Short answer: The Muddiford Inn & Farm Shop, just north of town, has a children's play area and a good beer garden, and opens at 7.30 in the morning. Closed Mondays. In town, Tarko Lounge has plenty of room.
A word on expectations. Devon pubs rarely have playgrounds — old buildings, small sites. What most have is a garden, a beach or a park nearby. Where a pub genuinely has a play area, it says so below.
A country pub and farm shop north of town with a good beer garden and a children's play area, open from 7.30 in the morning. Well regarded for Sunday lunch. Closed Mondays.
An all-day café bar in the centre, open nine till late, with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating and a wide menu. Space for a buggy.
The best dinner in Barnstaple. The bar downstairs is buzzy; the covered roof terrace upstairs is much calmer and the better choice with children.
Book if you are more than four, and always for Sunday lunch.
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