The Charms of North Devon
A relaxing North Devon break based in Barnstaple at the Royal & Fortescue Hotel, featuring visits to Quince Honey Farm and RHS Rosemoor, Barnstaple market and Bideford, a Dartington Crystal factory tour, plus coastal scenery in Ilfracombe and a nostalgic steam ride on the Lynton & Barnstaple Railway.
Overview
Highlights
- ✦Executive coach travel
- ✦4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast
- ✦Dartington Crystal Factory Tour
- ✦Quince Honey Farm
- ✦RHS Rosemoor
- ✦Lynton & Barnstaple Railway
Day by day
- Day 1
Sunday
We depart from local pick-up points and travel to Devon and arriving late afternoon at The Royal & Fortescue Hotel, Barnstaple our base for the next 4 nights.
- Day 2
Monday
After a leisurely breakfast, we head to Quince Honey Farm, South Molton, to uncover the secret life of bees and the honey making process. Watch a beekeeping demo, enjoy a tour and tasting in the honey factory or explore the Nectar Garden and Seed Bar where you’ll find bee friendly seeds to take home to your own garden! In the afternoon we head on to RHS Rosemoor – an award-winning gem nestled in the Torridge Valley. This delightful garden blends formal and informal plantings to magical effect. Explore the rose gardens, the long borders and the exotic gardens. There are delights to be found in every season at this stunning garden - from the springtime cherry blossom to the vibrant colours of the Hot Garden in the summer.
- Day 3
Tuesday
Today is Barnstaple Market Day and we have the morning free to explore the town with its elegant Georgian buildings. Our afternoon visit takes us to the ancient seaport of Bideford, delightfully set on the banks of the River Torridge. We end the day with a visit to Dartington Crystal. Where we enjoy a behind-the-scenes factory tour with skilled craftsmen demonstrating how they handcraft glass into luxury homeware items.
- Day 4
Wednesday
After a leisurely breakfast this morning, we travel west to visit the Victorian seaside resort of Ilfracombe - the jewel on the North Devon Coast. Discover a quaint quayside and harbour, whitewashed villas, lovely beaches, coastal paths and an abundance of cafes and shops. After lunch, we journey the short distance to enjoy a steam ride on the Lynton & Barnstaple Railway. Board the heritage carriages to enjoy a traditional steam ride through the rolling countryside with picturesque views of the moorland and rugged coastline along the way.
- Day 5
Thursday
After breakfast, we leave and begin our journey home.
Where you'll stay
The Royal & Fortescue Hotel
The Royal & Fortescue hotel is situated in Barnstaple town centre. Formerly a coaching inn, this historic and traditional market town hotel earned its present title after patronage by King Edward VII. The hotel offers all modern facilities while retaining its charm and character. All bedrooms are en-suite and have television, telephone, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities. Please note the hotel lift does not serve all floors.
Pickup points
Choose your preferred pickup at checkout. Specific times are confirmed after booking.
| Pickup point | Pickup time |
|---|---|
| Norwich, Harford P&R | After booking |
| Long Stratton, The Plain Bus Stop | After booking |
| Harleston, Broad Street Bus Shelter | After booking |
| Diss Depot, Simonds Depot, Oak Drive | After booking |
| Diss, Park Road, Bus Station | After booking |
| Botesdale, Simonds Court Bus Stop | After booking |
| Stanton, Shepherds Grove Park Main Gate | After booking |
| Stanton, The Memorial | After booking |
| Ixworth, Greyhound bus stop | After booking |
| Ixworth, Pykkerell | After booking |
| Bury St Edmunds, Bus Station Bay 9 | After booking |
| Newmarket, A14/A142 Fordham Road Tesco Bus Stop | After booking |
| Dereham - Boots, The Market Place | After booking |
| Watton - The Crown, High Street | After booking |
| Thetford - The Chase | After booking |
Alternative pick-ups may be available on request. Please call 01379 647 300.