Barnstaple or Bideford Bay

Barnstaple and Bideford Bay are located along the northern coast of Devon, England. These areas are renowned for their stunning natural beauty, offering a combination of picturesque sea views, estuaries, and creeks.

Barnstaple Bay is situated at the confluence of the Taw and Torridge rivers, making it an estuarine environment. The bay stretches from the town of Barnstaple to the coastal village of Instow. It is characterized by its vast expanses of sandy beaches, which are perfect for leisurely walks, sunbathing, or building sandcastles. The estuary is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, attracting a multitude of bird species, including curlews, redshanks, and oystercatchers.

Bideford Bay lies adjacent to Barnstaple Bay, stretching from the town of Bideford to the village of Westward Ho! This bay is notable for its long sandy beach, which is popular among surfers and water sports enthusiasts. The beach is backed by grassy dunes and offers breathtaking views of Lundy Island, a designated Marine Nature Reserve. The bay is also home to the Northam Burrows Country Park, a nature reserve that provides a habitat for a variety of wildlife, including ponies, sheep, and birds.

Both Barnstaple and Bideford Bay offer a range of recreational activities, such as sailing, kayaking, and fishing. The towns surrounding these bays provide ample amenities, including shops, restaurants, and accommodations, making them popular destinations for tourists and locals alike.