Nestled at the mouth of the River Taw in North Devon, Barnstaple offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure, community charm, and surprisingly affordable property options. For buyers craving a healthy, active lifestyle within reach of coastlines and moorlands, this historic market town is becoming a top choice. Working with the right Estate Agents in Barnstaple—like Northwood—can help you uncover hidden gems that perfectly match this lifestyle.
Surf Culture & Coastal Escapes
Just a stone’s throw from Barnstaple, North Devon’s beaches—including Saunton Sands, Croyde, and Woolacombe—are globally renowned surfing destinations. The region is part of a designated World Surfing Reserve, offering dependable swells and welcoming waves for beginners through pros.
For those craving early-morning surf sessions or weekend beach trips, Barnstaple is the ideal base: only a 15–25 minute drive to prime coastal spots, and close enough to a supportive surf community and thriving watersports scene.
Moorland Adventures Aplenty
Barnstaple is equally celebrated for its quick access to Exmoor and Dartmoor National Parks, fringed with rolling moors, lush woodlands, and panoramic hiking trails. Whether walking, cycling, or wild swimming, these rugged landscapes offer endless opportunities, without venturing far from home.
Many local properties come with countryside views stretching to Exmoor—ideal for nature lovers seeking that sense of escape right on their doorstep.
Affordable Homes with Character
Despite its proximity to surf and moorland hotspots, Barnstaple remains affordable compared to southern hotspots:
- Detached 3-bedroom homes in Roundswell are listed around £365,000 —modern, spacious, and perfect for families.
- Characterful Edwardian and countryside properties in Landkey and Goodleigh can range from £500k–£1.15 million, many offering acreage, stunning gardens, and renovation potential.
- Market town locations, including riverfront and suburbia, offer 3–4 bedroom homes well under £600k .
With Estate Agents in Barnstaple, you can find homes that balance proximity to the moors and coast with practicality and affordability.
Lifestyle & Community Benefits
Barnstaple combines small-town charm with well-connected amenities:
- A vibrant Victorian Pannier Market brings local produce, crafts, and community events to life.
- The Tarka Trail, recycled from former railways, provides scenic, traffic-free walking and cycling paths—perfect for daily exercise.
- Easy motorway access (A361 to M5), plus direct rail links to Exeter and Bristol, makes commuting and travel stress-free.
Working with Northwood Barnstaple
For those ready to explore properties that suit this outdoor-driven lifestyle, collaborating with the Estate Agents in Barnstaple team at Northwood offers invaluable benefits:
- Local expertise to pinpoint homes with coastal or moorland views.
- Insight into up-and-coming areas like Roundswell, Landkey, and Goodleigh.
- Guidance on lifestyle considerations—from broadband for working from home to handy surf storage and outdoor gear space.
Final Word
Barnstaple is a rare blend: surf, moors, and community—all wrapped up in an affordable property market. Whether you’re a surf enthusiast, a nature walker, or a family seeking space and serenity, Barnstaple delivers.
When you’re ready to find a home that supports this vibrant outdoor lifestyle, reach out to Northwood and their dedicated Estate Agents in Barnstaple. They’ll guide you to homes that make the most of North Devon’s natural playgrounds—and your budget.