The name of Barnstaple probably derives from the Old English "Beardan Stapol" meaning the post (perhaps literally trading post) of a man called Bearda. The town that that grew up here in the 9th and 10th centuries, on a ford of the river, gradually became more important than the original hilltop settlement at Pilton.
The town developed as a market and commercial centre, with pottery, metalwork and other industries that served the surrounding area. It also became the base for enterprising merchants who traded with Europe, Ireland and the New World. In 1588 ships sailed from the port of Barnstaple to join the fight against the Spanish Armada. Humorous rivalry still exists between Barnstaple and Bideford as to who sent the most ships.
Barnstaple's most notable merchant, Delbridge, traded wool, pottery and assisted emigrants to the "New Worlds" of the Americas. Towns to this day in and around Virginia and the Bahamas are named after Devon places and the colonists' descendants bear Devon family names.
The recommended way to explore Historic Barnstaple is to follow the Heritage Trail. The significant buildings on the trail are marked by commemorative plaques. A brief description of the places on the trail is given below. To fully appreciate the trail the visitor is advised to purchase a copy of the Heritage Trail Booklet from theMuseum of Barnstaple and North Devonor the Heritage Centre.
This article is copyrighted by Barnstaple Town Center Management
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