of life while also learning a new skill. Pot making, sewing, knitting, painting, soap making, candle making and more are all on offer to visitors.
Whether you’re planning a day trip or a short stay, there are plenty of ways for you to enjoy your time in Clovelly. There are several accommodation options in the village, many with incredible sea view. Learn more about Clovelly’s unique history with a guided tour or take in one of the many acclaimed events throughout the year; this includes the annual Herring Festival in November, designed to promote the ‘silver darlings of the sea’. Enjoy seasonal local produce at the Red Lion on the harbour or dine at the New Inn in the heart of the village, pick up a souvenir at the craft studios, or take a stroll along the coast path to Clovelly Court Gardens. Either way, this is one place not to miss.
https://www.visitdevon.co.uk/northdevon/explore/villages-and-towns/clovelly
