RailFest Digital Heritage Trail for Barnstaple

Welcome to the RailFest Digital Heritage Trail for Barnstaple for Barnstaple! Did you know? The Barnstaple to Exeter railway line, celebrated during Rail Fest, was originally opened in 1854 and played a pivotal role in connecting North Devon with the rest of the country. Follow our digital trail to learn more about the railway in North Devon.

See all the pins on Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GvJhvxe9zhVbHjx18

2009 At Barnstaple Railway Station Main Building

Start: Barnstaple Junction Station & Café

Begin your journey at Barnstaple Junction Station & Café, where history and hospitality meet. Working closely with the café, we’ve ensured they can stamp your heritage trail, marking the start of your exploration through Rail Fest. Take a moment to peruse our information boards, thoughtfully crafted to highlight the fascinating history of the Barnstaple to Exeter line. Alternatively, indulge in other engaging setups that showcase the evolution and significance of our local railway. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or simply curious about our heritage, the Junction Station is the perfect starting point for a memorable day at Rail Fest.

Google Map Pin: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Hh8jNH1ZUT7NMVH37

Stop 1: Barnstaple Town Station Sign on the Strand

Experience history at the Barnstaple Town Station Sign on the Strand! Witness the unveiling of the new station sign, a symbol of our railway heritage. We invite you to capture this moment with your own photos and share in the excitement of this special occasion. We’re also collaborating with local businesses, like the Victorian Photo Company from Lynmouth, to set up a themed photo station. Immerse yourself in the Victorian era, the time when railways were first introduced, and create lasting memories against this iconic backdrop. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to blend past and present at Rail Fest!

Google Map Pin: https://maps.app.goo.gl/bn4nAWjZkYZ1T64a8https://maps.app.goo.gl/kvsUUypErru9ZTqy9

A picture of Barnstaple Library Next To The Castle Mound Geograph.org.uk 1883041

Stop 2: The Library

Visit The Library and embark on a journey through railway history! Get your heritage trail stamped at the café, engage in children’s crafts and activities designed to inspire young minds about railway history and innovation and explore our engaging displays highlighting the fascinating heritage of the Barnstaple to Exeter line. Dive into the stories and innovations that shaped our local railway, and don’t miss our other exciting setups designed to captivate visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about our railway’s legacy, The Library is a stop you won’t want to miss at Rail Fest.

Google Map Pin: https://maps.app.goo.gl/k1NoRyRT9GY49Ra56

Stops 3 & 4: Guildhall

Explore the Guildhall and discover two remarkable Railway Exhibitions hosted by NDRO, Athenaeum Library, and BTC. Spread across both floors, these exhibitions showcase the rich history and development of the Barnstaple to Exeter line. Immerse yourself in displays that highlight the technological advancements, cultural impact, and stories behind our local railway. Don’t forget to collect stamps at both stops to complete your heritage trail and fully experience the depth of Rail Fest. Whether you’re a railway enthusiast or simply curious about local history, the Guildhall exhibitions promise an enlightening and engaging visit.

Google Maps Pin: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GPgVJfjy2eGzYeBH9

Barnstaple's Pannier Market open from 9 till 4. Tuesday to Saturday

Stop 5: Pannier Market

Step into the bustling Pannier Market and immerse yourself in the world of trains! Explore stalls from various train organizations, where enthusiasts showcase their passion through captivating displays of personal train models. Don’t forget to collect another heritage trail stamp here, marking your journey through this vibrant hub of Rail Fest. Whether you’re a collector, a family looking for fun activities, or someone curious about trains, the Pannier Market promises an unforgettable experience for all!

Google Map Pin: https://maps.app.goo.gl/UtMTBRZ46bDWthun7

Thank you for exploring this digital heritage trail! For more information on upcoming events and activities, follow us on social media. Stay connected and continue to be a part of our community’s journey through history. We look forward to sharing more exciting updates with you soon.