The Strand and River Taw Quayside
A charming quayside spot in Barnstaple, famous for its delicious homemade cakes, hearty breakfasts, and friendly atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter, relaxed atmosphere
The Strand and River Taw Quayside
Best Time
Quieter, relaxed atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming quayside spot in Barnstaple, famous for its delicious homemade cakes, hearty breakfasts, and friendly atmosphere.
"A little gem of a place with great food, great service, and great prices. "
🎯 Book Your Table!
Essential for lunchtimes to guarantee a spot.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Vibes
Bring your furry friends along for the experience!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Homemade Cakes
Tea Shop
Indulge in a tempting array of delicious homemade cakes, a true highlight for many visitors.
Taw Breakfast
Tea Shop
Savor a top-notch breakfast experience, with both traditional and vegetarian options praised for their deliciousness.
Loose Leaf Tea & China Crockery
Tea Shop
Enjoy a delightful experience with traditional loose leaf tea served in charming china crockery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Embrace the Outdoors (and Seagulls!)
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Your Table!
Essential for lunchtimes to guarantee a spot.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Vibes
Bring your furry friends along for the experience!
🍰 Cake Heaven
Don't miss the homemade cakes, they're a must-try.
☀️ Al Fresco Dining
Plenty of outside seating is perfect for sunny days.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Your Table!
Essential for lunchtimes to guarantee a spot.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Vibes
Bring your furry friends along for the experience!
🍰 Cake Heaven
Don't miss the homemade cakes, they're a must-try.
☀️ Al Fresco Dining
Plenty of outside seating is perfect for sunny days.
🐦 Seagull Savvy
Watch out for opportunistic seagulls when dining outside!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Strand and River Taw Quayside for its delicious homemade cakes and excellent breakfast and lunch options. The friendly staff, dog-friendly atmosphere, and charming riverside setting contribute to a delightful experience. Some minor drawbacks include potential noise when busy and the presence of opportunistic seagulls, but these are generally outweighed by the positive aspects.
"Popped in for a coffee and a cake and was greeted by a lovely lady and shown to a table. Lots of different homemade cakes to choose from, I had a slice of coffee and walnut. It was delicious and the atmosphere was great! Never felt rushed and would go back tomorrow!"
Georgia Looker
"Wonderful little find here for breakfast, dog friendly and table service.
Loved the loose leaf tea and China crockery, all added to a delightful experience. We sat outside in the April sunshine with 4 dogs.
We had a Taw breakfast, top notch, as well as a veggie breakfast, delicious!
Friendly staff, would come along again."
Kim Leonard
"Best book a table if you want to go lunch time. I enjoyed some lunch with my family. Special of loaded hunters chicken chips. Staff very friendly. If full it will be noisy but that can't be helped. Too full for cake, but their cakes are very nice too!"
Kat Grant
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Strand and River Taw Quayside is located in Barnstaple. It's easily accessible by car, with local parking available nearby. Public transport options, including buses, also serve the town center, making it a convenient destination.
Yes, there are several car parks within walking distance of the quayside in Barnstaple. It's advisable to check local signage for the most up-to-date parking information and charges.
If you are in Barnstaple town center, The Strand and River Taw Quayside is easily walkable. It offers a pleasant stroll along the riverfront.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to The Strand and River Taw Quayside itself is free. However, the tea shop and cafes operate on a pay-as-you-order basis.
Opening hours can vary, but the tea shop is generally open for breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea. It's best to check their specific opening times before your visit, especially on weekends or public holidays.
There is no entry fee to enjoy the quayside area. It's a public space perfect for a stroll or relaxing by the River Taw.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the charming tea shop offering delicious food and cakes. The quayside itself is lovely for a walk, enjoying the river views, and soaking in the atmosphere of Barnstaple.
Yes, it's a dog-friendly location, with many visitors enjoying the outdoor seating with their pets.
Absolutely! There's plenty of outside seating available, making it a fantastic spot to enjoy on sunny days.
The atmosphere is generally described as friendly, welcoming, and delightful. It can get a bit noisy if full, but the overall vibe is positive and relaxed.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The tea shop serves a variety of meals, including breakfasts (like the Taw breakfast and veggie breakfast), lunches (such as tuna mayo sandwiches and loaded chips), and an impressive selection of homemade cakes.
Visitors rave about the homemade cakes, with coffee and walnut being a particular favorite. They are described as delicious and a highlight of the experience.
Yes, table service is provided, contributing to a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience.
Prices are considered good, offering great value for the quality of food and service received.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture charming shots of the River Taw, the boats, and the picturesque quayside. The tea shop's interior with its china crockery and tempting cakes also makes for lovely photos.
Yes, especially on a sunny day, the quayside offers pleasant views of the river and surrounding area, perfect for casual photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a good place for a casual lunch or a treat after exploring Barnstaple. The dog-friendly nature also means families with well-behaved pets can enjoy the experience together. The simple pleasure of a nice meal and a walk by the river can be a lovely outing for all ages.
🐶 Dog Owners
While enjoying the riverside views or a meal at the tea shop, your dog can relax by your side. Just be aware of the local seagulls who might also be interested in your food, but the welcoming atmosphere extends to four-legged visitors.
☕ Tea & Cake Enthusiasts
Expect a warm welcome and a relaxed atmosphere to savor your treats. It’s the perfect spot for an afternoon indulgence or a sweet start to your day. Don't forget to consider booking if you're planning a visit during peak meal times.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Quayside Charm
Visitors often highlight the relaxed ambiance, making it a perfect place to unwind. Whether you're a local or a tourist, the quayside provides a picturesque backdrop for a casual outing. The proximity to Barnstaple town center also makes it easily accessible for a quick visit or a longer stay.
A Culinary Gem: The Tea Shop
Beyond cakes, the tea shop serves excellent breakfasts and lunches. The Taw breakfast and veggie breakfast have received high praise, as have lunch options like tuna mayo sandwiches. The use of loose leaf tea served in china crockery adds a touch of traditional charm to the dining experience.
Service is a standout feature, with staff noted for being friendly, warm, and welcoming. Table service is provided, enhancing the relaxed feel. While it can get busy, especially at lunchtime, booking a table is recommended to ensure you can enjoy the culinary delights.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit