Barnstaple, Barnstaple, England, United Kingdom Glamping Tent Accommodation

Glamping Near Exmoor National Park

Exmoor is a natural playground just a short drive from Barnstaple, offering wide-open skies, gentle moorland walks, and family-friendly routes. Glamping tents in this area frequently feature sturdy wooden decks, covered dining spaces, and heated interiors that keep even the youngest travelers warm on cooler evenings. Look for tents with secure, enclosed decking to prevent little explorers from wandering off, and ensure there’s easy access to clean water, bathrooms, and kitchen facilities. A well-equipped glamping setup here allows families to pop in and out of nature with minimal packing changes, which is an important convenience for busy holidays.

Pro tips for families: choose sites with clearly marked paths, lighted walkways for dusk strolls, and on-site hosts who can share kid-friendly walking routes or short nature trails. Plan a couple of relaxed days with slow mornings, simple meals, and short adventures that end with a comfortable tent or cabin waiting back at base. Exmoor’s scenery makes for magical family photos, and the wide-open spaces support safe, supervised playtime for children of all ages.

Waterside Glamping Along the Taw Estuary

Several glamping destinations sit along the Taw Estuary, offering views of calm waters and easy access to beaches and riverside paths. These setups often provide shaded seating areas, hot water, and fully equipped kitchens, which simplify meal times after a day of exploration. Look for tents with screened windows or vented openings to keep the air fresh and to reduce the need for artificial cooling on warm Devon days.

Family-friendly activities around these sites include gentle riverside strolls, birdwatching from decked platforms, and short loops along estuary trails that are suitable for strollers. A nearby village or café cluster can provide familiar snack options for picky eaters, making spontaneous stops convenient rather than disruptive to a carefully planned day. For safety, choose glamping sites with clear boundaries, secure gates, and accessible restrooms close to the tents.

Coastal Glamping Near Woolacombe, Croyde, and Saunton

For families who want a quick splash of sea air, coastal glamping near Woolacombe, Croyde, or Saunton offers dramatic cliffs, beaches with soft sand, and seasonal lifeguards in popular zones. Glamping tents in these areas tend to be well-equipped for family life: sturdy festival-style tents with wooden floors, private or semi-private bathrooms, and simple outdoor cooking spaces. Proximity to the coast means you can squeeze in beach days between naps and meals, making it one of the most convenient ways to enjoy North Devon’s coast without long daily drives.

Useful tips: check the tide times and wind forecasts before beach days. Choose accommodations with easy beach access or parking to minimize time spent in traffic with tired youngsters. Some glampsites also provide portable camp cots, high chairs, and family-friendly board games—great conveniences for parents aiming to keep routines stable during holidays.

What to Look For in a Family-Friendly Glamping Tent

• Secure, child-proofed spaces: enclosed decks, gate latches, and stable fencing where applicable.
• Well-equipped kitchens: a fridge, stove or hot plate, pots/pans, utensils, and a safe place to store snacks for quick meals.
• Heating and insulation: reliable heating in cooler months and good ventilation for warmer evenings.
• Clean, private bathrooms or easy access to shared facilities with reliable hot water.
• Reliable bedding and a plan for cleaning supplies, including a basic first aid kit and accessible medical information.
• Accessibility considerations: level ground, ramps, and proximity to parking to minimize heavy carrying of gear and children.
• Flexible check-in/check-out: contactless options can reduce waiting times and help align schedules with flight or train arrivals.
• Safety-minded extras: clear emergency contacts, on-site staff availability, and safety briefings for families arriving at a site.

Urban and Natural Explorations in Barnstaple

Barnstaple combines history with modern amenities, making it an ideal starting point for family days out. Stroll the long bridge over the River Taw to reach the Shipton Street area, then explore the Pannier Market for locally produced foods and crafts. The town center is compact enough to cover on foot, reducing transit time and keeping little ones engaged with frequent snack breaks. Consider a family scavenger hunt through the town to add a sense of adventure without leaving the safety of well-lit, busy streets.

Beaches and Coastal Fun for All Ages

Instow Beach and nearby Woolacombe and Saunton offer kid-friendly seas and surf settings. During peak season, designated swimming zones and lifeguard services help families enjoy beach days with confidence. Bring a shade tent, sunhat, and a portable shade setup to protect children from sun exposure, and pack a small first aid kit for minor scrapes. Tidal knowledge is a quick skill to teach older children: always check the tide timetable before long beach visits. Short, supervised shoreline walks can turn into long storytelling sessions as you explore shells, rocks, and seaweed discoveries.

Nature Trails and Wildlife Watching

The Tarka Trail offers gentle, family-friendly routes for cycling or walking along the River Taw. Choose kid-friendly distances, bring snacks, and plan several rest stops. For younger children, short loops with frequent stops for a snack or a quick duck-and-swan watch can turn a walk into a day-long memory. If you’re visiting Exmoor or nearby reserves, keep dogs on a leash, carry water for pets, and respect wildlife habitats to ensure safe, enjoyable encounters for everyone.

Heritage and Hands-On Learning

Arlington Court, a National Trust property near Barnstaple, provides a mix of gardens, trails, and a touch of history that’s approachable for families. Short guided strolls, carriage displays, and open lawns give children space to roam safely while adults appreciate the landscape and stories. Barnstaple’s museums, local galleries, and the historic navigation links along the Taw River can be woven into an easy, culture-rich itinerary that’s still relaxed and kid-friendly.

Before You Go

• Check the accommodation’s safety features in advance: child-proofing measures, gate locks, secure stair gates, and accessible bathrooms.
• Pack thoughtfully: a light first-aid kit, child-safe sunscreen, hats, refillable water bottles, and a simple rain cover for outdoor plans.
• Confirm check-in procedures, including flexible or contactless options to minimize waiting times and contact points upon arrival.
• Review local emergency numbers and healthcare options near your chosen base, especially if traveling with very young children or seniors.

Everyday Comfort and Convenience

• Choose accommodations with a kitchen or kitchenette to prepare quick meals for energy and routine, especially for picky eaters or.
• Look for accessible paths, well-lit walkways, and well-maintained parking to reduce stress when transporting gear or strollers.
• Verify that water access and heating systems are reliable, ensuring consistent hot water for baths and dishes—this matters a lot to families with small children.
• Keep a simple daily plan: two activity options (one beach day, one nature walk) plus a flexible rest period, so the family can adjust if someone needs extra downtime.

Food, Eating Out, and Family Meals

North Devon’s farm shops, pubs with family menus, and cafés near Barnstaple offer tasty, kid-friendly options. When possible, book accommodations with nearby grocery access or lodge kitchens so you can easily prepare familiar meals for younger children. For days when you choose to dine out, select family-friendly venues known for accommodating children, with quieter corners and easy stroller access. Having a plan for meals reduces stress and helps children settle after long activities.

Day 1: Arrival and River Walk

Settle into your Barnstaple accommodation. Unpack with the family, explore the immediate surroundings, and enjoy a casual riverside stroll along the Taw or a gentle loop around the town center. Grab an easy dinner in town and head back to your unit for early bedtime stories and a calm night to reset from travel.

Day 2: Beach Day at Instow or Woolacombe

Spend the day at a family-friendly beach with easy parking and safe swimming zones. Bring a shade tent, a picnic, and a bucketful of plastic toys for the sand. In the afternoon, head back to your glamping site for a relaxing dinner and perhaps a campfire (where permitted) with a simple dessert.

Day 3: Exmoor Mini-Adventure

Choose a short Exmoor trail suitable for kids, followed by a stop at a café or farm shop. If the weather is cooler, bring extra layers and hot drinks to savor after a windy walk. Evening at the tent or your vacation rental with board games and a family film night makes for a cozy end to the day.

Day 4: Barnstaple Pannier Market and Arlington Court

Morning market visit offers local foods and crafts and can be a fun, sensory-rich experience for children. In the afternoon, visit Arlington Court for a stroll through gardens and a peek at carriages. Return to your base for a light supper and a quiet evening.

Day 5: Water-based Activities or River Excursion

Consider a gentle family-friendly kayaking or a guided boat ride if available in the area, or simply another riverside walk with a nature scavenger hunt tailored for kids. A relaxed afternoon with crafts or a book corner at your accommodation helps balance the week.

Day 6: Free Day for Local Discovery

Let the day be spontaneous: ask locals for a hidden trail, a quiet beach cove, or a family-friendly activity. A flexible plan reduces stress and keeps the trip fresh for children who learn best through curiosity and play.

Day 7: Packing and Departure

Pack thoughtfully, ensuring nothing important is left behind. If time allows, enjoy a final stroll through town, a last local snack, or a quick photo session to capture your family’s North Devon memories.