Blackawton | South Devon Village Guide

Blackawton is a rural village that is nestled amongst countryside fields in the very heart of South Devon’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Situated just a few miles from Start Bay, and around five miles from the bustling harbour town of Dartmouth, the village is surrounded by working farms and is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a secluded country bolthole with easy access to the rest of South Devon. A strong sense of community underpins the village, so upon your visit expect to find a thriving village hall, active church, primary school, playpark, pub and even a volunteer-supported shop and Post Office. The events schedule is active, most notably because the village is home to the world-famous International Festival of Wormcharming, but also on a more local level, the annual bonfire night fireworks display is dubbed as one of the best in the area. Even in the height of summer, when South Devon is at its busiest, Blackawton provides a quiet and tranquil escape that is enveloped by a consistently calm and relaxed atmosphere.

Looking for something in particular? Use our quick links below to navigate the content, or read on for our comprehensive guide to Blackawton village in South Devon…

– The George Inn Blackawton
– Blackawton Church
– Blackawton Village Hall
– Blackawton Community Shop and Post Office
– Blackawton Playpark
– International Festival of Wormcharming
– Things to do near Blackawton
– Where is Blackawton?
– Holiday cottages in Blackawton

The George Inn Blackawton

The George Inn is a family-run pub in the centre of the village, which prides itself on being the heart and soul of Blackawton’s vibrant community, and as such, is popular with both locals and visitors alike. Situated adjacent to the church, this dog-friendly inn backs onto beautiful, rolling South Hams countryside. In the summer months enjoy the outdoor garden, and when it is a little cooler warm up inside and indulge in home cooked food and real ales. The menu emphasises sustainable, seasonal and local Devon produce and the George Inn even runs its own annual beer festival in early May every year. Food service times vary, depending upon the day, so it is always worth checking their website, their Facebook page or calling the pub ahead of your visit to avoid disappointment. As you would expect, booking is strongly advised.

Blackawton Church

In the centre of the village on Main Street, the 14th century Parish Church of St Michael completes the picture-postcard beauty of Blackawton. You can find out more about the church and the services held there on the Church of England website – the congregation is always warm and welcoming.

Blackawton Village Hall

The village hall in Blackawton is very well equipped for parties and other social functions, and boasts state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment and disco lighting, a raised stage area and dressing rooms for performances. Fully accessible, you can park up to 30 cars outside the village hall, so it’s perfect should you want to host a larger celebration. The Blackawton Community website is the best place to check for availability and charges, and you will also find details of how to email the hall master.

Blackawton Community Shop and Post Office

Located on the village’s main street, next to the pub, the Blackawton Community Shop and Post Office is run by an incredible team of volunteers, and the shop itself stocks a fantastic range of groceries including locally sourced fresh meats, artisan breads, dairy products, fresh fruit and vegetables. There is also a wealth of confectionery, greetings cards, pastries and cakes, wine, beer and spirits, not forgetting household items such as washing up liquid – they really do have it all covered. And as if that extensive list wasn’t enough, there is even a cosy cafê corner, so be sure to indulge in a fresh coffee or sumptuous hot chocolate. The shop is open Monday to Friday, from 8am to 6pm, and at the weekend, on Saturdays it’s open from 9am to 1pm, and on Sundays from 10am until noon. The Post Office is open 9am – 1pm Monday through until Saturday. For the most frequently updated information, be sure to follow their Facebook page.

Blackawton Playpark

Immaculately maintained, Blackawton is home to an enviable children’s play area, enjoying a multi-purpose tarmac area with extensive play equipment, tennis court, football area and meadow. It’s the perfect environment for young children who need to burn off a little excess energy, and best of all, it’s large and often uncrowded so children have free reign to roam and explore. It comes as no surprise that the village is extremely proud of this beautiful green and pleasant land.

International Festival of Wormcharming

Blackawton has a couple of claims to fame, one of which has to be the International Festival of Wormcharming, which involves a day packed with fun activities such as the crowning of the May Princess, Morris dancing and a parade through the village, fancy dress competition, dog show, live music, five-a-side football, and of course… a worm charming competition! The event takes place in May every year, and specific dates and times are posted on the Blackawton International Festival of Wormcharming website as soon as they’re announced. Read our blog post on the International Festival of Wormcharming for the full lowdown.

Things to do near Blackawton

Whilst the village of Blackawton may appear small and secluded, don’t be deceived because you won’t find yourself short of things to do. For outdoor enthusiasts, spend your time hiking the public footpaths with sweeping views over Start Bay, spotting the local wildlife and enjoying the nearby beaches of Blackpool Sands and Slapton Sands. There are also various quintessential South Devon villages nearby which are perfect for exploring, such as East Allington, Strete and Stoke Fleming. For those not feeling quite so active, don’t worry, because there’s an abundance of alternative pastimes to enjoy nearby…

Day trips from Blackawton

Just a short drive from the village of Blackawton you will find a wealth of activities to enjoy. For those in search of a little luxury, the sumptuous Dartmouth Spa, which is part of the Best Western Dartmouth Hotel Golf and Spa, is open to day guests, so be sure to take advantage of the swimming, sauna and steam room facilities. Afterwards, why not have a gentle potter in the bustling harbour town of Dartmouth – you will find plenty of things to do in Dartmouth, including one of the most popular family attractions in the South West, Woodlands Theme Park. Alternatively, visit the nearby riverside village of Dittisham where you can walk a stretch of The Dart Valley Trail, take sailing lessons or perhaps rent a kayak or paddleboard. From here you could also take the water taxi to the National Trust Property Greenway, Agatha Christie’s former holiday home. Just a 30 minute drive away you could try surfing at Bantham Beach, the list really is exhaustive. The region of South Devon is the ultimate playground, regardless of age, taste, rain or shine, so take some time to read our comprehensive round-up on Things to do in South Devon for even more inspiration.

Where is Blackawton?

Blackawton is located just six miles west of Dartmouth, and ten miles from the market town of Totnes, nestled in the rolling South Devon countryside. Just a short distance from the Dartmoor National Park, and the stunning South Devon coastline, it’s the perfect bolthole if you’re looking to slow down and retreat into village life. Despite its rural location, Blackawton is perfectly situated for exploring the stunning surroundings South Devon has to offer.

Parking in Blackawton

The village of Blackawton is on the smaller side, and as you would expect, parking can be a bit of a squeeze. There is no main village car park, but you will find several parking spaces along the main village road. If you do decide to park residentially, try to be mindful of others and always park with respect.

Holiday cottages in Blackawton

Blackawton and the surrounding hamlets and villages are perfectly placed to enjoy a tranquil South Devon escape. Within easy reach of Dartmouth and the stunning beaches of Start Bay, it offers a delightful balance between seclusion and convenience, with a wealth of picturesque walks, welcoming local pubs and much, much more on your doorstep. At Coast & Country Cottages we boast an enviable collection of self catering holiday cottages in Blackawton, including country escapes nestled within rolling green hills, luxury properties, family friendly boltholes, and of course dog friendly properties too. Browse our Blackawton holiday cottages on our website, and if you can’t find something to suit then call our friendly team who will help you to find something perfect.

Book your holiday cottage in Blackawton today

Terrace Suite

Situated in the rolling countryside on the outskirts of Blackawton, Terrace Suite is an elegant ground-floor terrace apartment providing accommodation for a family or group of four. Featuring original fittings, and nestled within luscious grounds, it is part of the beautiful manor house Sheplegh Court, and is the ultimate country escape

Clover and Daisy

Clover and Daisy are spacious two-storey barn conversions in the hamlet of Eastdown, just a few miles from Blackawton and a short drive from Dartmouth and Start Bay. They’re both tastefully decorated down to their lovely decked terrace areas with picturesque rural views. With three bedrooms, Clover offers tasteful accommodation for up to six guests, making it ideal for family holidays with teenagers (children under 5 are exempt) or for group getaways, or alternatively two couples. Daisy, with two bedrooms, sleeps up to five. Both of these properties can be booked together for a larger family break.

Hillfield Village

Two miles from Blackawton, Hillfield Village is a stunning development of luxury properties that range from romantic boltholes to large holiday cottages. There’s an all-weather tennis court and children’s play area within this leafy, secluded development which is free for all guests to use. Take a look at all of our Hillfield Village properties, or take a read of our complete Hillfield Village guide.

Book your holiday cottage in Blackawton today