Salcombe Shops
Salcombe is a small yet perfectly formed paradise for shopaholics. In particular, this charming South Devon town is the...
There is an abundance of things to do in Dartmouth with something to entertain everyone. Regardless of whether you’re an avid shopaholic, history buff or outdoor enthusiast this naval harbour town is the perfect blend of both culture and natural beauty.
Our locally based team has curated a list of the best activities and attractions to enjoy when visiting the historic harbour town of Dartmouth.
Use our quick links below to navigate the content, or read on for our overview on the best things to do in Dartmouth…
For over 600 years, Dartmouth Castle kept the town safe from the envious eyes of pirates, privateers and foreign navies. In the late 15th century, a 250m iron chain was raised between Kingswear Castle and Dartmouth to further bolster the town’s defences. These days however, the role of Dartmouth Castle is to attract visitors to the town rather than keep them at bay.
Situated at the mouth of the River Dart, Sugary Cove is a remote, quiet beach consisting of shingle, rocks and crystal clear water. Overlooked by Dartmouth Castle, the beach is never busy with typical ‘beach-goers’ but you will find the sea peppered with swimmers and the occasional seal.
There are a wealth of beaches within easy reach of Dartmouth, ranging from quiet secluded coves such as Sugary Cove, to long expanses of golden sands and stunning shingle beaches. Just a few of our favourites include:
South Devon is widely reputed for its variety of beaches. Read out comprehensive South Devon Beach Bible for the full lowdown.
With the town’s prime waterside location, it is no surprise that some of the most popular things to do in Dartmouth involve the water. For those who want to explore the River Dart, you are spoilt for choice…
The Dartmouth Paddle Steamer is the last remaining coal-fired paddle steamer in the UK today. Enjoy a day trip from Dartmouth and discover the wonders of the lower reaches of the Dart.
The Greenway Ferry takes you on a 30-minute cruise to Greenway Quay, the entrance to the former estate of the late Dame Agatha Christie. Greenway House and estate is now managed by the National Trust.
Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company provides a great day out which begins in Dartmouth and also takes in Paignton and Totnes, giving you the chance to see the area by ferry, steam train and bus.
Perhaps you’d rather be in charge of your own cruise? In which case, consider hiring a vessel from Dartmouth Boat Hire Company for a few hours, a morning or afternoon, or even a full day.
For more inspiration on things to do in Dartmouth that utilise the water, including kayaking in Dartmouth and paddle boarding in Dartmouth, read our blog on 12 ways to enjoy the River Dart.
No list of things to do in Dartmouth would be complete without a recommendation to pick up a portion of freshly prepared fish and chips. And as you would expect, there are several excellent places to choose from. However two of our firm favourites are Dartmouth Rockfish and the Wheelhouse Takeaway.
At Coast & Country Cottages it’s no secret that we love food, and so we have carefully curated our top 12 restaurants in Dartmouth to share with you.
Dartmouth and the surrounding area is a walker’s paradise. From challenging hikes to short, gentle strolls you are never short of a route to navigate.
One walk we particularly recommend is from Dartmouth Castle to Gallants Bower. The views are incredible, and best of all it can also be extended through Little Dartmouth, making it a longer hike if you’d like something more strenuous. If you’re feeling up to it, continue towards Stoke Fleming and Blackpool Sands.
At Coast & Country Cottages we love walking, so be sure to read our comprehensive Dartmouth walks guide.
If you enjoy shopping, you’ll love Dartmouth. The town combines local independent stores and well-known coastal chains, providing a fabulous selection of high-quality clothing and jewellery, original art and ornaments.
Some of our favourite shops (in our humble opinion!) include:
If you’re looking for kids’ activities in Dartmouth, Woodlands Family Theme Park suits all weather eventualities. Situated just three miles from the town centre, Woodlands is the largest family theme park in Devon, and boasts facilities for children and adults of all ages.
Just a short drive from Dartmouth town centre is the Dartmouth Hotel, Golf and Spa, a picturesque golfing venue in the rolling hills of the South Hams. Boasting two golf courses, and featured in Golf Monthly magazine ‘Top 100 hidden gems in Great Britain’, the venue is known as one of the most challenging courses in the South West.
Whilst many of the best activities in Dartmouth involve making the most of the great outdoors, there are also things to do if you simply wish to relax and unwind. Indulge in some ‘me time’ during your next trip to Dartmouth and visit either The Dartmouth Hotel, Golf and Spa or the Dart Marina Hotel Spa for a luxurious break.
Want to know where the best crabbing spot is? Head to the embankment or Dartmouth Castle ferry steps to drop your line. Most shops in Dartmouth sell all the elements needed for catching mighty-clawed crustaceans, so don’t worry if you leave your crabbing line, bucket or bait at home.
Our locally based team have put together a guide to crabbing in South Devon, be sure to read it for all our tips and tricks!
Going for afternoon tea can be as much a treat for the eyes as it is for the stomach, with decadent layers of cakes and sandwiches delicately presented with tea, champagne, or even gin and tonic! Add in the backdrop of the River Dart, and we can see why going for afternoon tea is one of the most popular things to do in Dartmouth. Here are some of the best spots:
Nestled along the banks of the River Dart lies the charming village of Dittisham. A hidden gem, Dittisham is surrounded by rolling South Devon green fields and the village itself is steeped in history. Needless to say, its waterside location makes for the perfect playground for keen crabbers, paddle boarders and sailors. The Ferry Boat Inn, The Red Lion and the Anchorstone Café are popular Dittisham pubs well worth a visit.
With so many things to do in Dartmouth, it comes as no surprise that you will want to visit!
At Coast & Country Cottages, we have over 120 self-catering holiday homes in and around Dartmouth. From luxury apartments on the River Dart, to family-family cottages near to the Dartmouth’s most popular attractions, there is a property in our portfolio to suit everyone.
We also have a number of dog-friendly cottages in Dartmouth, so the whole family can be involved in the fun!
I’ve been a member of the South West regional team since 2015, and now manage a team in our Salcombe office. There are so ma...
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