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Barnstaple has received many other prestigious awards for its floral displays, in fact more than any other town in the UK, including 'Entente Florale' , 'Nations' and 'World in Bloom' competitions. 
Barnstaple is the commercial centre of the region, combining sophisticated shopping with the bustling atmosphere of markets and speciality shops. The modern Green Lanes Shopping Centre compliments the traditional Pannier and Craft Markets held since 1855 in the Pannier Market Hall. Around every corner there are pretty little alleys and courtyards, as well as the unusual Butchers Row, a line of open fronted shops selling speciality foods from meat and fish to laver and traditional clotted cream.
The town centre is wheelchair friendly with the main street pedestrianised during shopping hours and with drop down kerbs enabling easy access. Many shops have level access with wide entrances and the main car parks have designated disabled driver parking spaces. There is also a shopmobility centre located near the Bus Station which provides the loan of manual and powered wheelchairs and has a volunteer escort service.
The North Devon Leisure Centre offers a swimming pool, sports hall, squash courts, fully equipped gym and much more. Nearby the North Devon Karting Centre has 2 circuits of 200m and 400m and welcomes beginners and experts. The Portmore Golf Park just outside Barnstaple has two 9 hole courses and an undercover driving range. For those who enjoy ten pin bowling, the Lets Go Superbowl can provide great family fun. Rock Park by the River Taw has tennis courts, bowling greens, play area, football and cricket pitches. Finally, the Queens Theatre provides year round entertainment including concerts, shows and plays.
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