Local Guide to Dartmouth, Devon
Introduction
Nestled on the banks of one of Europe’s finest estuaries, Dartmouth is a historic town full of charm and character. Renowned for its maritime connections, the town hosts the prestigious Royal Regatta and is celebrated for its frequent festivals and myriad of activities suitable for all ages.
A bit of history
Dartmouth’s natural deep-water harbour has been central to its history as a port and military hub. During the Middle Ages, Dartmouth thrived by exporting cloth from Totnes and importing wine from France and Spain. Among its oldest surviving buildings are the Cherub Inn, dating back to 1380, and The Butterwalk, constructed in 1628, which now houses the Dartmouth Museum. Although Dartmouth’s prominence waned when Plymouth became the preferred naval base, the establishment of the Britannia Royal Naval College in 1905 as a training facility for naval officers brought renewed significance to the town.
- Cherub Inn (1380): One of the oldest buildings in Dartmouth, offering a glimpse into medieval architecture.
- The Mayflower (1620) In August 1620, the Mayflower and Speedwell set off from Bayards Cove for the new world, America.
- The Butterwalk (1628): Home to the Dartmouth Museum, this structure showcases remarkable Jacobean architecture.
- Thomas Newcomen (1712) Born in Dartmouth who created the first practical fuel-burning steam engine.
- Britannia Royal Naval College: Established in 1905, this iconic red-brick building remains a pivotal training centre for the Royal Navy.
- D-Day landings (1944) From Dartmouth on June 6th, 485 ships had left the harbour in 24 hours heading for France.
Shopping & Dartmouth
Dartmouth boasts a vibrant shopping scene with a variety of supermarkets catering to all budgets, local markets brimming with fresh produce and an array of boutique shops and high street franchises. The town is also renowned for its quality restaurants, bistros and cafes ensuring an enjoyable shopping and dining experience.
From upscale restaurants to cosy bistros and charming cafes, Dartmouth offers a culinary scene that caters to all tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, traditional or international cuisine, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your palate.
Festivals & Events
Dartmouth has around 20 events each, on land and on the water.
The Dartmouth Music Festival (May) https://www.dartmusicfestival.co.uk
The Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta (August) https://www.dartmouthregatta.co.uk
Dartmouth Food Festival (October) https://www.dartmouthfoodfestival.com
Other events include:
- Dartmouth Pride
- Shakespeare Week
- Galleries Week
- Fishing Festival
- Sailing Regattas
- Tractor of Lights (New to 2024!)
Hotels
Dartmouth offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you’re looking for the personalized charm of bespoke guest houses, the flexibility of private rentals, or the luxury of established waterfront hotels, you’ll find something that fits your needs in this picturesque town.
Bayards Cove Inn, Bayards Cove, Dartmouth https://bayardscoveinn.co.uk
Steeped in rich history and nestled in one of Dartmouth’s most picturesque locations, Bayards Cove Inn offers a unique blend of heritage and modern comforts, this remarkable inn dates back to the 14th century and stands as the second oldest building in Dartmouth. With its licensed café, bar, and restaurant, Bayards Cove Inn promises a delightful culinary experience alongside a deep connection to the past. Staying at Bayards Cove Inn is like stepping back in time, with all the comforts of modern living. Each nook and cranny of this quirky, ancient building exudes warmth and character. The intimate townhouse atmosphere creates a welcoming space where history and hospitality combine to provide an unforgettable experience.
The Dart Marina Hotel, Dartmouth https://www.dartmarina.com
A sophisticated haven nestled on the banks of the River Dart. Proudly independent and steeped in classic charm, Dart Marina offers an exquisite blend of luxury and comfort, making it the perfect base for exploring the historic beauty of Dartmouth. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape, a culinary adventure, or a launching point for nautical explorations, Dart Marina provides an unparalleled experience.
Andria, Lower Street, Dartmouth https://andriadartmouth.com/restaurant
Andria is a contemporary bistro located on Lower Street in Dartmouth, known for its innovative approach to modern European cuisine. The head chef, Luca, brings a unique culinary background to the table—born in Paris, raised on Italian home cooking, and trained in the UK. This blend of influences is reflected in the restaurant’s menu, which features a creative selection of small plates. The dishes at Andria highlight local ingredients, particularly fresh produce from nearby Brixham and Torbay, ensuring a vibrant and authentic dining experience. The restaurant’s focus on quality and originality makes it a delightful spot for those looking to enjoy sophisticated yet approachable European fare.
The Seahorse https://seahorserestaurant.co.uk
Since its inception in 2008, The Seahorse has become a cornerstone of Dartmouth’s vibrant dining scene. Renowned for its commitment to conversation, debate, and exceptional seafood, The Seahorse is a testament to the culinary vision of its founders, Mat Prowse and Mitch Tonks. Nestled in the picturesque town of Dartmouth, The Seahorse seamlessly blends the rich culinary traditions of Italy with the finest local ingredients from the heart of Devon.
The Angel https://theangeldartmouth.co.uk
Elly Wentworth’s culinary journey is as inspiring as it is impressive. A former finalist on ‘MasterChef: The Professionals’ in 2016, Elly quickly became known for her meticulous approach and innovative techniques. Elly’s arrival at The Angel was marked by her vision to craft a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. The restaurant’s resilience and dedication were particularly evident earning a coveted place in the Michelin Guide, a testament to Elly’s unwavering pursuit of culinary perfection.
Kendricks Dartmouth https://kendricks.life
Kendricks Dartmouth’s menu is a culinary passport, offering dishes that draw inspiration from across the globe. From vibrant Mediterranean salads to rich Asian-inspired mains and everything in between, our offerings are designed to tantalize the taste buds and provide a culinary adventure with every bite. To complement our diverse food selection, we offer a curated list of wines from renowned vineyards and a variety of local draught beers and ciders. Whether you’re a connoisseur or simply enjoying a casual drink, our beverage options enhance the overall dining experience, providing the perfect pairing for any dish.
Cafes
Café Alfresco https://cafealfresco.co.uk
Whether you’re looking to catch up with friends over a coffee, enjoy a leisurely breakfast, or savour a hearty lunch, Café Alf Resco is your perfect destination in Dartmouth. Fondly known as Alf’s, this charming café is celebrated for its cosy ambiance, diverse menu, and commitment to supporting local suppliers.
Smith Street Deli, Smith Street, Dartmouth
Your go-to spot for a delightful culinary experience in the heart of Dartmouth. Nestled in this charming town, this independent deli and coffee shop is more than just a place to grab a bite—it’s a destination for food lovers and community members alike. Whether you’re in for a quick coffee, a light lunch, or to pick up some gourmet provisions, Smith Street Deli offers something special for everyone.
Woodroast Coffee, Smith Street, Dartmouth
Just steps away from the picturesque River Dart, Woodroast offers a warm, inviting escape for coffee enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Known for its exceptional coffee and welcoming ambiance, Woodroast stands out as a cherished independent café in the heart of Dartmouth. Whether you’re in the mood for a perfect cup of locally blended coffee or a cosy spot to relax, Woodroast is the place to be.
Marinas
The Dart Marina, Dartmouth. https://www.dartmarina.com/yacht-harbour
Dart Marina’s Yacht Harbour offers a premier yachting experience in one of the West Country’s most stunning estuaries. It provides a luxurious and secure environment, complete with top-tier facilities and exclusive amenities. Entering Dartmouth by sea is a picturesque journey through two historic castles, and its strategic location makes it an ideal destination for yachts traveling from France and the Channel Islands. The marina provides a variety of berthing options—annual, summer, or winter—and accommodates yachts stopping over for just one night or for extended stays. Security is enhanced with 24/7 access through key card-controlled electronic gates. For annual berth-holders, the experience is even more special, as they can enjoy discounted dining at the marina’s hotel restaurant and gain easy access to events like the Dartmouth Regatta. With fully serviced berths and a well-maintained facilities block, Dart Marina’s Yacht Harbour is a top choice for anyone seeking a premium yachting destination.
Dart Haven Marina, Kingswear. http://www.darthaven.co.uk
Darthaven Marina, located on the starboard side as you enter the river, is the first marina you’ll encounter. There is an on-site chandlery and other services with parking. The staff always strives to accommodate vessels up to 20 metres (65 feet) in length, ensuring your visit is as seamless as possible.
Noss on the Dart, Kingswear. https://www.premiermarinas.com/marinas/noss-on-dart-marina
Noss on Dart Marina offers exceptional facilities and effortless access to the beautiful South West. The marina has undergone significant upgrades and now boasts a state-of-the-art floating marina, dry stack boat storage, and a luxury berth holder lounge. It is also home to a variety of marine specialists, ensuring that all boating needs are catered to with professional expertise. Upcoming developments include a purpose-built café serving locally sourced produce, along with a hotel, spa, and deluxe residences, which will further enhance the marina’s appeal. In addition to marina berthing, Noss on Dart offers several deep-water moorings along the river’s west bank. The marina’s full-service boatyard employs cutting-edge technology to minimize environmental impact, and its travel hoist— the largest on the River Dart— offers deep-water access, ensuring smooth handling of vessels. Premier’s team of specialists is always available to attend to boats, backed by a comprehensive array of marine services housed within the marina’s new facilities.
Blackness Marina https://blacknessmarine.co.uk
Blackness Marine has become a key provider of accessible, stress-free boating experiences on the River Dart. With decades of expertise and a customer-first approach, Blackness Marine focuses on delivering personalized services to help sailors maximize their time on the water. Blackness Marine’s purpose-built dry stack facility offers both covered berths in a spacious hangar and galvanised outside rack berths on sheltered hardstanding. Members enjoy various benefits, including: There is on-site workshops house a full range of professional local trades that provide comprehensive engineering and maintenance services. Supported by a network of approved external contractors, they offer a range of solutions for all your boating needs while ashore:
Yacht Clubs
Dartmouth Yacht Club.https://www.dyc.org.uk
Dartmouth Yacht Club is a vibrant community water sports and social hub located in the heart of Dartmouth, overlooking the stunning River Dart. Open to everyone—whether residents, visitors, boat owners, or non-boat owners—the club offers a welcoming environment with a wide range of activities and social opportunities. With affordable membership fees and a focus on inclusivity, the club aims to encourage as many people as possible to take advantage of its prime riverside location. The club boasts an impressive fleet of over 70 canoes, kayaks, paddle boards, and dinghies, all available for members to use free of charge. Additionally, members can hire two motorboats for more leisurely or adventurous excursions on the river. The club’s focus is on participation, making water sports accessible to all. The clubhouse, situated on the Embankment, offers fantastic views of the River Dart and features a newly refurbished bar with both indoor and outdoor seating. It’s a perfect place to relax, socialise, and enjoy the scenery. The club’s restaurant serves freshly prepared food, making it a delightful spot for members and visitors alike to enjoy a meal. Whether you’re looking to get involved in water sports or simply enjoy the social atmosphere and beautiful riverside setting, Dartmouth Yacht Club is an inviting place for all.
The Royal Dart Yacht Club, Kingswear. https://www.royaldart.co.uk
Established in 1866, the club was founded by Stoke Gabriel landowner Henry Studdy and a group of friends. Today, the club continues to embrace its storied past while offering a welcoming atmosphere for sailors and social members alike. The club’s terrace, with its unrivalled views of the River Dart, is a prime spot to enjoy the river’s lively activity year-round. Whether you’re sipping a glass of wine or savouring a pint of ale, the terrace provides a perfect vantage point to watch the comings and goings on the water. Combining its rich sailing history with top-tier amenities and a lively social program, the Royal Dart Yacht Club remains a cherished destination for sailors and social members on the River Dart.
Dartmouth is a delightful destination that beautifully blends historical charm with modern amenities. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a maritime lover, or simply seeking a picturesque getaway, Dartmouth offers a unique and memorable experience for all.
If you are thinking of a move to Dartmouth, our specific area information will help you learn more about this jewel of the South Hams, situated on the banks of the picturesque River Dart.
