Stoke Gabriel

Stoke Gabriel

A Guide to Stoke Gabriel

Located on the eastern side of the River Dart between Totnes and Kingswear, is the banks of a creek in which the scenic village of Stoke Gabriel is centrally situated. A quiet but popular destination, which hosts the option for a slower pace of life if you so choose, while offering a range of days out and activities for all ages to enjoy.

Historically thought to be a fishing village, with easy access to the Dart salmon in the River, Stoke Gabriel’s rich history is also home to a 1,000-year-old ancient yew tree in the local medieval Church of St Mary and St Gabriel’s churchyard. The river’s fishing is still thriving today and now hosts an assortment of water-based activities.

What to do in Stoke Gabriel

Start by getting your bearings along the Mill Pond, the centrepiece of village life and, frankly, the sort of place that makes you wonder why you ever tolerate traffic or supermarket queues. Early risers wander down with fishing rods; the bold throw themselves in for a bracing wild swim; others push paddleboards into the still water and drift off towards the creek. Any of these options counts as “exercise” and thus entitles you to a hearty lunch later.

Once you’ve warmed up (or thawed out…), take a slow wander to the medieval Church of St Mary and St Gabriel. In the churchyard grows a thousand-year-old yew tree; a giant, ancient creature that has seen more than enough to forgive your slightly soggy paddling attire.

If the water calls again, follow it’s beckoning calls towards the coast. A short drive leads you to Elberry Cove, a quiet, shingly slip of a beach edged by woodland and far enough from the crowds to count as a genuine escape. Prefer sand? Broadsands Beach is just along the road, perfect for families, paddling and building architectural marvels out of buckets and spades.

Stoke Gabriel is also a village for wanderers. Footpaths peel away in all directions: the shoreline route at low tide to Duncannon Beach, the trail through the parish apple orchard, or, for those who enjoy a long walk with a latte (or a proper pint of beer) at the end, the four-mile stomp to Totnes. More seasoned hikers can test themselves on the Dart Valley Trail or the John Musgrave Heritage Trail, both serving up big views and proper countryside.

History lovers shouldn’t leave without visiting Greenway, Agatha Christie’s holiday home, perched above the Dart and filled with the author’s treasures, trinkets and echoes of the 1950s. Wander the walled garden, peek into the boathouse (the scene of a fictional crime, naturally), and enjoy a rare glimpse into the private world of one of Britain’s most iconic writers.

Where to eat and drink in Stoke Gabriel

Despite its modest size, Stoke Gabriel punches well above its culinary weight. Start with The Castle Inn, the village’s friendly, no-nonsense pub, the type that will keep your glass filled with local ales and ciders, the kind best enjoyed with a roaring fire in winter or a warm evening breeze in summer.Food-wise, think proper plates of comforting classics, local fish, pizzas fired to order and a Sunday Roast that has been known to silence even the chattiest tables. It’s the kind of place you pop into for one drink and leave three courses later, full and happy.

Down by the water sits The River Shack, a favourite among locals who understand the importance of good coffee, good views and food that tastes like holidays. In summer, its outdoor tables are the best seats in the village: order Brixham hake tacos, linger over a boatman’s lunch of local cheeses, and watch ducks parade past as if they own the place, which, frankly, they do.

If the wider area tempts you, you’re spoiled. Totnes is a food lover’s playground; brunch at Curator Coffee is a rite of passage, while The Bull Inn deals in seasonal, sustainable cooking with real heart. And if you feel like celebrating, Dartmouth’s Michelin-recognised restaurants, The Seahorse and Andria, are a short drive away and well worth dressing up for.

If wine is your weakness, make a beeline for Sandridge Barton Estate, home of Sharpham Wine, one of England’s finest vineyards. Wander between the rows of grapes, learn the difference between legs and tannins (and nod wisely, even if you immediately forget), and sip your way through crisp whites and elegant reds. Tastings range from quick wander-and-sip sessions to full vineyard safaris, giving you plenty of ways to indulge your inner connoisseur.

Houses to buy in Stoke Gabriel

If you’re looking for a place to call home in Devon or currently live nearby and just want a different pace of life, Stoke Gabriel offers a lifestyle rooted in natural beauty, strong community and timeless Devon charm; a beautiful location to consider with so much to offer. Located between bustling historic towns with lots of amenities and the serene views of the River Dart, it’s the perfect location for those who want a coastal countryside home in Devon. Click here to discover a range of homes for sale in Stoke Gabrielhere