
Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon
Discover North Devon's rich history, nature, and art at this free, community-focused museum.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch special exhibits

Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon
Best Time
Catch special exhibits

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover North Devon's rich history, nature, and art at this free, community-focused museum.
"A decent local museum with some interesting exhibits about the history of Barnstaple and North Devon."

🎯 Free Admission, Donate!
Entry is free, but donations are crucial for maintenance. Give what you can! :heart:
🕰️ Check Winter Hours
Hours vary seasonally. Always check the museum's website before your visit. :calendar:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

North Devon's Rich History
Permanent Collections
Explore archaeology, natural history, and social history spanning centuries of North Devon life.

Local Flora & Fauna
Nature Exhibits
Fascinating taxidermy and displays showcasing the region's diverse wildlife.

Artistic Expressions
Temporary Exhibition Space
Discover rotating exhibitions, often featuring talented local artists and cultural themes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Big Discoveries
Seasonal Exhibitions & Local Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission, Donate!
Entry is free, but donations are crucial for maintenance. Give what you can! :heart:
🕰️ Check Winter Hours
Hours vary seasonally. Always check the museum's website before your visit. :calendar:
🖼️ Art Lovers Rejoice
Look out for temporary exhibitions, often showcasing local artists. :art:
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Interactive displays and taxidermy sections captivate younger visitors. :child:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission, Donate!
Entry is free, but donations are crucial for maintenance. Give what you can! :heart:
🕰️ Check Winter Hours
Hours vary seasonally. Always check the museum's website before your visit. :calendar:
🖼️ Art Lovers Rejoice
Look out for temporary exhibitions, often showcasing local artists. :art:
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Interactive displays and taxidermy sections captivate younger visitors. :child:
☕ Victorian Tea Room
Enjoy coffee and cake in the charming Victorian-style tea room after your visit. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon for its free admission and diverse, well-presented collections covering local history, nature, and art. The charming Victorian tea room is a highlight, and the welcoming staff enhance the experience. While not a vast museum, it offers a thoroughly enjoyable and informative visit for all ages.
"Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon features a wide variety of collections covering all the aspects of the old good days. It’s always lovely to trip down memory lane and be grateful what our predecessors have done for us. Having finished the tour, zipping a cup of coffee and enjoy a slice of Victorian sponge cake in its Victorian style tea room is definitely a plus. Despite the museum is totally free, I would strongly recommend a donation to help its maintenance."
Tak Ho Fong
"A decent local museum with some interesting exhibits about the history of Barnstaple and North Devon. It's well-organized and informative, but not particularly large. It's worth a one-time visit if you're in the area, but not a must-see attraction. The staff are really nice and welcoming, which adds to the experience. Free entry is a bonus!"
Anamika Jayakumar
"An excellent local museum with a permanent exhibition of around 80,000 objects in collections and displays about the people and the area of North Devon, including archaeology, natural, and social history. Additional temporary exhibitions also run throughout the year.
Both adults and children will find this museum interesting, so well worth a visit.
It's free and is open Monday to Saturday inclusive 10:00 am - 5:00 pm in summer (Different hours in winter)"
Andrew Dixon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located on The Square in Barnstaple. It's easily accessible by public transport, with local bus services stopping nearby. If driving, there are several car parks in Barnstaple town centre, though they may have charges.
While there isn't dedicated museum parking, several public car parks are available in Barnstaple town centre. These are typically a short walk from the museum.
Barnstaple railway station is a walkable distance from the museum. Trains connect Barnstaple to other major towns and cities, making it accessible for day trips.
The museum is generally accessible, with efforts made to accommodate visitors with mobility needs. It's advisable to contact them directly for specific accessibility details.
Barnstaple offers a charming town centre with shops and the historic Pannier Market. The museum's central location makes it easy to combine with exploring the town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon offers free admission to all visitors. However, donations are gratefully accepted to help with the upkeep of the collections and the museum.
The museum is typically open Monday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm during the summer. Winter hours may differ, so it's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
As admission is free, advance booking is not required. You can usually just walk in. For special events or exhibitions, it's worth checking if pre-booking is recommended.
Since the museum is free, there are no discounts on admission. However, the free entry itself is a significant benefit for visitors.
The museum is generally closed on Sundays. Its usual operating days are Monday through Saturday.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a diverse range of exhibits covering archaeology, natural history, social history, local flora and fauna, and often temporary art exhibitions.
Yes, the museum is very family-friendly. Children often enjoy the taxidermy section and interactive displays.
Most visitors spend 1-3 hours exploring the collections, depending on their interest level and whether they visit temporary exhibitions.
While not always advertised, sometimes volunteers or staff may offer insights. It's best to inquire upon arrival about any informal tours or talks.
This exhibit features taxidermy and displays of animals and plants native to North Devon, offering a glimpse into the region's natural heritage.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has a charming Victorian-style tea room where you can enjoy coffee, tea, and cake, including a popular Victorian sponge cake.
While there's a tea room for purchases, it's generally best to consume your own food and drinks outside the museum or in designated areas, if available.
Barnstaple town centre has numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants offering various dining options. Bull & Bear is a highly recommended spot nearby.
The tea room offers light refreshments, including coffee, tea, and cakes. The Victorian sponge cake is a particular highlight.
The tea room typically operates during museum hours, but it's wise to confirm its specific opening times, especially towards closing.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is permitted. However, flash photography might be restricted to protect delicate exhibits. Always check for signage.
The taxidermy displays, historical artifacts, and any temporary art exhibitions often make for great photo opportunities. The building's exterior and the surrounding square are also picturesque.
Drone photography is not permitted inside the museum. For external shots, be mindful of local regulations and privacy.
For research purposes, it's best to contact the museum administration in advance to seek permission and understand any specific guidelines.
Weekday afternoons often offer softer lighting and fewer crowds, which can be ideal for photography. The exterior looks lovely in natural daylight.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for interactive elements or displays that engage children. The tea room offers a nice break with kid-friendly treats. It's a great way to introduce children to local history and nature in an accessible and enjoyable setting.
💰 Budget Travelers
While entry is free, consider making a donation to support the museum's upkeep. You can also save money by packing your own snacks and enjoying them outside, though the on-site tea room offers affordable refreshments if you fancy a treat.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
The museum itself can be inspiring, with its historical artifacts and displays of local heritage. The building's architecture and the surrounding square also offer aesthetic appeal.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring North Devon's Heritage
One of the most engaging aspects for many visitors is the local flora and fauna exhibit, which often features impressive taxidermy displays. This provides a tangible connection to the natural environment that has shaped the region. The museum also highlights local manufacturing and artistic traditions, offering a comprehensive narrative of North Devon's past and present.
Beyond the permanent displays, the museum actively engages with the community through temporary exhibitions. These often showcase the work of local artists, such as the North Devon Arts Summer Exhibition, or explore specific historical themes relevant to the area. This dynamic approach ensures there's always something new to discover, making it a valuable resource for both residents and tourists interested in North Devon's heritage.
A Hub for Local Art and Culture
Furthermore, the museum plays a role in broader cultural initiatives. It has hosted events like the launch of the North Devon Culture Strategy, demonstrating its commitment to fostering a flourishing cultural landscape. Collaborations, such as the one with stuartmorristextiles for printed tea towels featuring local dialect, highlight how the museum integrates contemporary creativity with heritage.
Volunteers like Bea, who study fine art, find the museum an inspiring place to contribute, surrounded by objects of cultural significance. This involvement underscores the museum's role not just as a place to observe, but as a space for learning, engagement, and the celebration of local creativity.
The Charming Victorian Tea Room
The tea room is particularly known for its Victorian sponge cake, a popular choice that complements the nostalgic ambiance. Alongside cakes, they serve coffee and tea, making it an ideal spot for a mid-visit refreshment or a pleasant conclusion to your museum tour.
This tea room adds a significant layer of enjoyment to the visit, transforming a historical exploration into a more leisurely and sensory experience. It’s a small but memorable detail that enhances the overall appeal of the Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon.


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