Barnstaple used to be the junction of four lines, to Exeter, Taunton, Ilfracombe & Torrington and had steam depot with own allocation (72E, later 83F). Now the end of a forty mile siding, known as the "Tarka Line", from Exeter. Trains approximately hourly on weekdays. Six trains on Sundays. Now usually worked by 142s or 143s, but sometimes 150s or 153s. There are no longer any operational sidings or run-round facilities at Barnstaple. Trains cross at Eggesford and/or Crediton.
Don't bother to visit unless:-
a) You wish to "bash" the branch.
b) You know there is something you wish to see on the branch.
c) You are travelling by train to/from Barnstaple.
The station is away from the town centre. A cafe has recently been opened in the house in which the the station master used to live (a long time ago when there was such a being). This is appropriately called "Station Master's" and is accessed through the booking office/waiting room. Serving times are 07:00 to 14:45 Monday to Saturday. No corner shops nearby, but there is a Tesco adjacent to the station, built roughly were the steam shed used to be. It has a cafe, but as yet I have not tested it myself.