Short answer: The free museum's taxidermy section holds toddlers well, the Pannier Market is covered and flat, and the Tarka Trail is perfect buggy-nap territory. The Muddiford Inn just north of town has a children's play area and opens at 7.30.
The Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon is free, by the Long Bridge, and its taxidermy section is well liked by small children — animals up close, behind glass, at eye level. There is a Victorian-style tea room. Closed Sundays.
A huge covered Victorian hall, flat and wheelchair accessible, which means buggy friendly. Tuesday to Saturday, with independent stalls and food. Indoors when it rains.
Starts in Barnstaple — flat, paved and traffic-free. The ideal walk to get a toddler to sleep in the buggy, and you turn round whenever you like.
The Muddiford Inn & Farm Shop, north of town, has a children's play area and a good beer garden, and opens at 7.30 in the morning — useful for an early riser. Closed Mondays. Tarko Lounge in the centre is open nine till late with plenty of space.
Barnstaple is the end of the Tarka Line from Exeter. A train with a toddler is often easier than a car seat and a parking search.
Air Extreme Trampoline Park is aimed at older children — ask about toddler sessions before booking.
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