Atlantic Highway: Barnstaple to Newquay
Follow the Atlantic Highway corridor south-west from Barnstaple through north Devon and Cornwall. The A39 is often inland: beaches and headlands are selected stops rather than a promise of continuous ocean views.
Barnstaple to Newquay · 86 miles · 139 minutes estimated driving · Point-to-point
Photo: @ Ian S / Geograph
Highlights along the way
Bude
A worthwhile seaside break off the inland trunk-road corridor.
North Cornwall
The route links the open coastal hinterland with market towns before the Newquay approach.
Before you set off
Allow a full touring day with breaks. Summer congestion and narrow town approaches add time; coastal walks and beach parking are separate. Check current road closures and conditions before travel. Driving time is an estimate without stops or live traffic. Through-road points are not parking reservations; named attraction visits may require a separate walk, detour or booking.