Easter Events and Things to Do in Barnstaple

Looking for Easter events in Barnstaple or things to do in North Devon during the Easter holidays? The area comes alive in spring, with family attractions, countryside walks and seasonal activities taking place across the region.

From Easter egg hunts and farm attractions to coastal adventures and garden trails, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the Easter break in and around Barnstaple.

Easter at The Big Sheep

One of the most popular Easter events near Barnstaple takes place at The Big Sheep in nearby Bideford, which runs a packed programme of family activities throughout the school holidays.

The celebrations begin with Pre-Easter Fun on the Farm from 28 March to 2 April, when visitors can enjoy live shows, sheep racing, lambing demonstrations and Easter themed craft activities. Children can also meet the Easter Bunny and explore the park’s rides and play areas, including the Rampage Roller Coaster, train ride and giant jumping pillows.

The highlight of the Easter weekend is The BIG Egg Hunt, running from 3 April to 6 April. Every child visiting during the event can take part in the egg hunt and take home a chocolate Easter egg. Families can also enjoy the new EGGstravaganza Easter Show featuring the Easter Bunny, alongside daily Easter arts and crafts sessions.

Visit RHS Garden Rosemoor

Spring is one of the best times to visit RHS Garden Rosemoor, located around 30 minutes from Barnstaple.

Families can take part in the themed “Who framed the Easter Bunny?” detective trail during the Easter holidays. The story begins with the Easter Bunny wrongly accused after chocolate eggs mysteriously disappear, leaving a carrot behind as evidence. Young visitors can follow clues hidden around the gardens to uncover which of eight suspicious characters is responsible. Equipped with a detective pack containing puzzles, colouring activities and secret ciphers, children work their way around the trail solving the mystery. A simpler version is available for younger children, and every young detective receives a chocolate prize at the end.

At this time of year the gardens are full of colour, with spring bulbs, blossom trees and new seasonal planting making it a particularly scenic place to visit.

Explore North Devon’s Beaches

Barnstaple is perfectly placed for exploring some of North Devon’s best known beaches, many of which are just a short drive away.

Popular options include Saunton Sands, Woolacombe Beach and Croyde Bay. Easter is often a great time to visit before the busy summer season begins, with wide open beaches ideal for coastal walks, rock pooling and family picnics.

The surrounding coastline also offers access to the South West Coast Path, with spectacular views across the Atlantic.

Discover Barnstaple Town Centre

Closer to home, Barnstaple itself has plenty to offer during the Easter holidays. Visitors can explore the historic Pannier Market, browse independent shops in the town centre or enjoy cafés and restaurants along the River Taw.

With parks, riverside walks and family friendly attractions nearby, it is easy to spend a relaxed day exploring the town.

Living in Barnstaple with Cavanna Homes

For those who enjoy the lifestyle Barnstaple and North Devon offer, Cavanna Homes is creating high quality new homes nearby at Bickington Park in Barnstaple and Hollywell Meadow in North Molton.

Bickington Park is located beside the River Taw and within easy reach of the town centre, while Hollywell Meadow offers a more rural setting within the North Devon countryside. From Bickington Park, residents can also enjoy easy access to Fremington Quay, a popular spot for waterside walks, cycling and cafés – perfect for rounding off a visit to the area.

With beaches, countryside and family attractions all within easy reach, both developments offer an ideal base for enjoying everything North Devon has to offer throughout the year.