News

Keep up-to-date with The Royal & Fortescue Hotel's latest news.

Be inspired for your next hotel break in Barnstaple, North Devon. Use our blogs as a guide to finding out more about the must-sees, hidden treasures and local news.

Clovelly harbour

Day Trips in North Devon

Published on7 April 2025
Discover North Devon's charm with day trips from The Royal & Fortescue Hotel. From Clovelly's cobbled streets to Exmoor's wilderness, explore diverse towns and villages nearby.
Find Out More
Marwood Hill Gardens North Devon

Must Visit Gardens in Devon

Published on14 March 2025
Devon boasts some of England's most magnificent gardens, each steeped in history and showcasing a diverse array of plant species.
Find Out More
Kids at RHS Rosemoor

What's on This February Half Term

Published on5 February 2025
From wildlife encounters and beachside walks to fun-filled attractions and local festivities, discover the best things to do this half-term while staying at The Royal & Fortescue Hotel in the heart of Barnstaple.
Find Out More
Brend Collection website on laptop and iphone

Why to book early at a Brend Hotel

Published on13 December 2024
Why wait when it comes to planning an escape to Devon & Cornwall? Booking early at a Brend Collection hotel is a decision you won’t regret.
Find Out More
Presents held by doorman

Christmas Gift Guide

Published on1 December 2024
At the Brend Collection, we've got your Christmas shopping all wrapped up! Whether you're searching for the perfect gift or want to spread holiday cheer with a thoughtful surprise, let the Brend Collection be your version of Santa's little helper with our monetary and experience gift vouchers.
Find Out More
Festive shop front in Barnstaple

Festive things to do in North Devon

Published on1 November 2024
Discover the charm of North Devon during the festive season with these five delightful activities.
Find Out More
Two dogs running on the beach

We're Now Dog Friendly!

Published on24 September 2024
The Royal & Fortescue Hotel is now dog-friendly! Enjoy a stay in Barnstaple with your furry friend, featuring dog-friendly rooms, treats, and nearby scenic walks.
Find Out More
Yas shaking cocktail at Bar62

Meet Mixologist Superstar - Yas!

Published on28 August 2024
Meet Yas, a shining star at The Royal & Fortescue and 62 The Bank, who is putting her exceptional skills and dedication on display every day.
Find Out More
Boats on the Beach at Instow North Devon

Exploring North Devon

Published on3 May 2024
Nestled along the rugged coastline of South West England lies North Devon, waiting to be explored. With its picturesque villages, stunning beaches and diverse landscapes, North Devon offers an unforgettable adventure for travellers seeking natural beauty and outdoor escapades.
Find Out More
62 The bank team holding rosette

62 The Bank is awarded AA Rosette

Published on20 December 2023
We’re thrilled to announce that for the first time in its long history as Barnstaple’s bustling bistro, 62 The Bank has been awarded an AA Rosette for culinary excellence following a recent inspection.
Find Out More
Woolacombe Beach North Devon

Taking Care of the World Around Us

Published on25 July 2023
Just like you, we love our cosy corner of the world that we call home and we are doing everything we can to ever improve it, not just for our benefit but also for generations to come.
Find Out More
someone surfing alone on a wave

North Devon is a world Surfing Reserve

Published on20 July 2023
Have you heard? North Devon has become the 12th location from around the globe to be selected as a World Surfing Reserve
Find Out More
Hand holding EV Charger

EV Chargers

Published on20 July 2023
Download the app, create your account, add your payment type, scan the QR code and get charging, it’s as simple as that.
Find Out More
Brend Collection website on laptop and iphone

Introducing the Brend Collection

Published on20 July 2023
We’ve been working hard behind the scenes on a fresh new brand appearance for Brend Hotels. Alongside this, we’ve created a new group website that reflects everything that we aspire to become as we move forward into an exciting future.
Find Out More
best price guaranteed

Why is it best to book direct?

Published on20 January 2022
We at The Royal And Fortescue Hotel are known for doing the best we can for our guests, this includes being honest and open about our prices. We use a Best Price Guaranteed policy to show that our prices are accurate and as low as possible - if you ever manage to find a cheaper deal elsewhere, we will ensure that this would be price matched with us.
Find Out More
Woolacombe Beach North Devon

The Best Things To Do in Winter

Published on21 October 2020
Amazing experiences and special memories aren't just for the summertime. Winter in North Devon is wild and invigorating and we've picked the very best things for you to do during the colder months.
Find Out More

More from The Royal & Fortescue Hotel

crowd at a music festival
What's on Locally

Plan an even more memorable stay with the help of our diary of local events in the area, from Bonfire nights at The Big Sheep to beach side festivals North Devon has it all.

Find out more
Bikes Leaning on Wall with a View Over the Estuary at Instow North Devon
Things To Do

There are great activities available close to the Royal & Fortescue Hotel to make your stay even more memorable, enjoy family fun at The Big Sheep, try something new with paddleboarding or coasteering around the North Devon coast or take a step back in time at Arlington Court.

Find out more
foyer at royal and fortescue
About Us

Bang in the centre of Barnstaple, the Royal & Fortescue Hotel is a gem, ideally located for exploring Barnstaple and the surrounding North Devon area. You are just a few steps away from tempting designer shops, the ancient pannier market and the theatre.

Find out more
Afternoon Tea in RF Lounge & Bar
Gift Vouchers

Whether it’s award-winning dining with a stunning view, a family holiday by the sea or a romantic break for two, everyone has their own idea of a perfect treat. That's why a gift voucher for Brend Collection is the perfect choice for any occasion.

Find out more

Subscribe to our mailing list and never miss another update

From being the first to know about our special offers to tempting cocktail recipes and the best Devon adventures - stay up to date with the latest news and offers when you join our mailing list.