{"id":11655,"date":"2020-01-20T10:34:18","date_gmt":"2020-01-20T10:34:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.coastandcountry.co.uk\/?p=11655"},"modified":"2023-11-09T12:52:43","modified_gmt":"2023-11-09T12:52:43","slug":"hallsands-south-devon-beach-bible","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.coastandcountry.co.uk\/blog\/hallsands-south-devon-beach-bible","title":{"rendered":"Hallsands Beach | South Devon Beach Bible"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Hallsands village<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Hallsands village is located within a tranquil Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, towards the Southern end of Start Bay. Boasting rolling countryside, thriving wildlife, a dog-friendly beach, access to the South West Coast Path and a famous historic lost town, it comes as no surprise that Hallsands village is one of South Devon\u2019s most loved hidden gems. Hallsands has a very famous local history, dominated by the precarious position of the village and the somewhat relentless force of the sea. Just last century it was a thriving fishing village, but nowadays you will find the scene somewhat different…<\/p>\n

\"Fishermans<\/h2>\n

Hallsands lost village<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Prior to the winter of 1917, Hallsands was a small coastal village that was home to over 100 residents, and enjoyed a variety of shops and a hearty pub. A strong sense of community enveloped Hallsands, and whilst life at sea was tough, throughout the 18th and 19th century it continued to grow from strength to strength as a fishing village. In 1894, the Royal Navy made plans to extend the Devonport Dockyard, and to help facilitate this, they significantly dredged the shingle at Hallsands. As expected, this dramatically altered the shape and angle of the beach, which went on to have life-lasting detrimental effects. Before long, cracks within the protective sea wall and houses started appearing, and a spring hide tide now came within just 3ft of the village. Despite petitioning, little was done to help the infrastructure of the village and the dredging continued. After nearly five years of dredging over 650,000 tonnes of shingle were removed from the beach, and in the years that followed, houses suffered significant damage – the pub even lost its kitchen, bedroom and cellars! In the depths of January 1917, a combination of severe gales, violent storms and a very high tide broke down the sea wall and the entire village (all but one house!) became beholden to the sea.<\/p>\n

Discover the Hallsands village story<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The site of the old village is located at South Hallsands, and whilst this is closed to the public due to unstable cliffs and continued erosion, you will find a viewing platform at the top of the new Hallsands village. Here you can take in the uninterrupted views of Start Bay, and learn even more about the history of the area. Documented in pictures, photos and words, spend your time learning about the village of Hallsands, its tragic history, and some of the finer details about what it was like to live and work in the fishing village during its prime.<\/p>\n

\"Hallsands<\/h2>\n

Hallsands beach<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Hallsands beach, (also known as Greenstraight), is the only remaining beach in the village of Hallsands, and this small shingle stretch can be found at the north end of Hallsands. One of the quieter beaches within Start Bay, it is the perfect spot for those in search of solitude and space. There are not the same numbers of amenities one would find at some of the other beaches in the area but, if you come prepared, there is no reason to why you can\u2019t have a good time at this unspoilt beach. What it lacks in facilities, it certainly makes up for in historical interest, excellent walks and beautiful views! Dog-friendly year round, Hallsands beach is a popular destination for those with four-legged friends.<\/p>\n

Despite its size and secluded location, you won\u2019t find yourself short of things to do when visiting Hallsands beach. Locally renowned as a great place to go fishing due to its shallow beach it is a popular spot amongst keen anglers – plaice and bass are the target species in this area for those in the know. The calm, clean and crystal clear waters make it a popular spot not just for swimmers, but also for sea kayakers, snorkelers and scuba divers eager to explore the dramatic underwater ruins of the lost village. Take note that there is no lifeguard service at this beach so always take care when in the water. Equally, for those in search of rest and relaxation, it is the perfect place to simply sit back and unwind.<\/p>\n

How to get to Hallsands beach<\/strong><\/h3>\n