Local Events in North Devon | The Royal & Fortescue Hotel

Plan a Memorable North Devon Break

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.

Here are some of the highlights of events happening in Barnstaple and North Devon to help you plan your trip.

Soup & Toastie £6

20 Jan - 15 Mar 2025

Enjoy a comforting and delicious lunch at The Royal & Fortescue Hotel with our soup and toastie deal just £6.

Valentine's Carvery Disco

14 Feb 2025

Spread the love this Valentine's Day with our 3 Course Carvery & disco. Plus, enjoy a glass of Prosecco on arrival, photobooth and Valentine's quiz.

Lentsherd (pronounced ‘Lanshard’) is an old Clovelly Shrove Tuesday custom. Historically the aim is to chase bad spirits away and drive the devil into the sea before Lent. This has been going on for centuries.

People at festival holding their hands in the air

Pigstock

17 May 2025, 11am - 10pm

Pigstock is a fun festival in Devon with great music, tasty food, and a friendly atmosphere. With its blend of great music, delicious food, and a welcoming community vibe, Pigstock is destined to be an unforgettable experience for all who attend.

Clovelly Seaweed Festival

25 May 2025, 10am - 5pm

The Clovelly Seaweed Festival is a unique celebration of coastal culture and culinary delights nestled in the quaint village of Clovelly, North Devon.

Bideford Bike Show

25 May 2025, 11am - 5pm

The biggest show of its kind in North Devon, the Bideford Bike Show is held from 11.00 – 5.00 pm on the last weekend of May.

Here for the music festival

6 - 8 Jun 2025

Nestled admits the countryside the festival grounds buzz with excitement, offering a vibrant tapestry of live performances and different genres.

GoldCoast Oceanfest

20 - 22 Jun 2025

If you could bottle a beachside festival and pour it out each year against the backdrop of a sun-drenched Atlantic, then the multi-award-winning GoldCoast Oceanfest might be just the brew to choose.

Kids Fest

22 Jun 2025, 10am - 4pm

Kids Fest at The Big Sheep promises an exciting extravaganza of fun and entertainment for the whole family.

Let's Rock

28 Jun 2025

Let’s Rock Festival is back this year with a dazzling lineup of iconic 80s and retro music acts, promising a fantastic day of nostalgia-fueled fun for all ages.

Bideford Soapbox Derby

6 Jul 2025, 11:30am - 5pm

This year's Soapbox Derby promises to be an exhilarating showcase of creativity and adrenaline-fueled excitement. As teams gear up to compete, the day is packed with anticipation.

The North Devon Show

6 Aug 2025

The North Devon Show returns for 2025 with the usual Devon blend of attractions, exhibitions, trade stands, crafts and food - celebrating all things rural. It's the premier agricultural event in the region and has something for everyone.

August Bank Holiday Summer Music Festival

22 - 23 Aug 2025

Make it a bank holiday remember with The Big Sheep's Summer Time Music Festival. Offering a lively and fun-filled atmosphere that’s sure to become a highlight of your summer calendar.

Clovelly's Gig Regatta

23 Aug 2025

Clovelly's Gig Regatta is a vibrant annual event held in the picturesque village of Clovelly. The Gig Regatta celebrates Devon's best teams going head to head in a fun but intense day of competition.

Lobster and Crab Fest

31 Aug 2025, 10am - 5pm

This summer, Clovelly invites you to its delightful Crab and Lobster Festival, a vibrant celebration in aid of the National Lobster Hatchery. This unique event brings together seafood lovers and conservation enthusiasts in the picturesque setting of this historic fishing village.

Clovelly Herring Festival

16 Nov 2025, 10am - 3pm

The annual Clovelly Herring Festival consistently takes place during the month of November. This particular time of the year holds special significance for our historic village as we gather to commemorate the arrival of the revered "Silver Darlings," more commonly recognized as Herring.

More from The Royal & Fortescue Hotel

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.

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.

Accommodation

With 48 luxury rooms, most being recently refurbished with a fresh contemporary style, quality furnishings and all the little touches that make a difference. We are the perfect base for your break, set in the town centre of Barnstaple our rooms create warmth and charm that you will look forward to returning to after a busy day exploring.

Sunset Over River Taw in Barnstaple North Devon

Offers & Breaks

Whether it's a weekend escape, family holiday, or a few days of indulgence - we'll have an offer to suit everyone. From late availability to packaged breaks, you'll find our best available offers here. Or check our online booking engine if you have other dates in mind.

Local Events