Summary
Situated on a picturesque natural harbor at the confluence of the River Dart, Dartmouth is a captivating medieval maritime town.
The charming landscape, narrow streets, and remarkable historical sites converge to provide an unforgettable experience.
Dartmouth boasts a diverse culinary scene, featuring exceptionally fresh seafood and local cream which contributes to the celebrated Devon cream teas and ice cream.
Dartmouth Castle, the town’s guardian perched on a cliff at the harbor’s entrance, resembles something from a cinematic tale, in the most enchanting way.
The South West Coast Path offers invigorating walks rewarded with views that will remain etched in your memory. Additionally, the Dartmouth Steam Railway and river cruises allow you to appreciate Devon’s natural beauty in a more relaxed manner.
Let us delve into the top attractions in Dartmouth:
1. Dartmouth Castle
Overseeing the entrance to the harbor, Dartmouth Castle is likely to have one of the most stunning locations of any fortification in the country.
Perched on a rocky promontory at the mouth of the River Dart, it offers breathtaking views of the harbor and the open sea.
In the late 15th century, the castle was modified to serve as Britain’s first artillery fortress, equipped with formidable cannons intended for sinking enemy ships.
During this period, a significant feature was added—a long iron chain was suspended across the harbor at night, connecting to Godmerock on the eastern shore to deter ships from entering.
From a distance, one of the castle’s notable landmarks is the Church of St Petrox, which as it stands today dates back to 1641. Indulge in a cream tea by the river at the castle while observing the bustling harbor activities, followed by a refreshing stroll along the waterfront or through the serene woodlands behind the castle.
2. Dartmouth Harbour
This expansive natural harbor can accommodate large vessels, including the well-known residential yacht MS The World, which made a stop here prior to delivery to its owners in the 2000s.
While commercial activity has diminished, Dartmouth Harbour remains vibrant, featuring 3,000 moorings along with a fleet of fishing boats delivering plentiful catches of crab and lobster during the autumn season.
The Royal Naval College’s presence in Dartmouth ensures that the harbor frequently hosts large naval ships.
The scenic hills flanking the sides of the Dart Estuary enhance the grandeur of the harbor, and if you seek an ideal time to visit, consider the end of August.
During this period, the three-day Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta occurs, featuring a lineup of rowing competitions, sailing events, aerial displays, fireworks, markets, and joyful family activities.
3. St Saviour’s Church
Founded in the early 13th century, this church located behind the Quay harbors a captivating history.
As Edward I surveyed the harbor for his military campaigns in France, the townspeople petitioned the king for permission to construct a new church, as St Clement’s, situated atop Townstal Hill, was the only place of worship available.
His approval came without consulting the Bishop of Exeter, who opposed the idea, resulting in a delay that meant the church was not consecrated until 1372. Observe the remarkable medieval ironwork door adorned with the two leopards of the Plantagenets.
Local legend suggests that the gallery, embellished with the coats of arms of prominent local families, was constructed from timbers salvaged from ships taken during the Spanish Armada.
Admire the oak rood screen from 1480 and the numerous medieval monuments, including the tomb of John Hawley (d. 1408) and his two wives.
4. Dartmouth Museum
The engaging town museum is housed within an historic slate-covered merchant’s residence on the Butterwalk, which dates back to 1640. In 1671, Charles II took refuge here for a night during a storm.
The building itself is of notable historical value and features an original plaster ceiling interpreted as a Tree of Jesse.
In this maritime town, the museum galleries prominently feature nautical themes, including model ships, vessels in bottles, and artifacts from various boats that have docked here over the years.
Discover the stories of Dartmouth’s notable figures, such as Thomas Newcomen, the 18th-century pioneer of the first practical steam engine.
Children will enjoy interactive experiences like examining objects under microscopes, trying out stocks, creating pirate hats, and engaging in quizzes.
5. Royal Avenue Gardens
A serene location for appreciating the full beauty of the Dart and its elevated banks, Royal Avenue Gardens was created on reclaimed land.
This area was originally a sandbank until a wall was constructed on the riverbank to provide additional mooring space for port vessels.
Owing to the sandy substrate, it was never developed, subsequently transforming into a venue for public gatherings and eventually becoming a genuine park following landscaping in 1887. This site was where Queen Victoria disembarked during her visit to Dartmouth in 1856, lending it its royal title.
During summer, the newly designed borders and flowerbeds are particularly delightful. Owing to Devon’s temperate climate, the Antipodean, Japanese, and Mediterranean gardens showcase exotic plant species like olive trees, ginkgo, palms, and New Zealand ferns.
6. Foss Street
This charming thoroughfare descends northward from St Saviour’s Church, often visible through the narrow alleys of houses.
Foss Street is of medieval origin, dating back to the early 13th century, initially serving as a dam for the reservoir that powered Dartmouth’s mills.
Now pedestrianized, it provides a pleasant environment filled with flower boxes, quaint houses, galleries, and numerous independent shops offering handmade candles, designer jewelry, fashion, art supplies, antique books, and unique gifts.
7. Dartmouth Royal Naval College
Since 1863, naval officers have been trained in Dartmouth, starting with HMS Britannia moored in the River Dart.
The Royal Naval College became established in its present form in 1905, following the completion of this notable Edwardian Baroque campus.
Aston Webb, the architect behind the college, is also known for his work on the Victoria and Albert Museum and the façade of Buckingham Palace.
Officer cadets aged 18 to 32 undergo training ranging from 30 to 49 weeks, contingent on their chosen specialization.
Although access is generally restricted, there are guided tours available through the Britannia Association on Mondays and Wednesdays, with specific information available on their website.
The tour includes visits to the chapel, quarterdeck, senior gun room, Britannia Heritage Museum, and parade ground.
8. South West Coast Path
The United Kingdom’s longest National Trail, spanning a convoluted 630-mile route around the South West Peninsula, traverses Dartmouth.
It serves as an excellent base for those wishing to explore segments of this scenic route.
Adventurers experience what is known as the most challenging of the UK’s national trails, characterized by rugged headlands descending to the sea, only to ascend steep cliffs shortly thereafter.
A more accessible option is the ten-mile walk to Torcross, which becomes easier as you head southward, with the landscape opening up to lush fields.
For those seeking a greater challenge, the trek to Brixham is more arduous, involving navigation through a series of stunning valleys on the eastern side of the River Dart.
Don’t forget to pause at Berry Head to witness the largest guillemot colony on England’s southern coast.
9. Dartmouth Steam Railway
Catch the ferry to Kingswear for a 35-minute journey on this heritage railway, which covers 6.7 miles to Paignton with three stops along the way.
As will be discussed shortly, the ferry across the Dart, linking to the train service, is operated by the same company, which also conducts tours on the river.
Seek a seat on the right side of the carriage to fully appreciate the breathtaking scenery of the Torbay coast as well as the verdant hills lining the eastern shore of the Dart Estuary.
On clear days, you may even glimpse the Isle of Portland in Dorset across the expanse of Lyme Bay.
The locomotives operating on this former branch line of the Great Western Railway were constructed between 1921 and 1951, and 11 of the 21 coaches are elegant British Railways Mark I corridor coaches from the 1950s and 60s.
10. Blackpool Sands
This Blue Flag crescent-shaped cove possesses a striking beauty seldom witnessed in England.
Blackpool Sands is an inviting beach featuring a mix of shingle and coarse sand, caressed by gentle waves and bordered by low, lush cliffs.
Notably, the beach is privately managed, ensuring impeccable cleanliness and a plethora of amenities for a relaxing summer outing.
Visitors can rent paddleboards and kayaks, as well as swim out to a bathing raft situated within the bay.
Children will find entertainment in the sand pits, alongside an organic café providing snacks and light meals.
11. Water Activities
The best way to truly appreciate Dartmouth and the South Devon Coast is from the water.
Fortunately, many options are available for this experience.
Dartmouth has long been recognized as a prominent sailing port, and the Dartmouth Yacht Club offers training for all skill levels.
To enhance your direct experience with the water, Sea Kayak Devon operates in Dartmouth, providing kayaking courses and trips along the protected coastline.
The scenic vistas, historical landmarks, and tranquil waters of the Dart Estuary are ideal for paddleboarding excursions, allowing for breaks at riverside villages and welcoming inns for lunch.
For the adventurous at heart, wild swimming has gained popularity in the River Dart.
12. Boat Trips
The operator of the steam railway additionally provides cruises throughout the captivating Dart Estuary, commencing and concluding in the harbor.
Six cruises occur daily during the peak summer period, reducing to four at other times.
During the journey, you will have ample opportunity to view Dartmouth and Kingswear Castles, the Royal Naval College, Bayard’s Cove Fort, and Agatha Christie’s estate.
Engaging commentary is provided throughout the voyage.
It is important to remember that the river is subject to tidal changes, thus cruise schedules fluctuate accordingly.
If fortunate, you may embark on the PS Kingswear Castle, a coal-fired paddle steamer launched in 1924, featuring engines from 1904. Furthermore, passengers can enjoy a swift crossing on the Higher and Lower Kingswear Ferries, which traverse the estuary in mere minutes.
As an additional option, the Dartmouth Passenger Ferry, also managed by the Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company, provides transport across the river.
13. Newcomen Memorial Engine
Thomas Newcomen, a Dartmouth native (1664-1729), is recognized as the inventor of the first practical steam engine.
A remarkable working example of his beam engine from 1725 has been preserved in his honor.
This engine is the oldest surviving steam engine in the world and was originally utilized to pump water at several coal mines in the West Midlands.
In 1963, the engine was relocated to Dartmouth to commemorate Newcomen’s legacy and to celebrate the 300th anniversary of his birth.
The engine is displayed in a former electricity substation that also accommodates Dartmouth’s tourist information center.
The engine features an arched beam and a 22-inch cylinder that are both original and nearly 300 years old, while the pickle-pot condenser beneath the cylinder originates from 1820.
14. Bayard’s Cove Fort
Positioned on a rocky ledge at a narrow section of the Dart, this 16th-century artillery blockhouse safeguards the harbor entrance.
Bayard’s Cove Fort was conceived during the early years of Henry VIII’s reign as a fortification against potential assaults from France or Spain.
This structure was intended as a final line of defense for any ships that might surpass Dartmouth and Kingswear Castles located further down the estuary.
Following years of neglect, the fort was repurposed during the Second World War as a machine gun post.
As of 2018, English Heritage was engaged in restoration efforts, and upon completion, visitors will have the opportunity to experience the historical significance through the 11 gun ports while learning about the fort’s architecture and weaponry.
15. Woodlands Family Theme Park
Located five miles from Dartmouth lies Devon’s largest family theme park, encompassing 16 rides and numerous animals across more than 90 acres.
Within such a large expanse, Woodlands Family Theme Park provides a diverse experience, featuring three of Devon’s tallest roller coasters, a toboggan run that spans half a kilometer of exhilarating descent, alongside peaceful walks through mature woodlands.
Young visitors will be enchanted by the Zoo Farm, home to pigs, meerkats, reptiles, and a variety of other animals including llamas, alpacas, and ponies.
Additionally, the park boasts the largest indoor play area in South West England, which includes a multitude of ball pits, slides, and climbing structures, as well as an engaging program of science-themed “Fizz Pop” workshops and performances.
