Kingswear

Kingswear

A Guide to Kingswear

Located opposite the maritime town of Dartmouth, Kingswear is close enough to enjoy all that this vibrant town provides, but far enough away to escape the everyday hustle and bustle of Dartmouth. A substantial location itself, Kingswear offers a variety of activities and eateries for people for all ages to enjoy.

Kingswear and Dartmouth synonymously boast a rich history and heritage. Both prospered during medieval times as a active port and the castles either side of the estuary once guarded the area from attacks during the 15th – 16th centuries. Still thriving regions today, Kingswear and Dartmouth are renowned for their natural beauty and waterside proximity.

What to do in Kingswear

There’s plenty of things to do in Kingswear, whether you’re a water lover, history enthusiast or an avid wanderer.

Most notably, Kingswear is known for its historic steam railway, the terminus of the Dartmouth Steam Railway. This heritage attraction in the heart of Kingswear follows the riverbank towards Galmpton and through the countryside to the English Riviera coastline; past Broadsands Beach and Goodrington Sands before terminating in Paignton town centre. Make a full day of it and combine your steam train excursion with an open-top bus tour and river cruise from Totnes on the Round Robin trip. Loved by children and adults alike, this attraction makes a perfect day out come rain or shine.

If you’re a lover of stately homes and historic estates, a trip to National Trust-owned Coleton Fishacre is a must. Originally owned by the D-Oyly Carte family, this Arts and Crafts-style house was built in the mid-1920s by architect Oswald Milne. The Art Deco interiors transport you back to the Jazz Age and the RHS-accredited tropical gardens is home to exotic plants, herbaceous borders and tranquil woodlands which thrive due to the mild microclimate of this region of Devon. Follow the garden path down and it’ll lead you to the coastline, offering extraordinary vistas of the rugged rocks and glistening sea, where you might spot a seal basking in the sun, or peregrine falcons in flight, searching for their next meal. From the viewpoint at the cliffs edge, you’ll get a good glimpse of Pudcombe Cove with a tidal pool and changing room, built for the D’Oyly Carte family to spend their days relaxing by the sea. Whilst this cove is now inaccessible from the estate, it certainly can be reached via paddleboard or kayak from the northerly beaches of Long Sands or Woodhuish Beach.

Venturing upstream along the River Dart will land you at Greenway, previous holiday home to the iconic crime-writer, Agatha Christie. Purchasing the house in the late 1930s, Agatha and her family would spend many summer holidays and Christmas’s here, affectionately calling it her ‘dream house’. Greenway was an inspiration for Agatha, featuring in many of her renowned novels such as Dead Man’s Folly; a trip wouldn’t be complete without visiting the boathouse, the scene of the crime in this story! With opulent 1950s interiors, the atmospheric house is complete with a vast collection of antiques and artifacts, giving even more depth to this already fascinating abode. The grounds are also exceptionally exquisite; the walled garden is home to a restored peach house, a battery and allotment, plus the large woodland rolls down the hillside towards the Dart Estuary, a haven for wildlife.

In additional to its historic significance, Kingwear is a walker’s paradise with miles upon miles of footpaths to traverse, catering for hardy hikers and relaxing ramblers alike. One of our favourite routes is towards the Daymark, an impressive and striking navigational landmark that stands tall on the hilltop of Froward Point and can be seen for miles when out at sea. If a riverside walk is more your cup of tea, the Dart Valley Trail offers a moderate route through ancient woodlands filled with birdsong and rustling leaves, and along the riverbanks where Dartmouth’s picture postcard harbourside is best witnessed. The trail totals some 16 miles, elapsing Dartmouth, Dittisham, Sharpham and Totnes, but can be shortened depending on how energetic you feel!

There is quite simply no better way to explore the estuary and coastline than via the water; whether it be by boat, kayak or paddleboard. Cruising through the calm and tranquil waters of the Dart is one of the most popular pastimes of those who live and visit Kingswear. You’ll often see people gliding through the estuary on sunny mornings, making the most of what the water has to offer. A day spent navigating the waters is a day well spent; you can travel upstream to visit other small villages that line the estuary such as Stoke Gabriel, Dittisham or Galmpton before reaching the picturesque town of Totnes, or venture out to sea and along the coastline to reach the many cosy coves and sandy inlets hidden between the cliffs towards the harbourside town of Brixham.

Of course, being so close to Dartmouth, the neighbouring town offers even more things to do; the historic 600-year-old castle, array of independent boutiques that dot the historic streets and proximity to some of the best beaches in the South West. Find out more about Dartmouth here.

Where to eat and drink in Kingswear

While most of the renowned restaurants are located in neighbouring Dartmouth with Michelin guide and award-winning restaurants, The Angel, The Seahorse and Andria calling this town home, Kingswear still offers a delightful array of eateries for a village of its size.

Kickstart the day with a breakfast from Ebb & Flow. With an array of hearty breakfast options, whether you’re after a full English, or a floury breakfast bap, Ebb & Flow is certainly the place to go. They also provide mouth-watering choices for those with special dietary requirements, so if you’re gluten-free or vegan, you’ll have a variety of options to choose from.

For a flat white and a light bite, Petite Pantry is perfect for a mid-morning or afternoon pick-me-up. Recently opened in replace of Kingswear Coffee Co, serving perfect pastries and lip-smacking cakes, this popular hangout spot draws locals and visitors alike with its comforting aroma of fresh coffee and baked goods pouring from its doors.

When dinnertime rolls around, pay a visit to Dolium, a wine and tapas bar, located on the main high street, that serves fabulously authentic Italian cuisine in the form of small plates and pizzas, alongside equally exceptional tipples. In addition to picturesque views and cosy ambiance that are best soaked up with a glass of vino in hand, they also host an array of events such as jazz nights and acoustic performances.

If pub-grub is more your preference, you shan’t be disappointed. Boasting not one, but two public houses, your thirst for hearty meals and real ales will be suitably quenched. Located opposite the station, the Steam Packet Inn offers a vast menu with classic items such as Sunday roasts, pies and burgers, alongside fresh crab salads, flatbread pizzas and tantalising small plates, seamlessly blending traditional and modern cuisine. The Ship Inn specialises in homecooked food with local and seasonal ingredients at the forefront of their menu, changing to suit the time of year. Seafood is the star of the show at this characterful 15th century pub, making the most of the region’s diverse coastal bounty.

Houses to buy in Kingswear

Whether you’re thinking of moving to Devon, or currently live in the region and want a change of pace, Kingswear is an excellent location to consider. Situated close to vibrant and bustling towns, fantastic amenities and, of course, the stunning Dart Estuary, it’s a fantastic location for those who want a waterside home in Devon. Click here to discover a range of homes or sale in Kingswear.