Dartmouth Devon
Dartmouth Devon
We went on a short walk to Dartmouth today from the National Trust car park nearby. I thought it was a short walk but we followed the South West Coastal Path and it took us a bit further than what was in my head. Not a problem for us as it was a nice day out. I remember taking a path that was one mile to Dartmouth a few years ago from the same car park. Following the Coastal route takes you a little further as it’s up and down and in and out.
Plenty of birds to listen to on the way in as you pass all the trees that line the walk, We could see a Naval ship far out at sea, probably training Officers from Britannia Royal Naval College. As you walk into The mouth of the River Dart you get a good view of Kingswear which is directly across from the Town. They are linked by small ferries, catering for both car and foot passengers. Kingswear has a train station at the bottom of the harbour. The Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company, from here you can catch a steam train and or a boat cruise to various places. Check the website for the packages on offer.
A Walk To Dartmouth
A walk into Dartmouth along The South West Coastal path. Park at the National Trust car park (Free to members) for about £6.00 if not a member. Postcode TQ6 0JR. Leave the car park and head South towards the sea. This is an easy walk to follow, just follow the South West Coast Path signs. The path will take you up and down a few hills and hug the coast most of the time. When coming back we took the right path up Castle Road which takes you to a signpost saying Little Dartmouth, This path is long and slightly uphill. It is shorter than the coastal path we took on the way to Dartmouth. views from the path are amazing.
Distance 7.1 miles. Time spent moving 02:51 hours. Ascent 394 feet. Descent 709 feet. Avg. speed (throughout time spent moving) 2.7 mph
Hotels and Accommodation
Dartmouth Town
This beautiful town is situated on the banks of the picturesque River Dart, it’s the perfect year-round destination for a short break, day visit or holiday.
With numerous festivals and events taking place throughout the year, as well as a great range of attractions and activities both in Dartmouth and nearby, and a rich maritime heritage, there is always something happening in this vibrant harbour town.
History and Heritage
Famed for both its nautical and engineering importance, Dartmouth is a town full of culture, history and heritage, from castles to forts, ancient buildings and museums.
The Town dates back as far as 1147, and over the centuries has managed to retain many of its original features – though now somewhat modified to fit in with modern life. Just wandering through the streets you will see an eclectic mix of architecture amongst the buildings and streets, many dating back to the 16th century, such as the Butterwalk buildings.
Nautical Heritage
With castles, forts and even links to the Mayflower and the founding fathers of America, Dartmouth’s nautical heritage is impressive.
Even today Dartmouth is of nautical strategic importance and is home to the Britannia Royal Naval College. All accessible to visitors, spend a day exploring the historical buildings and places of Dartmouth.
Historical Houses and Gardens
With 2 English Heritage and 2 National Trust properties in Dartmouth, as well as several stately homes and gardens in the surrounding area – you can spend days exploring.
Steam Engines and More
It’s not just the maritime history that sets Dartmouth apart – it’s also the home of Thomas Newcomen, the inventor of the Steam Engine, a working engine that can be viewed at the Visitor Centre
Beaches
Want some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK? Then the beaches in and near Dartmouth are the ones for you. When you stay in Dartmouth, you are never far away from a range of beaches, each one offering a different experience, whether it’s sandcastles or coastal walks.
Whether you are looking for family fun, where the kids can go exploring the rock pools, a relaxing cove to sit and listen to the waves, a coastal stretch for walking the dog, or a spot to try one of the many watersports on offer, Dartmouth beaches have it all.
There are 2 beautiful secluded cove beaches in the town – Castle Cove and Sugary Cove next to Dartmouth Castle with stunning views of the estuary and the castle itself.
Dog-Friendly Beaches
There are many Dog-Friendly Beaches nearby; however, a couple of beaches do have dog bans through high season.
