Bigbury-on-Sea | South Devon Beach Bible
The village of Bigbury-on-Sea is situated on South Devon’s west coast, overlooking Bigbury Bay, South Devon’s largest sandy beach,...
Exploring the River Dart is one of our favourite things to do in South Devon, at any time of year. An intricate waterway punctuated with chocolate box villages, hidden creeks, waterside eateries and even a vineyard, the secrets of the River Dart are just waiting to be discovered. Whether you are sailing, swimming or paddleboarding, an abundance of wildlife can be seen both in the water and on the riverbank. What’s more, the walking opportunities around the river are varied and plentiful.
It comes as no surprise to us that the River Dart is regarded as one of the most enjoyable rivers in the country. Regardless of where or how you choose to navigate it, you will find both adults and children alike experiencing its magic.
Use the quick links below to explore our frequently asked questions, or read on for a comprehensive guide to the River Dart.
The River Dart journeys from its source high on Dartmoor towards the South Devon coastline, ending in Dartmouth. The river meanders through countless picturesque spots, including the popular holiday destinations of Tuckenhay, Stoke Gabriel, Dittisham, Kingswear, Totnes and Dartmouth. This stunning waterway is famous for fast-flowing rapids and levels that rise and fall without warning on Dartmoor, and its contrasting gentle stretches towards the coast.
From the top of Dartmoor, the River Dart flows for 75 kilometres (47 miles) towards the sea at Dartmouth. The River Dart is tidal as far up as Totnes Weir.
Whether you are looking to cross the River Dart on foot or with your car, there are two fantastic options. There’s both a Higher Ferry and a Lower Ferry, which cross the Dart from Dartmouth to Kingswear and vice versa. Saving a 50 minute journey by road, this is an asset to both locals and visitors alike.
The trip across the water takes around 5 minutes aboard the ferry, and this is a great way to cross the water. Whether it be for a walk on the river bank opposite, or to explore further afield along the River Dart, we would highly recommend this option!
Whichever your preference, kayaking or canoeing along the River Dart is an unforgettable experience – you may even find friendly seals poking their heads out of the water to say hello, if you’re lucky!
Venture out on your own, or book an organised excursion with a local company who will provide equipment and a professional guide. Ideal for families or groups of friends, this is a great way to experience the best places on the river safely, without missing any of the highlights! Local equipment providers include Totnes Kayaks, Canoe Adventures and AS Watersports.
Read our guide on kayaking in South Devon for more kayak and canoe hire companies, and our favourite places to visit from the water.
Combine the independence of paddleboarding and wild swimming with the relaxing nature of a river cruise, and hire a small pleasure boat to explore the River Dart. Dartmouth Boat Hire offers a range of vessels, as does Dittisham Boats based a little way upriver on Dittisham Quay.
The operators at Dartmouth Boat Hire estimate a one-way journey time of 30 minutes to Dittisham, 90 minutes to Sharpham and two hours all the way to medieval Totnes. A trip to Dartmouth Castle at the mouth of the estuary is also around half an hour.
Gliding through the still waters of the River Dart on a stand up paddleboard is the perfect way to enjoy the breadth of scenery and wildlife on offer. Watch as herons and egrets dash along the river banks looking for food, and keep an eye for colourful kingfishers catching small fish within the estuary creeks.
Read our guide to stand up paddleboarding in South Devon, including information on the best types of board for your ability, SUP hire, paddleboarding tuition and more.
The River Dart is well known as a great place for wild swimming, which is permitted year-round.
The Outdoor Swimming Society’s Director, Kari Furre, lives in South Devon and told the Guardian newspaper that her favourite wild swimming spot was just by Totnes.
Read our blog on wild swimming spots in South Devon for insider information on the best places to visit.
If you’re a strong, experienced swimmer you’ll love the variety provided here, with some sections famed for their tranquillity and others renowned for their white water. Popular spots include Spitchwick Common, Bellpool Island, Dartmeet and Dittisham.
We would recommend always researching the spot you plan to swim in, to ensure it is safe and suitable. As regular wild swimmers will know, once you have chosen your spot and ventured into the river, it is essential that you remain vigilant for unseen dangers. These include fast currents and hidden objects, poor water quality and cold-water shock.
Why not join a local wild swimming group or check a wild swimming app, for further hints and tips on safely enjoying swimming in the River Dart.
When it comes to choosing a trail for a scenic South Devon walk, many people head straight for the South West Coast Path without a second thought, but there are lots of other equally impressive routes to explore.
The Dart Valley Trail connects Kingswear through Greenway to Totnes, and can also take you to Totnes from Dartmouth through Dittisham. The views are truly spectacular, stretching across to Torbay on a clear day, and showing acres of wooded banks and sparkling waters of the River Dart.
Here are our top three walks along the River Dart:
The River Dart isn’t just popular with humans – it is well loved by wildlife and animals too. Harbour porpoises, seals and dolphins are frequently spotted. The same applies to fish, with stretches of the river favoured by anglers in search of sea trout, brown trout and salmon, with plenty of other species also catchable from Dartmouth harbour.
See our blog on fishing holidays in South Devon for super fishing spots and tips for keen anglers.
Looking for something to get the adrenaline pumping? White water rafting is one of the River Dart’s specialties, with the region well-known as a top destination for kayakers and other paddlers who love a challenge. Two popular choices are the River Dart Country Park and Dartmeet, where training and trips are provided.
Contact AS Watersports or CRS Adventures to find out more information and make a booking.
Coasteering is an adventure for both families and adrenaline-junkies, and is arguably one of the most exciting things to do along the River Dart. Nothing beats the thrill of jumping off the rocks into deep blue waters and swimming through caves. All of this, along with stunning scenery as the backdrop, and the chance of seeing incredible ocean wildlife – what could be better? We recommend booking a day with a company like Adelong, for a fantastic, safe experience.
Find out more about coasteering in South Devon here.
Raft building is a great activity for parties, families, work colleagues or any group of friends – put your creative thinking and skills to the test and build rafts with rope, logs and barrels. Dynamic Adventures in Dartington offers this popular activity and boasts a wealth of other exciting things to do.
South Devon is blessed with two iconic steam railways, both of which are popular attractions and navigate the River Dart:
Reputed as one of the most charming riverside villages in the region, Dittisham oozes character. It is a popular spot for families looking to congregate and enjoy sweeping views across the River. Not only will you find two fabulous eateries (The Ferry Boat Inn and Anchorstone Cafe), but there is also a small play park, public conveniences and a large pontoon from which children can enjoy a spot of crabbing. Read our full Dittisham village guide for more information!
The historic riverside village of Stoke Gabriel enjoys sweeping views of the creek, making it yet another picture perfect pitstop. Sample the local drink and food, or simply sit back and absorb the calm, peaceful quayside. Read our Stoke Gabriel village guide for more information.
The small hamlet of Tuckenhay sits on the south bank of Bow Creek, the estuary of the Harbourne River which flows into the River Dart. Hidden on the banks of Bow Creek is the award-winning pub, The Maltsters Arms, serving sumptuous breakfast, lunch and dinner. A hive of activity, expect to find music, boats mooring, kayaks launching and children crabbing from the pontoon.
Spend a little time exploring the popular market town of Totnes, which is jam-packed with independent shops, cafes, restaurants, pubs, wine bars and takeaways. Read our blog post on the 10 best things to do in Totnes if you’re after ideas and inspiration.
You are well and truly spoilt for choice, with countless stunning spots to drink and dine along the River Dart and estuary. Here, we have ear-marked our top five favourite places. Be sure to leave space for rumbling tummies when exploring the River Dart…
At Coast & Country Cottages we have a fabulous selection of properties situated along (or just a stone’s throw!) from the River Dart. From quintessential coastal cottages located on the quayside, to stylish waterside apartments boasting panoramic riverside views, we have accommodation to suit all tastes and requirements.
Browse our portfolio to view our full collection of South Devon properties, or give our locally based team a call and we will be happy to help you find the perfect property. You will be exploring the River Dart from the water in no time at all!
I feel extremely privileged to have grown up in the South West, and enjoy sharing various local tips and tricks to ensure you can ...
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