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Kingston

You will find the village of Kingston snuggled amongst countryside fields in the very heart of South Devon’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Just one mile from the beach of Wonwell and the Erme Estuary, the village is surrounded by working farms, and is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a secluded bolthole with easy access to the playground that is South Devon. A strong sense of community envelopes the village, so expect to find fresh eggs for sale on the roadside, a thriving village hall, a fire station run entirely by volunteers and a lively pub. What’s more, there are conservation areas and walking routes to enjoy too! Even in the height of the summer, there is a calm, relaxed feel to the village, where thatched cottages, agapanthus and hydrangeas pepper the narrow country lanes.

Where is Kingston?

Kingston is located just three miles south west of Modbury, and one mile from the mouth of the River Erme. Nestled between 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, Kingston is perfectly situated for exploring the stunning surroundings South Devon has to offer.

Things to do in Kingston

Whilst the village of Kingston may appear small and secluded, don’t be deceived, you won’t find yourself short of things to do. For outdoor enthusiasts, spend your time hiking a selection of walking trails, spotting local wildlife, and enjoying the nearby beaches of Wonwell and Westcombe. For those not feeling quite so active, don’t worry, there’s a wealth of alternative (and equally as rewarding!) pastimes to enjoy.

Kingston flowers in bloom

Walking routes in Kingston

Kingston is well known for its variety of walking routes, most of which enjoy starting points from the village itself. The walks direct from the village boast a cross section of expansive coastal views, dramatic cliffs, secluded estuary, and rich farmland. One of our favourite circular walks starts from the village pub, The Dolphin Inn, perfect for a pre walk refreshment, and leads a path that explores the many faces of South Devon. A strenuous but rewarding walk, this six mile hike is well worth the effort, especially when you reach the secluded beach of Wonwell (be sure to pack your swimmers!). A more detailed route plan for this walk can be found here, on the South Devon Area of Natural Beauty website. Further information regarding both routes and maps can be found on the Kingston Parish Council website.

At Coast and Country Cottages we love walking, so much so, that we’ve created a comprehensive walking guide to South Devon. Be sure to check out the walking route that passes through Ringmore towards Ayrmer Cove. For further inspiration, download our walking guide.

Kingston Village Hall 

Otherwise known as ‘The Reading Room’, the village hall is an integral part of the community, and you will find a series of popular events held throughout the year. Be sure to check the notice board for up and coming activities, and pop into the weekly market held every Tuesday, for lashings of coffee and cake!

Kingston Village Hall

Kingston Recreation Ground

Recently re-developed, Kingston boasts an enviable children’s play area. Enjoying a multi-purpose tarmac area with pre erected nets, a football field, skateboarding ramps, a fenced play area for younger children, a picnic area, log cabin and adventure trails it comes as no surprise that the village is extremely proud of this public space. Best of all, it’s both large and uncrowded, meaning little (and big!) people often have free reign over the play equipment. With onsite parking too, this is a perfect spot to take the children when they need to burn off a little excess energy.

Kingston recreation ground

The Dolphin Inn, Kingston

The village pub, The Dolphin Inn is a popular 16th Century country pub, and is popular with both locals and visitors alike. In the summer months, enjoy the large outdoor garden, and when it is a little cooler, warm up in-front of the inglenook fireplace. Indulge in home cooked food and real ales, and be sure to book a table in advance.

Dolphin Inn Kingston

Beaches near Kingston

Wonwell Beach

Wonwell Beach, Kingston

Accessible by both car and foot, Wonwell Beach is just a short distance from the village. Situated on the Erme Estuary, a thriving Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it is renowned for being a little off the beaten track, and is a fantastic spot if you’re looking to escape the summer holiday crowds. The beach is dog-friendly year round, and at low tide enjoys a large sandy expanse, and is perfect for building sandcastles, sunbathing and swimming. For those with restless legs, walks up the estuary are beautiful, and if the tides allow, you can wade over to Mothecombe Beach, and perhaps enjoy a refreshment at the Schoolhouse Cafe. If you do decide to drive down to the beach, be sure to arrive early as there are limited roadside parking spots, and these get snapped up quickly.

Click here to read our full guide to Wonwell Beach.

In the region of South Devon, we boast some of the best beaches in the country, and have compiled a South Devon Beach Bible to allow you to earmark your must-visit spots. Some of our favourite beaches within close proximity to Kingston include:

Days trips from Kingston

Just a short drive from the village of Kingston you will find a wealth of activities to enjoy. Fishing trips can be arranged from the Erme Estuary, and within a few miles of Kingston are three popular golf courses. Sailing lessons are offered in the village of Noss Mayo, and you can enjoy surfing at Bigbury and Bantham. For the full lowdown, read our comprehensive round-up on Things to do in South Devon.

Parking in Kingston

Due to the village being a little on the smaller size, parking can sometimes be a bit of a squeeze. Whilst there is no main village car park, you will find several spaces outside the church adjacent to the village hall, and a few further spaces at the recreation ground. If you do decide to park residentially, try to be mindful that the residents don’t have much parking space either, so do so with respect.

How to get to Kingston

Getting to Kingston from Kingsbridge
Kingston is just under 10 miles from Kingsbridge, and we recommend the following route:

  • Head north-west on Fore Street towards Duncombe St
  • Turn left onto Plymouth Road
  • At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Plymouth Road A379
  • At the next roundabout, take the 1st exit and stay on the A379
  • At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit and stay on the A379
  • After around four miles, turn left onto B3392, driving down into the village itself (it is rather windy and overgrown, but have faith!)

Getting to Kingston from Dartmouth
Kingston is around 20 miles from Dartmouth, and we recommend the following route:

  • Head northeast towards North Embankment B3205
  • Continue onto North Embankment, it will turn left and become A379
  • At the roundabout take the 2nd exit onto Townstal Road, A3122
  • At the next roundabout take the 2nd exit to keep on A3122
  • After six miles, turn left onto A381 for half a mile
  • Turn left onto Short Lane
  • Turn left for 4.5 miles
  • Turn left onto B3196
  • Continue straight for 3 miles
  • Continue onto B3392, driving down into the village (it is rather windy and overgrown, but have faith!)

Holiday cottages in Kingston

Great Torr Barn
Sleeps 10
Lower Great Torr, Kingston
Great Torr Barn, located in the heart of Kingston itself, is a large reverse level barn, boasting a popular indoor private swimming pool. Sleeping up to ten guests, this is the perfect bolthole for large families, or groups of friends.

Discover more about Great Torr Barn here

Lower Great Torr
Sleeps 6
Easter in South Devon - Lower Great Torr, Kingston
Lower Great Torr is situated on the outskirts of Kingston, and enjoys a rural location, just a short walk from Wonwell Beach and the Flete Estate. This period farmhouse has been recently refurbished and is the pinnacle of a quintessential countryside retreat.

Discover more about Lower Great Torr here



We have a range of properties near Kingston, so why not take a look at our collection of stunning holiday homes on our website?