Plymouth: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
Come rain or shine, Plymouth is a vibrant waterfront city packed full of attractions, eateries and things to do. ...
by Sarah Howard / Area Guides
On the picturesque banks of the River Dart, the ancient market town of Dartmouth is stunning and boasts a busy harbour, award-winning restaurants, charming side streets and a variety of independent shops.
Located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this thriving harbourside town is steeped in naval history and provides the ultimate blend of culture and outdoor pursuits, making it a perfect year-round holiday destination.
Use our quick links below or read on to discover all that Dartmouth has to offer in our comprehensive guide.
From award-winning restaurants and sumptuous fish and chip spots, to the renowned Dartmouth Food Festival and even a weekly farmers market, it’s no secret that the South Hams is a food lover’s paradise. One of the region’s crown jewels when it comes to eateries, Dartmouth fully embraces its foodie reputation. Expect to feast on fresh seafood that has been pulled straight from the South Devon coast, served alongside an abundance of locally grown produce.
Use the links below to learn of our favourite restaurants, cafes and even where to find the best afternoon tea in Devon.
Dartmouth has a deep-rooted history of longstanding naval ties, and the town is positively peppered with an array of traditional pubs, most of which are donned in historical memorabilia. From lively locals’ bars to family-friendly pubs, there is a public house for everyone (including four legged friends!) in search of a tipple or two.
Dartmouth is ideally situated to explore an abundance of beaches, some nestled in the town itself, and others just a short drive away. The beaches on offer are diverse, from family fun beaches to quiet and sheltered coves that are populated with wild swimmers and the occasional friendly seal! Just a short distance from the cobbled streets of the town centre, you will find both Castle Cove and Sugary Cove. Taking in breathtaking views over the estuary, they are small in their size, but what they lack in space they make up for in seclusion. Just a short drive from Dartmouth you will find the Blue-Flag-awarded beach of Blackpool Sands, and a little further afield are the popular shingle shores of Torcross, Beesands and Hallsands, not forgetting the hidden gem of Mattiscombe Sands.
Dartmouth is exceptionally dog-friendly, and as a result your four-legged friend will always be putting its best paw forward, thoroughly enjoying the abundance of tail-wagging activities. When it comes to choosing the perfect walk, Dartmouth pulls the ultimate trump card, boasting both coastal and countryside walks from the town itself. With immediate access to the South West Coast Path, our favourite circular route navigates Dartmouth Castle and also Little Dartmouth. The abundance of walks on offer can make it hard to know where to start, so be sure to read about our favourite dog-friendly walks.
For rumbling tummies and tired paws, read about a handful of our recommended pubs:
In addition to a jam packed (dog-friendly!) South Devon events calendar, we are certain you won’t find yourself short of things to do. Some of our favourite dog-friendly days out include;
For more inspiration on dog-friendly Dartmouth adventures visit our dog-friendly blog pages.
From shingle shores to sandy bays, dog-friendly beaches are found in abundance both in and around Dartmouth. What’s more, Dartmouth is just a short distance from some of the most popular dog-friendly beaches in the region. Do keep in mind that some beaches enforce dog bans during peak season, typically between April – October, so be sure to check our comprehensive guide for a full breakdown.
Taking a break with your canine companion is one of life’s great pleasures, and it comes as no surprise that dog-friendly cottages in Dartmouth are in popular demand. Situated within some of the South Hams’ most stunning locations with direct access to a bounty of outdoor adventure, we have a wealth of holiday cottages suitable for both you and your pooch. Whether you are looking for an enclosed garden, an open fire for a post-walk chill out, or a comfortable base with direct access to footpaths, we have it covered.
Whilst the walks on offer in and around Dartmouth are varied in both distance and difficulty, they all share a common thread of showcasing some of the most spectacular scenery in the South West.
The town of Dartmouth really packs a punch when it comes to choosing how best to spend your time. This much-loved naval town is steeped in history and culture, with learning opportunities for all ages. Be sure to immerse yourself in the historic houses and fortified castles and brush up on your local knowledge.
The town centre boasts an array of shopping spots, galleries and museums that are perfect for leisurely strolls and window shopping. For families seeking fun-filled activities, Dartmouth and its vicinity have a wealth on offer – Woodlands is one of our family favourites.
The town is a honey pot of activity and hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year. There are also a fantastic range of attractions and family-friendly activities, so you will always find something happening in this vibrant harbour town.
Dartmouth is a popular holiday destination year-round, and at Coast & Country Cottages we boast a collection of properties suited to all requirements, from luxury waterside apartments to countryside retreats and cosy romantic boltholes.
To find the perfect holiday cottage in Dartmouth for your next break, take a look at the properties on our website. Or, if you would prefer to speak to one of our friendly customer services team over the phone, call 01803 839499 for help choosing the best property for your holiday requirements.
by Sarah Howard / Area Guides
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