Life Around Collaton Park: What to Do, Eat and Enjoy

21st August 2025

Nestled just above the wooded banks of the River Yealm, Collaton Park sits quietly between coast and countryside. It's the kind of place that invites you to slow down, breathe in the sea air, enjoy the view, and find yourself embracing the rhythm of village life. But this peaceful village life doesn't mean you’ll be short of things to do. In fact, one of the loveliest parts of living here is just how much there is to discover, right on your doorstep. 

For those who love being outdoors, this area is a dream. Quiet footpaths lead out across open fields, through bluebell woods, and along the edge of the estuary, perfect for long dog walks, weekend rambles or enthusiastic hikes. The nearby South West Coast Path offers dramatic cliffside views and winding routes hugging hidden beaches if you're feeling adventurous, while the short but beautiful walk from Noss Mayo along the coast and back through woodland is a local favourite.

If you're drawn to the water, the River Yealm is ideal for paddle-boarding, kayaking or, the increasingly popular pastime, sailing. It’s one of the most peaceful estuaries in South Devon, surrounded by luscious green hills. On a calm day, you’ll see locals heading out with a flask to charter their dinghies and enjoy the waters. Slightly further afield, beaches like Mothecombe or Wembury make for brilliant day trips, with soft sand, rock-pools, and plenty of space to stretch out in the sun.

Food and drink are one of the quiet joys of life here. The area is packed with independent cafés, country pubs and brilliant farm shops; the kind of places where the menus change with the seasons, the sourdough is baked down the road, and the bar staff remember your name. Over in Noss Mayo, The Ship Inn is a favourite for fish and chips or a cold drink in the sunshine, with tables right beside the water. Alternatively, The Swan Inn provides a welcoming atmosphere and offers seasonal dishes which can be enjoyed whilst the children can enjoy crabbing off the quay, as the sunsets over the River Yealm. In Newton Ferrers, The Dolphin Inn is full of charm and character, with a cosy feel in winter and a buzzing terrace once the weather warms up. For a lighter bite, The Green is a great option, a delicatessen serving local produce lunches, fresh pastries, bread, cakes and the best coffee. And, for essentials (and the not-so-essentials), Ben’s Farm Shop is the go-to for organic veg, proper Devonshire cheese, fresh pastries and the occasional sweet treat from their deli counter. It’s one of those places where popping in for milk usually turns into a full shop and maybe one of their charcoal oven pizzas. 

There’s a real sense of connection here. It’s not the kind of place where everything has to be formal or planned; people simply come together. In the summer, the River Yealm  Regatta brings the river to life with rowing races, games, live music and a true village feel. Families gather with picnics, dogs are everywhere, and the local sailing clubs open their doors to anyone who wants to join in.

Throughout the year, you’ll find farmers’ markets, art exhibitions, plant sales and quiet seasonal celebrations, often advertised on hand-painted signs or in the window of the village shop. There's also a growing creative scene, with regular pop-ups from local makers and small galleries showcasing South Devon artists. Whether you’ve lived here for years or you’re just settling in, it’s the kind of place where you’ll feel part of something before you know it.

At Collaton Park, life is designed to be easy-going. The homes are built with sustainability in mind, with smart energy features and a soft, natural palette that blends into the surroundings. There’s plenty of green space, with plans for a community orchard, allotments and shared areas where neighbours can stop for a chat. It’s not overly polished or too remote, just thoughtfully planned and genuinely liveable.

Living here feels like a reset. It’s the kind of place where you start your day with birdsong and end it with a glass of wine watching the sunset roll over the hills. You’re close enough to Totnes and Plymouth to dip into city life when you need to, but far enough away to enjoy real peace and quiet. Whether you’re raising a family, starting a new chapter, or simply looking for more space and stillness, this little corner of Devon offers something that’s getting harder to find, a way to live that feels grounded, simple, and just right.