Dartmouth

A Guide to Dartmouth

Nestled amidst steep hillsides and culminating in an exceptionally pretty harbour, Dartmouth is a true gem of the South Hams. Its narrow streets tell the story of a rich maritime history, harking back to a time when the medieval town was one of England’s most important ports. Today those streets are dotted with art galleries, boutiques, coffee stops and a burgeoning foodie scene. With crime writer Agatha Christie’s home, Greenway, within walking distance and some of Devon’s best beaches on its doorstep, Dartmouth is the starting point for some fabulous out of town adventures too. Here’s our guide on some of the best ways to spend a day or two in Dartmouth.

What to do in Dartmouth

Dartmouth is heaven on earth for walkers. From short stomps to more arduous hikes, an abundance of walks surround the harbour town. One of our favourites is the Dartmouth to Stoke Fleming route, taking in glorious views from the coastal path and country lanes along the way. Cross the water to Kingswear and you can join the Dart Valley Trail from Dartmouth to Greenway, home of Agatha Christie. It’s a long trek with its fair share of steep hills, but the woodland walk is well worth spending a day for the views alone. Alternatively, head in the opposite direction and take the South West Coast Path route from Kingswear to Coleton Fishacre, or further still to the fishing town of Brixham.

A must for any Dartmouth visit is a stop off at Dartmouth Castle. The 600-year-old relic commands spectacular views over the Dart and has its very own beach, Sugary Cove. Pack a picnic (or pick up a couple of pasties in town!) and hideaway here for a little while.

Dartmouth and neighbouring Kingswear are made up of a melee of pastel houses that tumble down the hillsides against a backdrop of greenery. It’s a sight to behold and nowhere better can you appreciate it than from the water. There are a number of ways to do it: the Greenway Ferry embarks on a leisurely 30-minute cruise to quaint Greenway Quay, from where you can hop across to Dittisham on the passenger ferry for lunch at The Ferry Boat Inn. Alternatively, consider booking your ticket for the Round Robin. Run by the Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company, this great family-friendly day out combines ferry, steam train and open-top bus to show you the sights of Dartmouth, Paignton and Totnes. It’s one of our favourite South Hams activities!

Shopping in Dartmouth puts lots of independent boutiques and covetable brands at your fingertips. Clothing, jewellery, homewares and art is high on the agenda here, much of it with a nautical spin; Bert & Buoy, JAM Industries and Jack Speak are our pick for coastal inspired apparel. Foss Street is another must for shoppers; from galleries and bookshops to lingerie and handmade jewellery, it’s a goldmine of hidden treasures. Finally, leave enough time to visit Mr Dartmouth himself; Paul Barclay is one of the South West’s leading artists and his maritime inspired artworks epitomize a life by the water. His commissions regularly appear on super yachts and can command tens of thousands of pounds, but you’ll find more purse-friendly pieces at his shop on Oxford Street.

Finally, if your stay in Dartmouth allows, leave town and head up the hill and along a truly beautiful coastal road to Blackpool Sands and further on to Torcross. These two sandy stretches are perfect if you need to feel the sand between your toes for a few hours and they’re both within a 20-minute drive of Dartmouth.

Where to eat in Dartmouth

Dartmouth has blossomed into the foodie heart of the South Hams and people travel from afar for a taste of the destination. Start your day with breakfast at the ever-popular Cafe Alf Resco or enjoy a lie in and head for brunch at Yarn instead. The intimate hangout is known to serve up the best brunch in town, from Sweet Potato Smash and Creamed Corn to a crispy bacon and glossy hollandaise laden Eggs Benedict.

Ever since Mitch Tonks and Mat Prowse led the charge with the 2008 opening of their Michelin starred restaurant, The Seahorse, this little harbour town has packed a huge punch on the food scene. Now with Mitch’s son, Ben, at the helm, the daily changing seafood menu has a flavour of the Mediterranean to it and the restaurant remains a hot ticket all those years later, with an ambience reminiscent of your favourite Italian trattoria by the sea.

Another exceptional eatery is Andria. The contemporary bistro has been making waves with its modern European small plates, earning a Michelin Bib Gourmand and notable mentions by Trencherman’s, the Good Food Guide and even Time Magazine in the process. Despite its stratospheric rise, the vibe remains relaxed, with a team that couldn’t be more helpful in explaining a menu from which you’ll inevitably want to order one of everything. A recently opened Chef’s Table has already become one of the most coveted dining experiences in Devon.

Where to drink in Dartmouth

There are few better ways to spend a day than simply wandering without motive and with a coffee in hand. Take your pick of indie coffee spots; we like Bespoke for it’s chic interiors and an selection of gluten free and vegan offerings. Woodroast is one for the coffee aficionado, while those who favour a good old British brew should head for The Singing Kettle; the Grade II listed building is home to a somewhat legendary Cream Tea.

When the sun goes down, the lights come on in Bar 1620. A slip of a place, the family-run cocktail bar arguably serves the best cocktails in Dartmouth and plays great music to accompany them. For more raucous evenings, it has to be The Dolphin. This traditional British boozer on the edge of the Market Square is a ‘proper pub’ and it attracts a crowd all year round. From after work drinks and Saturday night sundowners to Dartmouth Regatta fun and everything in between, plus a live music roster to shout about, it offers a good night guaranteed.

Houses for sale in Dartmouth

Whether you’re looking to make the move to Devon or are already a local seeking a change of scenery, Dartmouth is a truly captivating place to settle. Set on the banks of the beautiful River Dart, this historic harbour town blends a rich maritime heritage with a vibrant modern lifestyle. With its charming streets, independent shops, acclaimed restaurants, and easy access to both the South Devon coast and countryside, Dartmouth offers the perfect balance of character and convenience. Explore our collection of homes for sale in Dartmouth here.