United Kingdom Outdoor Travel

Vacation rentals in Barnstaple and Braunton

Discover Barnstaple and Braunton in South-West UK—where your family can cycle lush trails, picnic by rivers, and explore sandy beaches together.

Barnstaple and Braunton Vacation Rentals

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Luxury rentals

Holiday village Luxury rentals
Ty Penbryn
Carmarthen, Wales
19 11 10
$7,203 per night
Holiday village Luxury rentals
ARC Padstow
Wadebridge - Padstow, South-West
19 12 12
$4,260 per night
Holiday village Luxury rentals
Buckland House
Slapton, South-West
14 7 5
$2,179 per night

Tips on renting in Barnstaple and Braunton

Getting Around

When you visit Barnstaple and Braunton in the beautiful South-West region of the United Kingdom, your family will love exploring the historic Pannier Market in Barnstaple, where local crafts and treats delight visitors of all ages. Just a short drive away, the golden sands of Saunton Sands near Braunton invite you to build sandcastles, try gentle surfing, or enjoy a picnic with sweeping sea views. Both spots offer plenty of family-friendly amenities, making them perfect for a memorable, relaxed getaway in North Devon’s welcoming countryside.

What to Pack

Packing for your family vacation to Barnstaple and Braunton in North Devon means preparing for adventure and relaxation. Bring comfortable clothes for cycling the scenic Tarka Trail, perfect for family rides and stroller walks. Pack sun hats and swimsuits for Braunton’s sandy beaches like Saunton Sands, where kids can build sandcastles and splash in gentle waves. Don’t forget picnic blankets for riverside lunches by the calm River Taw, and a light jacket for exploring Barnstaple’s lively Pannier Market or joining spring and summer festivals together.

Must-Try Activities

Barnstaple and Braunton invite your family to explore the best of North Devon’s countryside. Cycle together along the scenic Tarka Trail, a safe, flat path perfect for young riders and stroller walks. Wander the bustling Pannier Market in Barnstaple, where you’ll discover local treats and crafts. Braunton’s sandy beaches, like Saunton Sands, offer endless space for sandcastles and gentle surf. Picnic beside the calm River Taw, or enjoy a family paddleboarding session. Spring and summer bring vibrant festivals and outdoor events, making every visit memorable for all ages.

Smart Spending Tips

Explore Barnstaple and Braunton in South-West England, where each day can be a blend of riverside bike rides, sandy strolls, and family-friendly adventures. Plan for a daily budget of £180 per adult and £500 for a family of four, covering cozy accommodations and hearty breakfasts. Treat the kids to a Tarka Trail cycling tour with Devon Cycle Hire, starting at £30 per person. For dinner, savor local flavors at The Riverside Restaurant, where a family meal averages £90. Enjoy lakeside picnics, historic market visits, and easy access to the region’s lush countryside.Explore Barnstaple and Braunton in South-West England, where each day can be a blend of riverside bike rides, sandy strolls, and family-friendly adventures. Plan for a daily budget of £180 per adult and £500 for a family of four, covering cozy accommodations and hearty breakfasts. Treat the kids to a Tarka Trail cycling tour with Devon Cycle Hire, starting at £30 per person. For dinner, savor local flavors at The Riverside Restaurant, where a family meal averages £90. Enjoy lakeside picnics, historic market visits, and easy access to the region’s lush countryside.

Discover the charm of Barnstaple and Braunton, nestled in the scenic South-West region of the United Kingdom, where family adventures await at every turn. Picture your mornings wandering along Barnstaple’s historic Pannier Market, sampling fresh pastries and local treats before exploring the Tarka Trail—a gentle, family-friendly bike path winding past peaceful rivers and lush meadows. The South-West’s welcoming towns invite you to slow down and enjoy time together, whether you’re sharing a riverside picnic or browsing unique shops in Barnstaple’s vibrant centre.

Just a short drive away, Braunton welcomes you with the salty breeze of the Atlantic and the golden sands of Saunton Sands Beach. Here, children can build sandcastles, splash in gentle waves, or try surfing lessons, while parents relax with panoramic ocean views. The nearby Braunton Burrows, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offers wide open dunes and nature trails—perfect for family hikes and spotting rare wildlife. Don’t miss the chance to watch the sunset over the dunes, a magical way to end your day.

For families seeking outdoor fun, the South-West region is rich with lakeside and coastal activities. Paddle along tranquil waters at Wistlandpound Reservoir, enjoy easy walks with pushchair-friendly paths, or pack a picnic for a day of fishing and birdwatching. Whether you visit in the golden glow of summer or the crisp air of spring, Barnstaple and Braunton offer a warm, unforgettable escape for your family.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to see what Barnstaple and Braunton has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Barnstaple and Braunton in North Devon are perfect for an explorer family getaway thanks to their blend of historic charm and natural beauty. Families can wander the bustling Pannier Market in Barnstaple, cycle the scenic Tarka Trail, and discover the wildlife-rich Braunton Burrows, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. With nearby Saunton Sands offering endless beach adventures and Exmoor National Park just a short drive away, every day brings a new adventure in this vibrant corner of England.

  • To make the most of your time in Barnstaple and Braunton while avoiding crowds, start your mornings with a stroll along the Tarka Trail before it gets busy, then explore the historic Pannier Market in Barnstaple just as it opens. By midday, head to Braunton Burrows, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, for a peaceful walk through the dunes. In the afternoons, enjoy the quieter side streets for local cafés or visit the Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon for a relaxed cultural experience.

  • Absolutely, Barnstaple and Braunton offer a charming selection of unique accommodations for travelers seeking something special. In the rolling North Devon countryside, you can find beautifully restored stone cottages surrounded by wildflower meadows, as well as cozy lakeside cabins near the tranquil waters of Blakewell Fishery. Some properties even overlook the scenic Tarka Trail, providing immediate access to walking and cycling routes, while others are set on working farms, offering an authentic rural experience close to the Atlantic coast.

  • A perfect summer itinerary for families visiting Barnstaple and Braunton starts with a stroll along the scenic Tarka Trail, where you can cycle or walk through lush countryside. Spend a day at Saunton Sands, famed for its golden beach and gentle surf, ideal for children. Explore the Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon to discover local history, then enjoy a picnic at Braunton Burrows, one of the largest sand dune systems in the UK, teeming with wildlife and adventure.

  • During the summer, the vibrant beaches of Saunton Sands, Croyde Bay, and Woolacombe, all within easy reach of Barnstaple and Braunton, have lifeguards on duty, ensuring a safe environment for swimmers and surfers alike. Saunton Sands is famous for its sweeping golden shoreline and gentle waves, while Croyde Bay is a hotspot for surfing enthusiasts. Woolacombe, repeatedly recognized for its cleanliness and beauty, offers excellent facilities and stunning coastal views.

  • While Barnstaple and Braunton in North Devon are more famous for their sweeping beaches and lush countryside than for snow activities, you can still find charming countryside lodges and cabins, especially around Exmoor National Park. These accommodations offer a warm, rustic retreat with wood-burning stoves and scenic views, and if you’re lucky to visit during a rare Devon snowfall, Exmoor’s rolling hills become ideal for sledding or wintry walks, making for a magical, cozy winter escape.

  • Absolutely, Barnstaple and Braunton offer several affordable and family-friendly dining options. In Barnstaple, families enjoy the lively atmosphere at The Pannier Market Café, known for its homemade cakes and hearty breakfasts, while the nearby Boston Tea Party serves kid-friendly meals with plenty of space for strollers. In Braunton, SQ Bar and Restaurant is popular for its relaxed vibe and children’s menu, making it easy for families to enjoy a meal after exploring the Tarka Trail.

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