Barnstaple is one of the main towns in Devon. I lived there for 19years and plan to move back there in the next year. I think it's a lovely place to live. I have to admit it's not brilliant for shopping but you have most of the well known shops like Woolworths, new look, burtons, top shop and many more. Also there is a train station there so if you do want to go somewhere for a bit better shopping you can get the train to Exeter as it's only an hour train ride away. Most of the neighbouring villages go to Barnstaple to do there shopping and for a night out i.e. Braunton, Combe martin, Ilfracombe.

The night life is ok obviously not as good as a city but you can still have a good night out. The main clubs that everyone goes to are Glitterball or funky monkeys the club is a bit cheesy but you are bound to have a laugh, there are also lots of other pubs to go in round the town. I also have heard there will be a few more clubs opening in the next couple weeks.

Another benefit that Barnstaple has is there are beaches that are nearby like Croyde, Woolacombe, Hele Bay etc.. which have lovely golden sands or pebbles. So if you just want to chill out you can go there or you fancy taking up surf lessons or just to go eat at the cafes and restaurants then this is ideal.

In the summer Barnstaple and the surrounding villages get packed as the tourist love coming down to this seaside resort. A lot of people that move down from the cities comment on how friendly everyone is down in Devon as when you go to get your paper in the morning or for a stroll in the morning most people stop to talk to you. A lot of people choose to bring there children up here as it's very safe and there's many family days out you can enjoy and it's very chilled out.