A Relaxed Day Out to North Devon by Bus
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day by the coast or a fun-filled family adventure, Stagecoach makes it easy to explore North Devon without the need for a car. Choose from two fantastic day trips, each offering a different way to experience some of the region’s most popular attractions.
Option 1 – A Relaxed Day in Ilfracombe & Barnstaple by bus
Enjoy a scenic day combining the Victorian seaside charm of Ilfracombe with the historic market town of Barnstaple
Start your Day out in North Devon by Bus
Walking distance: Approximately 2–3 miles (3–5 km)
Duration: Full day (9:00am–5:00pm+)
Bus routes: Stagecoach 21B
Starting point: Barnstaple Bus Station
9:00am – Travel to Ilfracombe
Begin your day by boarding a Stagecoach 21B service towards Ilfracombe.
Bus details
Board: Barnstaple Bus Station 21B Service
Alight: St James’s Place, Ilfracombe
Journey time: Approximately 45 minutes
9:45am – Walk to Tunnels Beaches
From St James’s Place, follow the signs towards one of North Devon’s most unique coastal attractions.
Walking directions
- Walk towards St James’s Place.
- Continue downhill towards the harbour.
- Turn left into Bath Place.
- Follow the brown tourist signs for Tunnels Beaches.
Walking time: 6–8 minutes (approximately 450 metres)
10:00am – Explore Tunnels Beaches
Originally created during the Victorian era, Tunnels Beaches is famous for its hand-carved tunnels leading to sheltered beaches and dramatic coastal scenery.
Highlights
- Victorian hand-carved tunnels
- Private beaches
- Rock pools
- Panoramic sea views
- Seasonal beach café
Suggested time: Around 2 hours
12:00pm – Return to Barnstaple
Walk back to St James’s Place and board the next Stagecoach 21B service towards Barnstaple.
Bus details
Board: St James’s Place, Ilfracombe
Alight: Barnstaple Bus Station
Journey time: Approximately 45 minutes
12:45pm – Lunch in Barnstaple
From Barnstaple Bus Station, it’s just a short walk into the town centre where you’ll find a great selection of cafés and restaurants.
Recommended places to eat
62 The Bank & Bar: A popular choice offering modern British favourites in a relaxed setting.
Claytons & The Glasshouse: Ideal for light lunches, coffee and homemade cakes.
The Ganges: Perfect if you’re looking for authentic Indian cuisine.
Suggested time: Around 1 hour
2:00pm – Explore Barnstaple Pannier Market
Just a few minutes from the town centre restaurants, Barnstaple Pannier Market has been at the heart of the town for centuries.
Highlights
- Local crafts
- Independent traders
- Gifts and antiques
- Fresh local produce
Suggested time: Around 1 hour
3:00pm onwards – Return Home
Barnstaple Bus Station offers regular Stagecoach services throughout North Devon, making it easy to continue your journey home whenever you’re ready.
Optional Summer Extension – Visit Croyde Beach by bus
During the summer months, when the Stagecoach 21C is operating, you can extend your day with a visit to one of North Devon’s most famous beaches.
Bus details
Board: Barnstaple Bus Station
Alight: Croyde Bridge
From Croyde Bridge, walk approximately 12–15 minutes along St Mary’s Road and Beach Road to reach the beach.
Highlights
- Golden sandy beach
- Surfing
- Rock pools
- Beach cafés
- Return to Barnstaple on the next available Stagecoach 21C service.
Option 2 – A Family Day at The Milky Way Adventure Park by bus
Perfect for families, this itinerary combines a scenic bus journey with one of North Devon’s most popular attractions.
Walking distance: Approximately 1 mile (1.5 km)
Duration: Full day (9:00am–5:30pm+)
Bus routes: Stagecoach 21 or 21A, plus connecting service Stagecoach 319 towards Clovelly
Starting point: Barnstaple Bus Station
9:00am – Travel to Bideford
Begin your journey by boarding a Stagecoach 21 or 21A towards Bideford.
Bus details
Board: Barnstaple Bus Station
Alight: Bideford Quay
Journey time: Approximately 35 minutes
9:40am – Continue to The Milky Way Adventure Park
From Bideford, transfer to the Stagecoach 319 serving Clovelly and alight at the stop nearest The Milky Way Adventure Park.
From the bus stop, follow the signed footpath to the attraction.
Walking time: Approximately 10 minutes
10:15am – Enjoy The Milky Way Adventure Park
Spend the day exploring one of Devon’s favourite family attractions.
Highlights
- Roller coaster
- Devon’s largest indoor play area
- Dodgems
- Live entertainment
- Mini railway
- Adventure playgrounds
- Seasonal bird of prey displays
- There are several cafés, picnic areas and refreshment outlets throughout the park.
Suggested time: At least 5 hours
3:30pm – Begin Your Return Journey
Walk back to the bus stop and catch the return 319 service from The Milky Way Adventure Park to Bideford Quay.
From Bideford Quay, you can board a Stagecoach 21 or 21A (Stop B) or continue on the 319 (Stop A) service back to Barnstaple Bus Station.
You’ll arrive back in Barnstaple during the late afternoon or early evening.
Travel Tips
A Stagecoach Day ticket offers unlimited travel on eligible services throughout the day and can provide excellent value.
Check the latest bus timetables/ plan your journey before travelling, particularly for evening services and the seasonal 21C. You can also buy your ticket via the Stagecoach app for easy boarding.
Wear comfortable footwear, as each itinerary includes short walks between bus stops and attractions.
During the summer months, services to the coast can be particularly busy, so allow extra time for your journey.