5 Ideas for a Memorable Mother’s Day in South Devon
Spring is emerging and we are fast approaching Mother’s Day in South Devon, which, for those that don’t have...
Wondering how to spend your days whilst on holiday in Salcombe? We’ve put together a quick list of things to do in Salcombe, with stacks of attractions and activities to help you plan a fun-filled break.
Looking for something specific? Use our quick links below or read on for our comprehensive guide on everything you need to know for a fantastic holiday.
No trip to Salcombe is complete without a visit to Salcombe Gin distillery. Winning a host of international and regional awards, Salcombe Gin have refined the art of a gin experience. Whether you are a discerning expert or merely dabble in the odd G&T, Salcombe Gin Distillery is a delight to visit. Take a tour through the distillery where they make their award-winning gin, or mix and match your preferred aromatic flavours to craft your very own special blend to take home. This is all rounded off by sipping a superb G&T in their stylish distillery bar overlooking the water.
If gin is not your thing, fear not – the Salcombe Distilling team have also launched their very own rum range. Fancy learning the art of rum distillation? Come along to their dedicated rum school, where you can use the beautiful copper still to create your own bespoke spirit, to take away for a rainy (or sunny) day.
Devon Rum Co is a fairly new addition to the beverage scene in Salcombe, offering award-winning spiced and flavoured rums, as well as a tasting and tour experience of their Blending House on Island Street. You can also enjoy a “Rum Cocktail Masterclass”, where you and your friends can learn from the in-house expert mixologists how to make four different rum-based cocktails using their artisan rums – a wonderful way to spend an afternoon in Salcombe!
Why not ‘try before you buy’ and sample their range with a glass of something chilled in their waterside bar. If you’re looking for a gift for a loved one, their shop is home to beautifully crafted gift sets, or you can buy vouchers on their website to book the rum tasting experience at a later date. To find out more, visit the Devon Rum Co website.
This useful ferry runs between Whitestrand, in the centre of Salcombe, and the picturesque beach of South Sands – meaning trips too and from town to this popular beach are quick and easy. Plus, for the last leg of the journey at South Sands, visitors move across from the ferry to a purpose-built amphibious sea-tractor, to travel the final stretch from sea to land; memorable fun for all ages! Visit their website to see ferry times and prices.
The spa at Salcombe Harbour Hotel, located on Salcombe’s beautiful waterfront, has everything you’d expect from a luxurious spa facility and more, including an indoor swimming pool, hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room and fitness suite.
Indulge in a relaxing Salcombe HarSPA Bespoke Massage using traditional techniques and body oils tailored to your needs. Treatments include a hot stone massage using the heat of volcanic basalt stones, which reaches deep into tired muscles, stimulating muscle rejuvenation and providing warm relief and relaxation. Salcombe Harbour Hotel is also home to the Jetty Restaurant, a popular eatery with an emphasis on fresh local produce.
Launched in 2022, this stunning newly developed spa and restaurant is situated on South Sands beach, offering guests a wealth of dining and wellbeing opportunities. As featured in the Sunday Times “Best Luxury Spas to Book for 2023”, this desirable establishment boasts awe-inspiring views over the cove and beyond. For an unforgettable meal of local seafood head to the popular restaurant, whilst for some well deserved ‘me-time’, the beachside spa is calling your name…
Sitting high over Salcombe, the view from Overbeck’s House and Gardens is as impressive as the property itself. Now run by the National Trust, Overbeck’s is one of the most popular Salcombe attractions on our list. The quirky natural history and art exhibitions, combined with the unique assemblage of plants from around the world, are a fitting tribute to the eccentric scientist and inventor, Otto Overbeck (1860 – 1937).
Find out more about Overbeck’s life and work as you explore the house and grounds, which you’ll find close to South Sands, a little over a mile from the centre of Salcombe.
Salcombe’s little museum packs in plenty of interest for lovers of all things maritime. Through paintings, photographs, models and other artefacts, visitors can learn about Salcombe’s links with shipping and the sea, from ancient times all the way to the Second World War.
This fantastic pub in the heart of Salcombe is a great place to eat all year round. Affectionately offering a ‘man creche’ for the hubbies while the ladies go shopping, the Victoria Inn has an amazing range of ales to keep the gents happy. Best of all it’s also dog friendly! Take a look at our dog-friendly cottages in Salcombe.
Spend summer days lounging in their huge hidden garden devouring crab sandwiches, or while away the evening with friends selecting snacks from their nibbles menu.
Anyone who has been to Salcombe before will recommend the Winking Prawn. This established restaurant overlooking North Sands has a quirky charm and a cool 50’s beach décor. For those who like a relaxed atmosphere and casual service, enjoy a buffet breakfast, seafood platters and scrumptious baguettes at lunch time, or head down in the evening for the barbecue feast with lots of fish, meat and veggie delights.
A stunning waterside location, with an atmospheric view, The Crab Shed is definitely a seafood lover’s haven. Conveniently located near the Fish Quay, they specialise in the very best seasonal fish and shellfish supplied directly from their Crab Factory and the local fishing boats. For more fantastic places to eat, take a look at our guide to mouth-watering restaurants in Salcombe.
What better way to start your holiday in Salcombe than with a bit of retail therapy? Amble along the cobbled streets browsing through the diverse selection of independent stores, boutiques and local outlets – home to some famous brands which started right here on our very doorstep.
Selling personalised bags and accessories, handmade in their Salcombe store, Will Bees Bespoke has emerged as another unique Salcombe brand. Anyone who has been in the store will tell you how welcoming the staff are, as well as how beautiful the product is. With free initials embossed onto the bags, these are truly special pieces which are perfect for a personal purchase to remind you of your holiday, or to give as a gift! The vintage chic style of the shop immediately makes you feel at home, so make sure you take a trip to this exciting store!
You can’t come away from Salcombe without one of Quba & Co’s bespoke sailcloth jackets. These trademark jackets are somewhat an icon of Salcombe, with no two items being the same. Originally established right here in Salcombe in 1996, Quba & Co now have stores dotted all throughout the UK. They’ve diversified their nautically themed range with sailcloth bags, holdalls, cushions and even doggie coats.
A very stylish store offering unique and luxurious fashion. This luxury boutique offers the simple excitement of discovering gorgeous, well-made things – from soft Scandi knits and easy weekend-wear to sumptuous silk dresses, French perfumes and handcrafted homewares. It’s definitely worth a visit to Busby & Fox to treat yourself to something special.
Yet another brand synonymous with Salcombe is Jack Wills. Starting with a single store in Salcombe’s Fore Street, Jack Wills has established itself as a British lifestyle and heritage brand which has grown from strength to strength. Known for its high-quality, heritage inspired wardrobe classics, Jack Wills epitomises a carefree, youthful spirit – intrinsically charming, endlessly optimistic and unapologetically British.
For creative kids and families keen to explore their artistic sides, Paper Bird Island is the perfect shop to visit. Located in a new premises on Thorning Street, this treasure trove offers a range of art and craft kits to purchase and take home, as well as a host of handmade, locally produced gifts and cards. Visit their website to check opening hours.
Situated on Salcombe’s bustling Fore Street, Bert & Buoy is a fabulous ‘must-visit’ shop, filled with delightful, locally made goodies to take home for friends, family, or yourself! Ranging from woven blankets to artwork, mugs to cushions, there’s a host of items that will make your home feel more ‘Salcombe’… and if you want to add to your collection further down the line, they also have the option to order on the website! The resident artist Bert Fowler also offers private commissions.
For those with an interest in beautiful interior design, Brocante is another South-West born and bred brand, offering everything from coastal inspired artwork, to furniture, clocks and all things comfy. Wander along Fore Street where you will find this gem, stocking an array of useful and pretty things for your home.
Take a nostalgic trip down memory lane at Cranch’s sweetshop. This iconic and traditional little store is adorned from floor to ceiling with jars of every sort of sweet and treat you could possibly imagine. With all the old favourites, a visit here will literally transport you back to your childhood! With their iconic pink and white striped store front, Cranch’s is a fantastic spot for kids of all ages, who leave with their striped paper bags filled to the brim with decadent treats. From pick’n’mix to locally made fudge, anyone with a sweet tooth is catered for.
Take a look at our blog on Salcombe shops to find out more about shops in Salcombe high street.
Established in 1979 in a small stone shed at the bottom of Coronation Road, the Salcombe Dairy is home to the most delicious ice cream in South Devon. Still using the original recipe developed by the founder Peter Howard, their success story is simple – they’ve been around this long because their ice cream is just so very good! With quality milk, straight from the farm each morning and double cream in fresh from the creamery, it’s no wonder their ice creams are so delightfully decadent.
In addition to their ice cream offering, Salcombe Dairy have diversified and, since 2022, now also have a chocolate factory and shop on Island Street. Between the shop and factory there is a full height glass wall, meaning visitors can watch the chocolatiers take chocolate from bean to bar, before their very eyes! Products available to purchase range from truffles and traditional bars to hot chocolate, hampers, gifts and more.
Why not take the family for a dip at Salcombe’s heated outdoor swimming pool? A brilliant little facility that will have your kids whiling away the hours while you can sit and relax in the sun. Lifeguards are always on duty so there’s a safe space for kids to swim and have fun.
What trip to Salcombe is complete without a crabbing session? This seaside tradition keeps kids and adults entertained for hours. Make sure to read our blog on the ultimate guide to crabbing for all the best tips on what you will need and also a few of the best spots.
Looking to entertain your children, whilst other members of your party explore the shops? Or perhaps you all need a break from retail therapy and need to let the little ones burn off some energy? Courtenay Park is the place for you! Tucked just metres from the main Fore Street, this peacefully located gem is a great little place for young kids to play on the swings, slides and roundabout to their hearts content… plus the benches mean weary mums and dads can have a rest too.
Salcombe Launch Co. offer motor launches for self-drive hire, between May 1st and October 1st. Perfect for exploring the fantastic array of beaches, eateries and idyllic ice cream spots in and surrounding Salcombe, this is a great way to make the most of life on the water during the warmer months. When hiring one of their clinker-built vessels, they’ll provide you with a complimentary mooring located just off the town quay.
Explore the beautiful Salcombe Estuary on a self-drive boat with Whitestrand Boat Hire. They’ll show you the ropes so you don’t need any experience to take the wheel of a range of vessels, from open fishing boats to cabin cruisers. The company also offers mackerel fishing trips if you’d rather leave the piloting to someone else.
Dinghies are ideal for sailing beginners, and with Salcombe Dinghy Sailing you can (literally) learn the ropes under the watchful eye of Ross Crook, an RYA Chief Instructor, or even hire a dinghy to take out yourself (experience permitting).
Read loads more about sailing in Salcombe, from dinghy’s to luxury yachts in our blog on Salcombe sailing.
Would you prefer to be out exploring the water under your own steam? Sea Kayak Salcombe, based at South Sands, will either train you up, take you on a tour, or let you hire a sea kayak so you can discover the estuary yourself.
Hungry for even more ways to enjoy the clear blue waters of the estuary? Sea N Shore could be the Salcombe attraction for you, with their powerboat training, rib rides, coasteering, water-skiing and wakeboarding sessions, banana boat rides, wildlife watching trips and more.
Enjoy one of the most popular pastimes on the water and explore Salcombe as you have never seen it before. Salcombe Watersports provide everything you need for an unforgettable day out on the water. Take a guided tour of the estuary or have one-on-one tuition and learn to paddleboard as a memorable part of your Salcombe stay. To learn a bit more about this super watersport, read our guide to stand up paddleboarding in South Devon.
Where better to enjoy an invigorating swim in the outdoors than Salcombe’s coastline, peppered with secluded coves and sandy beaches. Whether you take a quick dip or a leisurely paddle, the serene, exquisite surroundings are a tonic for the soul. Read more about our favourite spots across South Devon on our blog about wild swimming in South Devon.
Each of the town’s beautiful beaches is an attraction in its own right. Tucked along the mouth of the estuary, in a protected bay, are two of the most desirable beach locations in the South West.
Crystal clear waters and a large sandy stretch perfect for families makes North Sands Beach one of Salcombe’s favourite spots. Within easy walking distance of the town and offering a large car park, families flock to the beach for hours of fun in the sun. A day at North Sands is best rounded off by a visit to the Winking Prawn, with views out over the sparkling blue sea. To find out more, read our blog on North Sands Beach.
A little further along the coast is the unspoilt South Sands beach. Enjoy the warm sun, soft sands and clear seas. Visit Bo’s Beach Café after your day of building sandcastles, sunbathing and swimming. Sit down, relax, chat, check the delicious food menu out and enjoy the atmosphere. And don’t forget, there’s the Salcombe Ferry which takes you straight into town.
East Portlemouth beach is a series of small sandy coves that look out west towards Salcombe and the clear blue water of the Kingsbridge Estuary. While accessible by car, the journey does takes around 35-40 minutes, so why not enjoy the adventure of taking the passenger ferry from Salcombe across the estuary? Its location is one reason why the beach tends to be a little quieter and more serene than its local rivals. Another great thing about this beach is that it is dog-friendly all year. Take your pooch for a splash and a romp with the rest of the family. Read more about other dog-friendly beaches in the area.
Salcombe sits on a beautiful section of the South West Coast Path, with stunning scenery in both directions. An eastward hike from East Portlemouth (after taking the passenger ferry) will take you to Gara Rock beach, Prawle Point and onward to the rugged charm of Start Point and its iconic lighthouse. A south-westerly walk will lead you to Starehole Bay, Soar Mill Cove, or even all the way to Hope Cove’s beaches and beyond (stamina and sturdy footwear are required!)
This exquisite circular route takes you along the picturesque Salcombe Estuary to meet the breathtaking sight of the wide open sea.
East Portlemouth to Gara Rock walk
A firm favourite of locals and visitors to the Salcombe area, this walk offers an exhilarating way to enjoy spectacular views from the South West Coast Path. There’s no better place to see the contrast between the South Devon hills against the rugged coastline.
A mainly flat route and super straightforward stroll through the rolling countryside, this walk is perfect for families with kids. There are plenty of spots to have a picnic and benches to rest on and enjoy the wonderful coast and countryside views.
Whether you love walking, watersports, wining and dining or all of the above, why not book a holiday in Salcombe and spend your week enjoying the best that South Devon has to offer. Like Salcombe itself, our range of self-catering accommodation has options to suit everyone. Whether you’re a large group that needs a place with ample room, fancy a holiday cottage with a sea view or want a property that’s close to the beach, we’re sure to have a holiday home that will meet your needs.
Book your Salcombe holiday cottage today
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