Dartmouth

Devon is a county that has a very special place in the hearts of many people. There is something about the atmosphere of a Devon seaside resort that makes people want to return year after year. Dartmouth is no exception. It is widely regarded as being something of a jewel in the heart of the South Hams. Dartmouth is home to the Britannia Royal Naval College and has a long association with the sea. You will discover a beautiful cobbled market place surrounded by ancient narrow and winding streets. These ancient streets are home to boutiques and galleries, exceptional delicatessens and all manner of interesting shops and cafes. Visit on market day and you will find the cobbled market square awash with colour. Many of the items sold on the regular farmers markets are used by the bars, cafes and restaurants in the town. There is more to this coastal town than merely spending time on the beach and the more you look into the attractions of this town, the more you understand why it draws people back year upon year.

Things to See and Do

The water is an obvious attraction; sail around the coastline and get yourself a whole new perspective on this beautiful part of the world, or take a dive beneath the waves and see what is happening below the surface on a scuba expedition. Ride the steam train across to the pretty resort town of Paignton, or head out and explore the castle or any of the National Trist properties in the area. The South West Coastal Pathway is just perfect for walking, or take the easy option and soak up the sun in the beautiful beaches around the region. Arrive here during festival season and you will find a very different Dartmouth awash with noise and colour, or arrive in time for the Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta and celebrate the town’s connection to the sea.

Places to Visit

It is along this stretch of coast that you will find some of the most beautiful beaches the England has to offer, including the award winning beach of Blackpool Sands. Dartmouth Castle is a must visit place; it has stood here for more than six hundred years, guarding the entrance to the picturesque dart estuary and the ever active port area. The children will enjoy exploring both Castle Cove and the delightfully named Sugary Cove which are both tucked away within the cliffs. Both are great for a spot of rock pool exploration and offer stunning views out to sea.

Everyone will enjoy a ride on the steam railway which travels through some of the most stunning countryside along the coast. The Dartmouth Museum offers a glimpse into the areas past and is uniquely located within what was once the house of a merchant which was built in around 1640. The museum houses attractions that will appeal to adults and children and unlike most other museums, it houses a gift shop filled with items that are associated with the surrounding area.