North Devon Now

14/04/2026

Put your buisness, service or event in front of thousands with door to door leaflet distribution.

Professional leaflet distribution in North Devon. Target your local audience with reliable, affordable, door-to-door leaflet distribution

12/04/2026

💚 A plan to reshape Barnstaple's future is taking place...

A wide-ranging plan to reshape the future of a town centre is gathering pace, with early signs of falling crime, new investment opportunities and a renewed focus on culture and community life. A report presented to councillors outlines progress made by the Barnstaple Place Partnership Board, a multi...

03/04/2026

This Easter hop on over to Stoppers!

30/03/2026

🐣 Easter in North Devon – Family Fun Guide 🐣

Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained this Easter? North Devon is packed with egg hunts, adventures, and days out that’ll keep little ones busy (and nicely tired by bedtime).

🐰 Easter Events & Trails

Watermouth Castle
Easter Eggsplorers running 28 March – 12 April with egg hunts, rides, and meet-the-bunny fun

Heddon Valley
Outdoor Easter trail 28 March – 19 April with nature activities and chocolate rewards

Arlington Court
Family Easter adventures and trails across the grounds during the holidays

Clovelly Village
Easter Chick Hunt 3–6 April, explore the village and win a prize

🎡 Local Events & Entertainment

Barnstaple Pannier Market
Free Family Easter Bingo on 2 April plus seasonal markets and entertainment

Calvert Devon
Easter activity break 3–6 April with outdoor adventures, crafts and zipline fun

Lynton & Barnstaple Railway
Reopening on 3rd April with all-day travel tickets, unlimited rides, and children under 14 travelling free with a paying adult. Station shop and tea room open daily serving pasties, cakes and Devon cream teas

Spring events across Barnstaple and Ilfracombe, including craft sessions, family workshops and seasonal activities

🐑 Top Family Attractions

The Big Sheep
Easter shows, lamb feeding, egg hunts and live entertainment

The Milky Way Adventure Park
Rides, shows and indoor fun whatever the weather

Quince Honey Farm
Bees, hands-on activities and spring-themed fun

🌊 Easy Wins (That Always Work)

Beach day at Woolacombe

Rock pooling and coastal exploring

Ice cream stops that somehow become the main event

🎯 Make the Most of It

Mix big days out with simple adventures, and you’ve got the perfect Easter break sorted.

Planning your Easter? Save this post, tag someone who needs ideas, and start filling up the diary before everything books up.

What are your favourite things to do with the kids in North Devon? Let us know in the comments.

30/03/2026

Is your van ready for spring adventures?

Spring is here… time to revamp your ride.

Ready to give your Volkswagen, SEAT, Skoda or Audi a fresh new feel for the season? From practical upgrades to adventure-ready accessories, we’ve got everything you need to make your vehicle work harder and look better.

Heading to the coast, the trails or planning weekend escapes? We can kit your vehicle out with the right gear to carry it all, from boards and bikes to kayaks and more.

Everything is supplied and fitted on-site by our experienced team, so you can drive away ready for whatever spring has in store.

Upgrade your vehicle. Upgrade your adventures.

📞 Call 01271 379 549 or pop in and see us in Barnstaple today.
📍 Upcott Avenue, Pottington Business Park, Barnstaple, EX31 1HN

🚗🌿🔧

30/03/2026

Hello, I’m a hedgehog, and if you keep shutting me out of your garden, I’m going to go extinct. I’m already on the IUCN Red List (GB) as vulnerable. It might sound dramatic, but for those of us navigating the modern world, the fences you build are walls we simply cannot climb. We aren’t looking to take over; we’re just small travellers on a nightly quest for food and a safe place to rest our weary heads. When every garden is sealed shut, our world shrinks, our food disappears, and our families are torn apart by barriers we don’t understand.

I promise I’m a neighbour worth having. I’ll spend my nights quietly patrolling your flowerbeds, acting as your natural pest control. I don’t ask for much—just a tiny gap at the bottom of a fence, a “hedgehog highway,” so I can pass through safely without having to risk the dangerous, busy roads that claim so many of my friends.

Please, take a moment to look at your garden through my eyes. A little corner of wildflowers, a shallow dish of water, or even just a small hole in the fence can be the difference between a future for my kind and a world where we only exist in picture books. I want to keep snuffling through the leaves and waking up to the smell of your garden, but I can’t do it alone. I need you to let me in.

If you can, make a small change today and help create a hedgehog-friendly garden. Share this post to spread the word, and drop a comment below if you’ve spotted a hedgehog or created your own hedgehog highway.

27/03/2026

❓WHAT ARE YOU UP TO THIS SATURDAY?
☑️ANSWER: GOING ALONG TO THE WOODYARD EASTER QUIZ!

Brush up on your trivia, and join The Woodyard for an evening of laughter and friendly rivalry. Their brilliant Quiz Master has come up with a great mix of questions on a range of topics. So go on your own or with friends or family – the more the merrier. 😍

(And don’t worry, you don’t have to be Mastermind to take part – there really is something for everyone!).

🧡Date: Saturday 28th March 2026
⌚️Time: Quiz begins at 7pm (doors open 6.30pm)
🏦Venue: Castle Centre Hall, 25 Castle Street, Barnstaple EX31 1DR 🎟️Tickets: Just £5 per person. Teams of up to six (if coming solo, the team will soon find some friendly faces for you to join).

BRING YOUR OWN FOOD AND DRINK (alcoholic or otherwise) and settle in for a great night out. 🍷 🧀 Plus, chocolate goodies for the winning team!

BOOK YOUR PLACE on the Eventbrite site here: https://tinyurl.com/3hr8t8hb OR just turn up and pay for your entry in CASH at the door.

All funds raised will support The Woodyard UK, a community project hosted by North Devon Voluntary Services - NDVS and inspired by the work of well-known author Ann Cleeves.

There will be a fun community atmosphere and the chance to support a great local cause - creating activities to connect us all and safe spaces where no-one feels lonely.

26/03/2026

Our friends at Age Concern are looking for a volunteer. If you feel you may be able to help please get in touch.

👋 VACANCY AVAILABLE: Volunteer Booking Desk Assistants – Community Transport
Would you like to make a real difference to people in your local community? We need friendly, reliable volunteers to join our Community Transport Booking Desk Team. You’ll be helping local residents access essential journeys—such as medical appointments, shopping trips, and social activities—by taking their calls and arranging bookings.

What we’re looking for
😁 A confident, friendly telephone manner – you’ll be the first point of contact for our passengers.
💻 Comfort using computers – including Outlook email and our transport booking system (full training provided).
👍 Good attention to detail – helping ensure bookings are accurate and smooth.
🤩 Enjoys chatting with people and offering great customer service.

What you’ll gain
💚 A supportive, warm, welcoming environment where you'll be valued by people who appreciate your time.
💜 Full training and ongoing support.
❤ The opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of local people.
💛 A rewarding role that fits around your availability.

👉 Tuesdays and Thursday between 9:30 - 15:00
Or a Morning shift 09:30 - 12:30 / Afternoon Shift 12:30 - 15:30
Potential for emergency cover too, for when other volunteers are unable to come in.
🩷 Interested in joining us?
We’d love to hear from you! 👌

Get in touch to find out more or to apply. You can give us a call or drop us an email—whatever suits you best. please get in touch with our Volunteer Manager Jill Ackland on 01271 445134 or email jill@ageconcernnorthdevon.org.uk.
👍 You can call into our office, Suite 301, Queen's House, Queen Street, Barnstaple, EX32 8HJ, Monday – Friday 9.30am-3.30pm.

26/03/2026

£15 Ferry Across the Bristol Channel Moves Closer as “Compelling” Case Sparks Major Interest

Plans for a high-speed, low-cost ferry linking Swansea with south-west England have taken a significant step forward, with a new report backing the scheme as economically “compelling”.

The proposed service would see zero-emission ferries crossing the Bristol Channel at speeds of up to 40 knots, with fares expected to start from around £15 per journey. If delivered, the project could offer a faster and more sustainable alternative to driving along the often congested M4 and M5.

Commissioned by Swansea Council and led by Ocean Prime Industries Ltd, the report explored demand, pricing, environmental impact and long-term viability. It found overwhelming public support for the idea, with 97.8% of more than 4,000 respondents in favour of the scheme.

The proposed “OceanJet Line” could eventually see up to eight vessels in operation, each capable of carrying hundreds of passengers along with cars and light cargo. Services could run up to 20 times a day for most of the year, with the first crossings potentially launching by 2030.

Routes under consideration include links between Swansea and locations such as Ilfracombe, Appledore and Burry Port, although final decisions on ports and infrastructure are yet to be made.

The vessels would be powered by a combination of hydrogen and electric energy, positioning the project at the forefront of green maritime technology. Alongside environmental benefits, the report highlights the potential to create hundreds of direct jobs and support thousands more across the wider supply chain, while boosting tourism and regional economies on both sides of the channel.

Despite strong backing, several challenges remain. These include the need for investment in port infrastructure, the development of hydrogen supply chains, and designing vessels capable of handling the Bristol Channel’s demanding weather and tidal conditions. However, the report concludes these are practical hurdles rather than fundamental barriers.

Dave Sampson, who authored the report, described the project as a “nationally significant strategic” initiative, comparable in ambition to major infrastructure projects such as HS2. He also suggested that a working prototype vessel could be developed as early as this year.

The proposal will now move into a more detailed planning phase, with further collaboration expected between councils, industry partners and government bodies across the region.

Cllr Rob Stewart, leader of Swansea Council, said:
“The findings give us confidence to move into the next stage of work… to examine how a service like this could be delivered.”

While enthusiasm is high, some voices have urged caution, highlighting the importance of long-term investment planning and realistic expectations around delivery.

If successful, the ferry could transform travel across the Bristol Channel, offering a quicker, greener and more affordable connection between South Wales and the south-west of England.

13/03/2026

GET READY! The Woodyard Easter Quiz is hopping your way! 🐇

Time to brush up on your trivia, and join us for an evening of laughter and friendly competition.

📅 Date: Saturday 28th March 2026
🕖 Time: Quiz begins at 7pm
📍 Venue: Castle Centre Hall, 25 Castle Street, Barnstaple EX31 1DR
🎟 Tickets: Just £5 per person

🥪 Bring your own food and drinks (alcoholic or otherwise) and settle in for a great night out.

BOOK YOUR PLACE on the Eventbrite site here: https://tinyurl.com/3hr8t8hb

Their brilliant Quiz Master will be putting your knowledge to the test with a mix of questions on a range of topics. So come on your own, bring friends or family or join others on the night – everyone is welcome and all Easter bunnies are invited!
Doors open from 6.30pm.

All funds raised will support The Woodyard UK, a community project hosted by North Devon Voluntary Services - NDVS and inspired by the work of well-known author Ann Cleeves.

We promise you a fun community atmosphere and the chance to support a great local cause, creating activities and spaces where no-one feels lonely and all are welcome. The Woodyard UK

12/03/2026

Crack the Case This Easter: RHS Gardens Launch Family Detective Trails and Spring Adventures

With the Easter holidays just around the corner, families can enjoy the great outdoors with egg-cellent activities across all five RHS Gardens. Families can become Easter detectives with a cracking activity trail to discover ‘Who Framed the Easter Bunny', immerse themselves in the beloved world of Wind in the Willows, and enjoy the arrival of spring.

Spring is the perfect time to take in the spectacular plant life as the gardens come alive with incredible seasonal colour. Visitors can take in glorious displays of camellias, rhododendrons, blossoms and magnolias as well as beautiful spring bulbs, uplifting signs that signal the start of the gardening season.

The Easter Detectives: Who Framed the Easter Bunny
Selected dates between 3 - 28 March
Families can enjoy a cracking family adventure at the five RHS Gardens this Easter with The Easter Detectives trail. The brand-new experience invites families to solve the mystery of who framed the Easter Bunny, following clues linked to eight sneaky suspects. Using an activity pack, families can embark on a puzzle-solving adventure to uncover the truth behind the missing chocolate, save Easter and earn a chocolate treat to take home.
Along the way visitors can enjoy the gardens bursting with spring colour from vibrant bulbs to beautiful blossoms.

Activity packs cost £3 per child in addition to garden entry. Pre-booking guarantees a Detective Pack on arrival, walk-up purchases will be subject to availability.

Dates, times, and activities vary per garden; please see below and check the website for details: www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/articles/easter-with-the-rhs

RHS Garden Rosemoor, Devon
Friday 3 – Sunday 19 April 2026
Curious minds are encouraged to join the Easter Detectives trail at RHS Rosemoor‚ surrounded by the sights and scents of spring. Families can follow clues hidden around the garden to solve the mystery of who framed the Easter Bunny. Crack codes, uncover suspects and enjoy a springtime family adventure. During Easter weekend, Friday 3 – Monday 6 April, between 11am and 3pm the Easter Bunny will be visiting RHS Rosemoor.

Children's tickets cost £5.00 and adult entry starts from £16.85. Members and under-fives go free. A £3.00 charge applies for a special Easter Detective pack, pre booking is advised. For more information and to book tickets, please visit Easter 2026 | RHS Garden Rosemoor / RHS


Wind in the Willows: A Garden Adventure

This Easter and for the rest of the year, little ones can explore the five iconic RHS Gardens and enjoy the brand-new Wind in the Willows trails.

Inspired by the beloved classic children’s novel The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame and brought to life with EH Shepard’s enchanting original illustations, the trail invites families to step into the world of Mr Toad, Ratty, Mole and Badger.

Visitors can journey through the gardens' this spring to discover favourite characters hidden among plants and pathways, with sensory boxes, garden games and photo opportunities for creating special family memories.

For further information and to book, please visit: www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/articles/wind-in-the-willows-garden-adventure

Easter at RHS Gardens
Beyond Easter trails and themed activities, the RHS Gardens offer the perfect spring day out. Falling at one of the most spectacular moments in the gardening calendar, Easter is an ideal time to enjoy fresh air and wide-open spaces, gather inspiration for the season ahead and explore vibrant spring displays. Visitors can also browse RHS Shops for a wide range of plants, gardening tools, homeware and seasonal gifts, taking a little garden inspiration home with them.

Garden entry is free for RHS Members and children under 5, with children aged 5–16 are just £5 each. Book online in advance to save and plan your Easter adventure: https://www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/articles/easter-with-the-rhs

11/03/2026