Devon North Coast Road Trip Itinerary
The Devon North Coast Road Trip is a great way to experience the stunning scenery of England's Devon County. Starting in Barnstaple and ending in Taunton, this 85 mile journey takes you through Braunton, Woolacombe and Lynmouth, with plenty of attractions and breathtaking views along the way. Best taken over three days, this trip is perfect for drivers of all levels and can be done in any season, but the spring and summer months are particularly stunning.
The roads are generally in good condition, though some of the roads can be narrow in places. The landscapes and beaches along the route are simply breathtaking, making this an unforgettable experience. However, this road trip does require a high budget, so it's important to plan accordingly.
The Devon North Coast Road Trip is a great way to experience the best of Devon County. With stunning scenery, plenty of attractions, and memories to last a lifetime, this is a road trip not to be missed.
3
number of days
137 km
route length
high
budget
family
good for
on the left
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Barnstaple
Distance 137 km
Driving time 4.7 h
Pace: slow
31.5 kWh
Airports
CWL
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EXT
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Barnstaple is the perfect starting point for the Devon North Coast Road Trip. Located in the south of England, it is easily reached by car or plane. The closest international airport is Exeter Airport (EXT) with car rentals available. Once there, visitors can explore the town’s many attractions. The Pannier Market is a great place to pick up fresh produce and local wares, while the Litchdon Street Gallery is a must for art lovers. For those looking for a bit of history, a visit to the Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon will provide an insight into the area’s past. Nature lovers can explore the nearby Braunton Burrows, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and the largest sand dune system in England. For those looking for a bit of excitement, the Tarka Trail is a great spot for walking, cycling and horse riding. Barnstaple is also home to some wonderful pubs and restaurants, so visitors can enjoy a relaxed meal before heading off on the Devon North Coast Road Trip.
1
Barnstaple
- Braunton
Distance 9 km
Driving time 0.2 h
Pace: slow
2.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome, road-trippers! Your next stage will take you from Barnstaple to Braunton in Devon, England. This 6mi drive will take you fewer than 1 hours, so you'll have plenty of time to explore the area.
In Barnstaple, you'll find the Pannier Market, a vibrant marketplace with a variety of shops and stalls. You can also visit the Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon to explore the history of the area.
As you continue your journey to Braunton, you'll find the Braunton Burrows, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It is home to an array of wildlife, including birds, and a variety of plants. You can also visit Croyde Bay, a popular beach with plenty of activities and attractions.
For more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Braunton - England - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Braunton - England - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Braunton
- Woolacombe
Distance 16 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: slow
3.6 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip experience? Then join us on the Braunton to Woolacombe journey. This 10mi journey will take you less than an hour to complete and you will be rewarded with some of the most breathtaking views along the way. Sections of the road will be narrow, so be sure to pay attention while driving. As you make your way to Woolacombe, be sure to take a break and visit some of the most interesting places. In Braunton, you can explore the Braunton Burrows and the Braunton Countryside Centre. In Woolacombe, you can admire the Woolacombe Sands Beach, the Valley of Rocks and the National Trust Woolacombe Estate. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Woolacombe - England - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Woolacombe - England - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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3
Woolacombe
- Lynmouth
Distance 40 km
Driving time 2.0 h
Pace: slow
9.3 kWh
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Welcome to the Woolacombe-Mortehoe-Lynmouth road trip! This scenic route takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of England. You'll start in the charming seaside town of Woolacombe, where you can take a stroll along the beach or explore the quaint shops and restaurants. From there, you'll drive 25 miles to Mortehoe, a picturesque village with a rich history. There, you can visit the ancient church and explore the surrounding countryside. Finally, you'll end your journey in Lynmouth, a charming coastal town with a picturesque harbor.
On your drive, be sure to take in the stunning views of the rolling hills and the sea. The road is narrow in sections, so keep an eye out for other drivers. As you travel, you'll be able to take in the historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the Itinerary of this stage. This journey will take you fewer than 2 hours, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride!
Lynmouth - England - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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4
Lynmouth
- Dunster
Distance 36 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: slow
8.2 kWh
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Welcome to the Lynmouth - Oare - Dunster road trip! This 22 mile journey will take you less than two hours to complete. Enjoy the narrow roads as you travel through the scenic countryside, taking in historical sites along the way. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for hidden gems as you make your way to Oare, and then to Dunster. Whilst in Oare, you can visit the church of St. Peter, which dates back to the 14th century. In Dunster, you can explore the medieval castle, or take a stroll around the picturesque village. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please see the itinerary for this stage. Bon voyage!
Dunster - England - Europe - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
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5
Dunster
- Taunton
Distance 36 km
Driving time 0.8 h
Pace: modest
9.4 kWh
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Get ready for a wonderful road trip from Dunster to Taunton! This 22 mi journey will take you less than an hour, so you'll have plenty of time to enjoy the scenic route. As you drive you will pass through the picturesque village of Washford, so be sure to keep an eye out for the narrow sections of the road. Along the way, you'll be able to take in the stunning views of the countryside, so make sure you take plenty of photos. Be sure to visit the historic Dunster Castle, the Washford Mill, and the beautiful Taunton Castle. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. Have a great trip!
Taunton - England - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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Taunton
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The historic town of Taunton, located in the county of Somerset in England, is the perfect ending to the "Devon North Coast Road Trip". This charming town is full of attractions that make it worth the visit.
Taunton Castle is one of the main attractions. This Norman castle was founded in the 10th century, and it has a rich history. Visitors will be able to explore the castle and its museum, as well as its beautiful gardens.
The town also has a variety of historical buildings, such as the St. Mary Magdalene Church, The Museum of Somerset and the Somerset County War Memorial. The Taunton Flower Show is also a popular event in the town, showcasing a variety of stunning flowers.
For those who enjoy the outdoors, there are plenty of parks and trails to explore. The Blackbrook Nature Reserve is a great place to observe wildlife and enjoy nature. The Quantock Hills are also a popular destination, with stunning views and plenty of walking trails.
For those who are visiting Taunton by car, the closest international airport is Bristol Airport (BRS). From there, it is a short drive to the town of Taunton.
At the end of the "Devon North Coast Road Trip," visitors will find plenty to explore and enjoy in the historic town of Taunton. With its rich history, stunning nature and plenty of attractions, it is a great place to end the journey.
Taunton - England - Europe - Road Trip - Pikist
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Devon North Coast Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Barnstaple
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End:
Taunton
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Distance:
137 km
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Stay:
3 days
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Getting there:
Cardiff International Airport (CWL),
Exeter International Airport (EXT)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
The Devon North Coast Road Trip is an enchanting journey stretching approximately 85 miles through the stunning landscapes of Devon County in England. This coastal expedition, celebrated for its dramatic cliffs, verdant countryside, and pristine beaches, begins in the historic town of Barnstaple and concludes in the market town of Taunton. As travelers meander along this route, they will encounter a tapestry of coastal towns and villages, each brimming with its own unique charm and heritage.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Barnstaple: As the largest town in North Devon, Barnstaple serves as the perfect launch point for the Road Trip. It boasts a rich history that can be explored through its traditional Pannier Market and the intriguing Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon.
- Braunton: In proximity to the impressive Saunton Sands Beach, Braunton is adjacent to the Braunton Burrows, a UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve renowned for its diverse flora and fauna.
- Woolacombe: Home to an award-winning sandy beach, Woolacombe offers three miles of golden sands and has been named one of the UK’s top beaches, popular with surfers and families alike.
- Lynmouth: Known as `Little Switzerland` by the Victorians, this clifftop village is not only picturesque but also home to the unique water-powered Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway, which offers stunning views of the coastline.
Best Time to Go:
The optimal period to embark on this Road Trip is during the spring and summer months when the Devon landscape bursts into life with colorful flora, and the weather conditions are ideal for coastal walks, beach activities, and sightseeing.
Potential Risks:
Visitors should be prepared for some narrow and winding Roads that characterize the English countryside, which may challenge inexperienced drivers. Moreover, considering this is a popular tourist destination, budgeting is important as some costs can be higher, especially during peak season.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway is the world's highest and steepest water-powered railway.
- Braunton Burrows hosts one of the largest sand dune systems in the United Kingdom.
- Woolacombe Beach has been awarded the Blue Flag for cleanliness and safety multiple times.
A good choice for:
The Devon North Coast Road Trip not only offers a picturesque drive but also a rich tapestry of English heritage and natural beauty. From idyllic beaches and historic sites to the rare ecosystems of UNESCO sites, this Road Trip promises a memorable and diverse experience for travelers. Whether seeking relaxation or adventure, the journey along Devon's North Coast is an exquisite blend of both.
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