Museum on the Square
1 / 10

Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon

4.6
·511 reviews·, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Catch special exhibits

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Museum on the Square

Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon

Best Time

Summer mornings

Catch special exhibits

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(511 reviews)

"A decent local museum with some interesting exhibits about the history of Barnstaple and North Devon."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

North Devon's Rich History

North Devon's Rich History

Permanent Collections

Explore archaeology, natural history, and social history spanning centuries of North Devon life.

Local Flora & Fauna

Local Flora & Fauna

Nature Exhibits

Fascinating taxidermy and displays showcasing the region's diverse wildlife.

Artistic Expressions

Artistic Expressions

Temporary Exhibition Space

Discover rotating exhibitions, often featuring talented local artists and cultural themes.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Free Entry, Big Discoveries

The Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon offers free admission, making it an accessible gem. Plan your visit for a few hours to explore its diverse collections, from ancient pottery to local flora and fauna. Donations are highly encouraged to support this community treasure.

Seasonal Exhibitions & Local Charm

Beyond its permanent displays, the museum hosts rotating temporary exhibitions, often featuring local artists and historical themes. Check their schedule before visiting to catch special events or art showcases, especially during summer months.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Catch special exhibits
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed pace
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

we’re going to barnstaple fringe theatrefest in barnstaple so we wrote a song about it xxx #SketchComedy #JackandJordan #TwegsOnTour #CosmicTwegheads #Barnstaple #BarnstapleMuseum #TheBridgeWhatIsInBarnstaple #fyp #ShockingMomentsCaughtOnCamera
@jackandjordan.mp4
10.5K likes • 137.1K views

🎯 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:

Honestly Bull & Bear in Barnstaple was fantatic! Food was great, the staff were super friendly!! Highly recommend
@noturbasicmama
3.6K likes • 53.1K views
Meet the lovely Bea, volunteer at the Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon.
barummuseum
18 likes • 347 views

🖼️ 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:

The Summer Exhibition of North Devon Arts is now open at Barnstaple Museum on the square! Lots of beautiful artwork to admire and purchase, and a very interesting exhibition adjacent in the upstairs galleries too... Well worth visiting! X
joanna.andrews.artist
17 likes • 321 views

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

4.6
(511 reviews)

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

Free admission
Diverse collections
Victorian tea room

What People Dislike

Could use more info in some sections

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Since the museum is free, there are no discounts on admission. However, the free entry itself is a significant benefit for visitors. Reddit

The museum is generally closed on Sundays. Its usual operating days are Monday through Saturday. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. InstagramReddit

Yes, the museum is very family-friendly. Children often enjoy the taxidermy section and interactive displays. Reddit

Most visitors spend 1-3 hours exploring the collections, depending on their interest level and whether they visit temporary exhibitions. Reddit

While not always advertised, sometimes volunteers or staff may offer insights. It's best to inquire upon arrival about any informal tours or talks. Instagram

This exhibit features taxidermy and displays of animals and plants native to North Devon, offering a glimpse into the region's natural heritage. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Barnstaple town centre has numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants offering various dining options. Bull & Bear is a highly recommended spot nearby. TikTok

The tea room offers light refreshments, including coffee, tea, and cakes. The Victorian sponge cake is a particular highlight. Reddit

The tea room typically operates during museum hours, but it's wise to confirm its specific opening times, especially towards closing. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is permitted. However, flash photography might be restricted to protect delicate exhibits. Always check for signage. Instagram

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. Instagram

Drone photography is not permitted inside the museum. For external shots, be mindful of local regulations and privacy. TikTok

For research purposes, it's best to contact the museum administration in advance to seek permission and understand any specific guidelines. Reddit

Weekday afternoons often offer softer lighting and fewer crowds, which can be ideal for photography. The exterior looks lovely in natural daylight. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon is a fantastic, free outing for families. Kids often get a kick out of the taxidermy section, where they can spot various local animals. The museum's layout is generally easy to navigate with strollers, and the diverse exhibits can spark curiosity in young minds. Reddit

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. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

This museum is a dream for budget travelers as admission is completely free! Reddit You can spend hours exploring fascinating local history, nature, and art without spending a penny on entry. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

Keep an eye on the museum's schedule for temporary art exhibitions, which often feature talented local artists from North Devon. Instagram+1 These showcases provide a wonderful opportunity to discover new artists and purchase unique pieces. Instagram

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. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring North Devon's Heritage

The Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon serves as a vital repository for the region's rich history and culture. Its extensive collections, numbering around 80,000 objects, cover a broad spectrum including archaeology, natural history, and social history. Visitors can delve into the lives of past inhabitants, understand the geological formation of the area, and appreciate the diverse wildlife that calls North Devon home. Reddit

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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram+1

A Hub for Local Art and Culture

The Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon is more than just a historical archive; it's a vibrant centre for local arts and culture. It frequently hosts exhibitions by North Devon artists, providing a platform for creative talent within the community. These events, like the Summer Exhibition by North Devon Arts, draw attention to the region's thriving art scene. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

The Charming Victorian Tea Room

A delightful addition to the museum experience is its Victorian-style tea room. After exploring the diverse collections, visitors can relax and enjoy a traditional treat. It offers a perfect opportunity to reflect on the exhibits and soak in the atmosphere of a bygone era. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2