Things to Do in Dartmouth, Devon: A Complete Visitor Guide

Dartmouth is one of our favourite destinations in Devon. We have travelled there by car, bus, train and even in our own boat, and we also have family connections in the immediate area. However you arrive, Dartmouth makes an immediate impression.

The first thing you notice is the River Dart. It is wide, deep and full of movement, with ferries, boats and yachts crossing between Dartmouth and Kingswear. The surrounding green hills of Devon give the town a sheltered, almost timeless feel, while Dartmouth, Kingswear and the nearby Dart villages all have a quiet calm that helps you slow down.

We last visited Dartmouth in June 2026, travelling by train to Paignton and then onwards by bus to Kingswear. From there, it is a short ferry ride of around five minutes across the River Dart into Dartmouth town centre.

Dartmouth is one of South Devon’s most recognisable harbour towns, set on the western bank of the River Dart opposite Kingswear. With its waterfront, ferries, castle, historic streets, boat trips, and nearby beaches, it is a great choice for a day trip, weekend break, or a longer South Devon stay.

This guide covers the best things to do in Dartmouth, Devon, including Dartmouth Castle, Dartmouth Harbour, the town centre, river trips, walks, nearby National Trust places, beaches and practical travel advice.

Dartmouth suits several types of visits. You can keep things simple with a harbour walk, coffee and a ferry crossing, or build a full day around castles, coast paths, boat trips and nearby places to visit. If you are wondering what to do in Dartmouth, whether Dartmouth is worth visiting, or how to plan a day in and around the town, this guide will help you make the most of your visit.

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Map of Dartmouth Town Centre

Use the map below to get your bearings and zoom in before exploring Dartmouth town centre. Many of the main things to do in Dartmouth are close to the waterfront, Royal Avenue Gardens, the Boat Float, Duke Street, Foss Street and Bayard’s Cove.

Dartmouth is compact and best explored on foot, but driving through the town can be slow. The roads are often narrow, sometimes steep, and parking in the centre is limited, especially during busy periods.

For visits, it is easier to park once, use the Dartmouth Park and Ride, arrive by ferry from Kingswear, or use public transport where practical. From the harbour, you can walk to ferry crossings, boat trips, independent shops, cafés, historic streets and riverside viewpoints within a short distance.

A Brief History of Dartmouth

Dartmouth’s history is closely tied to the River Dart and the sea. The town developed as a port, trading centre and defensive harbour, with its deep-water setting giving it strategic importance for centuries.

The town’s maritime past can still be seen around the waterfront, Bayard’s Cove, Dartmouth Castle and the narrow streets behind the harbour. The Butterwalk, built around 1640, is one of Dartmouth’s most notable historic buildings and now houses Dartmouth Museum.

Dartmouth Castle has guarded the entrance to the Dart Estuary for more than 600 years. English Heritage describes it as one of England’s most beautifully situated fortresses, with installations that explain its story through to the Second World War.

Dartmouth also has a strong naval connection through Britannia Royal Naval College, which stands above the town. Its presence reinforces Dartmouth’s long association with ships, training, defence and the wider maritime world.

Things to Do in Dartmouth, Devon

For most people, the best things to do in Dartmouth begin by the water. The harbour and embankment will be the focus of most visits, with boats, ferries, river views, and a vibrant waterfront atmosphere that in summer features live music.

Explore Dartmouth Harbour

Dartmouth Harbour is the heart of the town. The River Dart widens here before reaching the sea, with Kingswear rising on the opposite bank and boats moving between the moorings, ferry landings and river piers.

A simple waterfront walk is one of the best free things to do in Dartmouth. Start near Royal Avenue Gardens, look across to Kingswear, then continue towards Bayard’s Cove for older streets and harbour views.

This is also the best place to get your bearings. Boat trips, ferries, cafés, pubs, shops and many Dartmouth attractions are all within a short walk.

Explore Dartmouth Town Centre

Dartmouth town centre is one of the main reasons we enjoy visiting. It has a proper harbour-town feel, with independent shops, cafés, galleries, old streets, food shops, outdoor stores, chandlery shops, and river views all close together.

Start around Royal Avenue Gardens and the Boat Float, then explore Duke Street, Foss Street, Fairfax Place, Higher Street, Lower Street and the lanes behind the waterfront. Foss Street is especially good for art galleries, boutiques and smaller independent shops, while Duke Street has The Butterwalk and Dartmouth Museum.

We enjoy Dartmouth because the shops feel different from a standard high street. You will find coastal clothing, art, gifts, homewares, books, local food, sailing kit and outdoor gear, rather than rows of the same national chains.

The Old Market Square is worth a look, with specialist shops and regular market days. Dartmouth Artisan Market is usually held on the second Saturday of the month.

For practical shopping, Dartmouth has town centre convenience stores and food shops, plus larger supermarkets further up the hill. The town centre is also a natural place to stop between ferry crossings, boat trips and walks.

Visit Dartmouth Castle

Dartmouth Castle is one of the main historic places to visit in Dartmouth, standing at the entrance to the Dart Estuary, with views towards Kingswear Castle and the coast. It has guarded the river for more than 600 years, with its gun tower, harbour chain, passageways and displays telling the story of Dartmouth’s maritime defence.

On our last visit, we took the Dartmouth Castle Ferry from Dartmouth and walked back into town. The ferry trip takes around 10 minutes and gives some of the best views of Dartmouth, Kingswear and both castles from the River Dart.

In 2026, ferry fares were £3.50 per adult and £2.50 for under-14s, with dogs travelling free. English Heritage currently says dogs are welcome at Dartmouth Castle on leads, and assistance dogs are welcome too.

Other dog-friendly things to do in Dartmouth include harbour walks, ferry crossings and boat trips, coast path routes, pub stops and Dartmouth Castle, where dogs are welcome on leads.

Dartmouth Castle Tea Rooms are right by the castle and are handy before or after a visit. St Petrox Church is next door and is worth a brief look for its beautiful estuary setting.

For sat nav, use TQ6 0JN. There is a small public car park close by (charges apply), including disabled spaces. When full, there may be free roadside parking on Castle Road, although spaces are limited and the road is narrow.

Always check the current ferry, castle and tea room times before travelling.

Walk to Bayard’s Cove Fort

The walk back from Dartmouth Castle to Dartmouth town centre is just over a mile and takes around 30 minutes. It follows the South West Coast Path, which crosses the River Dart by ferry between Dartmouth and Kingswear.

From the castle, the route passes through Warfleet, a small waterside area tucked between Dartmouth and the estuary entrance. Warfleet Creek was busy with kayakers and stand-up paddleboarders when we visited, and it is one of the prettiest parts of the walk.

For much of the route, you get views across the Dart, with several benches where you can stop and watch the boats. You also pass some of the impressive houses that line this sought-after stretch of the estuary.

Shortly before reaching Dartmouth, the coast path turns right and drops down steps towards Bayard’s Cove. This brings you through Bayard’s Cove Fort, a small 16th-century artillery fort built to help defend Dartmouth’s harbour.

It is much smaller than Dartmouth Castle, but it adds context to the town’s defences. The surrounding streets are among Dartmouth’s most atmospheric, with old buildings, slipways, stone walls and glimpses of the river as you return to the waterfront.

Visit Britannia Royal Naval College

Britannia Royal Naval College is one of Dartmouth’s most recognisable landmarks, standing high above the River Dart. Its large Edwardian buildings can be seen from the waterfront, Kingswear and many river ferries.

The college has trained Royal Navy officers for more than a century and gives Dartmouth a close naval connection alongside its harbour, castle and ferry history. Even if you do not tour inside, it is a major part of the town’s skyline.

Guided public tours are available on selected dates throughout the year. They usually start from the Bandstand in Royal Avenue Gardens, with transport by small coach to the college, followed by a walking tour lasting around 2¼ hours.

Britannia Royal Naval College is a working military establishment, so photo ID is required for visitors aged 16 or over. Tours should be booked in advance, and availability can change, so check the Britannia Association website before planning your visit.

For many people, the best views of the college are from the River Dart, Kingswear, the passenger ferry or a river cruise.

Take a River Dart Boat Trip

A River Dart boat trip is one of the best things to do in Dartmouth, but it does not have to mean a full cruise. Even the short ferry to Kingswear gives you a quick, inexpensive view of Dartmouth from the river.

Dartmouth to Kingswear Passenger Ferry

The Dartmouth to Kingswear Passenger Ferry runs between Dartmouth Town Jetty and Kingswear, close to the steam railway station. It takes around five minutes, runs as a frequent shuttle, and adult fares were around £2.50, according to the 2026 Dart Harbour guide.

It is a simple way to enjoy the water, especially if you arrive by steam train or bus via Kingswear.

Dartmouth Round Robin Trip

For a fuller day out, we think the Round Robin is the classic River Dart experience and one of the best things to do in Devon. It combines a steam train, a river boat and a bus, linking Paignton, Dartmouth and Totnes.

It is a great way to visit Dartmouth without a car.

River Dart Cruise

A shorter option is a one-hour River Dart cruise from Dartmouth. Greenway Ferry runs cruises from Dartmouth Town Pontoon, Dittisham or Greenway Quay.

Routes can include views of Britannia Royal Naval College, Sir Walter Raleigh’s Boathouse, Greenway Estate and Dittisham village. In 2026, these cruises were listed at £10 per person.

Dartmouth to Dittisham Ferry

For a proper river village trip, we recommend Dittisham. It is a quintessential River Dart village, with steep lanes, waterside views, the Ferry Boat Inn and a real sense of estuary life.

Dittisham Ferries runs Dartmouth-to-Dittisham services from Dartmouth Town Pontoon, usually between March and November, with regular sailings in season.

Dartmouth to Greenway Ferry

Greenway is another excellent choice from Dartmouth. The former holiday home of Agatha Christie is reached by Greenway Ferry to Greenway Quay, with seasonal services from Dartmouth Town Pontoon.

National Trust entry is separate, so check both ferry times and Greenway opening details before travelling.

Dittisham to Greenway Ferry

There is also a small ferry from Dittisham to Greenway that takes about five minutes to cross the river. It is summoned by ringing the bell at Dittisham Pontoon or Greenway Quay.

This is a handy way to combine Dittisham, Greenway and river walking in one trip.

Dartmouth Higher and Lower Ferry

For crossing the Dart rather than cruising, Dartmouth also has the Lower Ferry and Higher Ferry. The Lower Ferry runs between central Dartmouth and Kingswear, carrying vehicles, cyclists and foot passengers.

The Higher Ferry runs further upriver, links into the A379, operates all year, and saves a long road detour between Dartmouth and Kingswear.

Both vehicle ferries are practical crossings, but they are also part of the Dartmouth experience. In season, queues for the Higher Ferry and Lower Ferry can be considerable, so allow extra time if you are driving.

Even so, the short crossing is memorable, with close-up views of the river, boats and steep banks on either side.

Watersports, Boat Hire and Getting on the River Dart

Dartmouth is a brilliant base for getting on the water, whether by ferry, river cruise, kayak, paddleboard, sailing trip or boat hire. The River Dart is wide around the town, with ferries, moorings, sheltered sections and quieter creeks further upstream.

On our June 2026 visit, Warfleet Creek was busy with kayakers and stand-up paddleboarders. Blackpool Sands also offers kayak and paddleboard hire in season, including guided coastal trips.

For paddleboarding in Dartmouth, The Paddle Shack runs SUP lessons and tours on the River Dart. Sea Kayak Devon is another key local operator, with guided trips, sea kayak courses, paddleboard sessions and longer coastal adventures.

There are also options for casual kayak and paddleboard hire around Dittisham, plus motorboat and RIB hire from Dartmouth. Check requirements carefully, as some self-drive boats need no licence, while faster RIB hire may require experience or a skipper.

Tides, wind and river traffic matter here. The Dart is beautiful, but it is also a working river with ferries, trip boats and changing conditions. The Dart Harbour Guide contains detailed information for water users and is worth reading before setting out. Beginners should use recognised hire companies or guided sessions, and always check local safety advice.

Visit Kingswear

For us, Kingswear and Dartmouth are closely linked, and no visit to one feels complete without crossing the river. If you approach from Paignton, Kingswear is often your first proper glimpse of the River Dart. In all but the worst weather, the view across to Dartmouth, the ferries, and the wooded hills is hard to beat.

Kingswear is directly opposite Dartmouth, with colourful houses rising above the waterfront. It is also the arrival point for the Dartmouth Steam Railway from Paignton.

The village has long been connected with ferries, river traffic, trade and coastal defence. Kingswear Castle, a 15th-century artillery tower, still stands opposite Dartmouth Castle and helps show the historic importance of the Dart Estuary.

Kingswear is also good for walking. The path towards the Higher Ferry gives excellent river views, while longer routes connect with the Dart Valley Trail, Greenway, Coleton Fishacre and Brownstone Battery.

For a simple visit, take the passenger ferry from Dartmouth to Kingswear, walk along the waterfront, watch the steam trains, and enjoy the view back across the Dart.

Ride the Dartmouth Steam Railway to or from Kingswear

Dartmouth does not have its own railway station. Instead, trains arrive at Kingswear, across the River Dart, where the Dartmouth Steam Railway connects with Paignton.

The line opened to Kingswear in the 1860s as part of South Devon’s railway expansion. Today, it is one of the most memorable car-free ways to visit Dartmouth, combining steam-train travel, coastal views, and the short ferry crossing into town.

This is a good option if you are visiting Dartmouth from Paignton, Brixham or Torquay. You can travel one way by bus and the other by steam railway, or include it as part of the Round Robin route linking train, river boat and bus.

For us, the Round Robin is one of the best days out in Devon. We have done it several times, and it brings together coast, countryside, river scenery, steam railway travel and Dartmouth in one trip.

Good places to watch the trains include Kingswear waterfront, the path towards the Higher Ferry, Goodrington Beach in Paignton, and parts of the coastal footpath between Goodrington and Broadsands.

Visit Dartmouth Museum

Dartmouth Museum is housed in The Butterwalk on Duke Street, one of the town’s most distinctive historic buildings. The terrace dates from around 1640 and is known for its leaning structure, uneven floors and old merchant-house character.

The museum covers Dartmouth’s maritime, trading and social history, with displays on ships, local families, Dartmouth pottery, Thomas Newcomen, the Mayflower story and the town’s wider links with the sea. The King’s Room is one of the highlights, associated with King Charles II’s stay in Dartmouth during a storm in 1671.

Unfortunately, Dartmouth Museum was closed when we last visited, as was the Dartmouth Tourist Information Centre, but that gives us a good excuse to return. The Tourist Information Centre is by the Mayor’s Avenue car park, close to the Newcomen Engine House, which contains the preserved Newcomen Memorial Engine. It is widely described as the world’s oldest surviving steam engine and commemorates Thomas Newcomen, who was born in Dartmouth.

Dartmouth Museum is one of the most interesting indoor activities in Dartmouth, especially on a wet day. For rainy days in Dartmouth, also look at The Flavel Arts Centre, cafés, pubs, galleries, independent shops, covered ferry crossings and boat trips.

Dartmouth Museum is at The Butterwalk, Duke Street, Dartmouth, TQ6 9PZ.

Visit Greenway

Greenway is one of the best places to visit near Dartmouth, especially if you are interested in Agatha Christie, River Dart scenery or National Trust houses. Set above the river near Galmpton, close to Brixham, it was Agatha Christie’s much-loved holiday home, and she famously called it “the loveliest place in the world”.

The Georgian house is presented with 1950s interiors and family collections, including books, first editions and objects gathered by Christie and her family. Outside, the estate has walled gardens, woodland paths, riverside views, a boathouse linked to Dead Man’s Folly, and a 1790s gun battery built as a Napoleonic defence.

Greenway is a good half-day trip from Dartmouth, and arriving is the best way to visit. Seasonal ferries run from Dartmouth to Greenway Quay, and there is also a small Dittisham to Greenway ferry, which can be called by ringing the bell at either side.

You can also visit by car via Greenway Road, Galmpton, near Brixham, TQ5 0ES. Parking must usually be booked in advance through the National Trust, and availability is not guaranteed without a reservation. Larger vehicles are restricted, and there is no parking on Greenway Road or in Galmpton village.

For walkers, Greenway can be reached from Kingswear via the Dart Valley Trail, or from Dartmouth by combining ferry crossings and riverside paths. It can also be linked with Churston, Broadsands or the Dartmouth Steam Railway for a longer day out.

There is a café, a shop, and a second-hand bookshop on site, making it a possible option in mixed weather. Check current National Trust opening times, admission details, parking requirements and ferry services before travelling, as access varies by season.

Things to Do Near Dartmouth

Dartmouth is a good base for exploring the River Dart, the South Hams and the English Riviera. Once you have seen the harbour, castle, ferries and town centre, there are several easy trips nearby.

Coleton Fishacre

Coleton Fishacre, near Kingswear, is another excellent National Trust option. It combines a 1920s country house, Art Deco interiors, coastal gardens and access towards the South West Coast Path.

Blackpool Sands

Blackpool Sands is one of the best-known beaches near Dartmouth. It is a privately owned shingle beach near Stoke Fleming, with food, parking, watersports, toilets, showers and seasonal facilities.

Woodlands Family Theme Park

Families may want to look at Woodlands Family Theme Park, about five miles from Dartmouth on the A3122. It has rides, indoor play, animals and all-weather activities.

Slapton Ley and Slapton Sands

For wildlife, walking and coastal scenery, Slapton Ley is a good South Hams day out. The freshwater lake is separated from the sea by the long shingle beach at Slapton Sands.

Totnes

Totnes is another place to visit near Dartmouth, especially if you are travelling by train or bus. It gives you a different side of the River Dart, with historic streets, a castle, independent shops, markets and seasonal boat links to Dartmouth.

Dartington

A visit to Dartington can be combined with a visit to Totnes or the wider River Dart. Dartington Hall has gardens, arts, events, places to eat and riverside walks nearby, while the estate gives a quieter contrast to Dartmouth’s harbour and ferry traffic.

It works especially well for couples, garden lovers, walkers and anyone planning a slower South Devon break. If you are staying near Totnes, Dartington is one of the easiest places to add to a Dartmouth trip.

South Devon Railway

The South Devon Railway is another good day out near Dartmouth, especially for steam railway fans. It runs between Buckfastleigh and Totnes Riverside, following the River Dart through attractive countryside.

Brixham, Paignton and Torquay

Torbay is within reach. Brixham is best for harbour life, seafood, Berry Head and the breakwater, while Paignton links well with the Dartmouth Steam Railway. Torquay offers beaches, marina walks, and wider English Riviera facilities.

Walks Near Dartmouth

For quieter walks, look at Little Dartmouth, Gallants Bower, Brownstone Battery, the Dart Valley Trail and the coast path towards Stoke Fleming, Strete and Start Point. These are better saved for a dedicated Dartmouth walks or South Hams coast guide.

What’s On in Dartmouth, Devon: Festivals and Seasonal Highlights

Dartmouth has a lively events calendar, with the waterfront giving many festivals a natural setting. If you are looking for what’s on in Dartmouth, expect maritime events, food festivals, music, theatre, markets and seasonal celebrations.

The biggest annual event is the Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta, usually held in late August. It brings rowing, sailing, music, fireworks, markets and shoreside activity to both Dartmouth and Kingswear.

Other regular highlights include Dart Music Festival in May, Dartmouth Shakespeare Week in summer and Dartmouth Food Festival in October. The Flavel Arts Centre also adds cinema, theatre, talks, live music and community events throughout the year.

Dartmouth Old Market Square is worth checking during your visit. Main market days are usually held on Tuesdays and Fridays, with extra Thursday markets in the summer high season. Saturday markets often vary by week, including tabletop, farmers’, emporium and artisan markets.

Dartmouth is a good town to plan a short break around an event, but accommodation can book quickly during regatta week and festival weekends. For more ideas across the region, see our guide to what’s on in South West England. Always check current dates, market days and event details before travelling, as programmes can change.

How to Get to Dartmouth and Travel Around

Dartmouth is not difficult to reach, but it is worth planning your route. The town has narrow streets, steep approaches, and limited parking, so the best option depends on whether you want convenience, scenery, or a relaxed, car-free arrival.

By car, you can approach via Totnes, Kingsbridge or the Kingswear ferries. The Lower Ferry runs between central Kingswear and Dartmouth, while the Higher Ferry crosses further upriver. Both are usable, but peak-season queues can be hot, slow and lengthy.

If driving, Dartmouth Park and Ride is often the better choice. It is on the A3122 near Lidl and Sainsbury’s. Use TQ6 9LW for sat nav, and check current dates, fares and bus times before travelling.

The Mayor’s Avenue Car Park is the most central option, close to the waterfront, Boat Float and Royal Avenue Gardens. Spaces fill quickly in summer. The Dartmouth Health Hub and Leisure Centre car park is another option further up the hill.

For us, Dartmouth is best visited by public transport. From Paignton, take Stagecoach service 120 to Kingswear, then cross by passenger ferry. From Totnes, Stagecoach service 92 runs to Dartmouth.

You can also arrive by steam railway, river cruise or ferry. Once there, Dartmouth town centre is best explored on foot.

Where to Eat and Drink in Dartmouth

Dartmouth is a delight for food lovers, with some of the best places to eat in South Devon packed into a fairly small harbour town. Seafood is the obvious starting point, but you will also find pubs, cafés, bakeries, bistros, delis and relaxed places for coffee or lunch.

The Seahorse is one of Dartmouth’s best-known restaurants, with a waterside dining room and a menu led by fresh fish from Brixham. Rockfish Dartmouth is another excellent seafood choice, especially if you want something more informal.

For a smaller restaurant meal, Andria is often mentioned among Dartmouth’s better independent dining options. Kendricks is a long-standing town centre choice for steak, seafood and family-friendly dining.

Pontoon is worth considering for its setting. It occupies the old Dartmouth railway station building on the embankment, now operating as a terrace, bar and restaurant. When we passed on a Saturday afternoon, it had a lively feel, with an outdoor bar, river views and live music.

For a traditional pub, The Cherub is well worth listing. We have eaten there before and remember it as very traditional and very good.

Other places include Bayards Cove Inn and Café Al Fresco. In summer, book ahead for the better-known restaurants, and check recent reviews before choosing.

Where to Stay in Dartmouth, Devon

Dartmouth has a good range of places to stay, including historic inns, boutique hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs, self-catering cottages, and apartments. Staying in Dartmouth town centre is ideal if you want harbour views, restaurants, ferries and boat trips close by.

Accommodation can be very expensive in peak season, especially during school holidays, regatta week and summer weekends. Compare dates carefully, check recent reviews, and book early if you want a central room with a river view.

At the upper end, The Royal Castle is one of Dartmouth’s classic places to stay, central to all the action, overlooking the harbour from a historic town-centre building. Dart Marina Hotel is another higher-end choice, beside the River Dart and slightly away from the busiest streets.

Bayards Cove Inn is worth considering if you want atmosphere, with the lower waterfront and Dartmouth Castle walk nearby. If on a budget, look at smaller guesthouses, B&Bs, and rooms above pubs or restaurants.

Kingswear is also worth checking, with views back across the Dart and easy access by passenger ferry. For quieter or better-value stays, look around Stoke Fleming, Dittisham, Blackawton, Strete, Totnes or Torbay. These can reduce costs while keeping Dartmouth, the River Dart and the wider South Hams all within easy reach.

Weather in Dartmouth, Devon: When to Visit

Dartmouth has a mild South Devon coastal climate, with the best visitor weather usually from late spring to early autumn. May, June, July and September are often good choices if you want longer days without the busiest school-holiday crowds.

Summer is ideal for boat trips, beaches, outdoor eating and evenings around the harbour. It is also the busiest and most expensive time, especially during school holidays and regatta week.

If possible, we think Dartmouth is best enjoyed outside the main school holidays. The town is still lively, but ferries, parking, restaurants and narrow streets are usually easier to manage.

Spring is good for walking, gardens, and exploring quieter towns. Autumn can be excellent for Dartmouth Food Festival, river views and coast path walks, although daylight is shorter and the weather can change quickly.

Winter has a more local feel. Some boat services, cafés and seasonal places may reduce hours, so check before travelling.

Before setting off, it is worth checking the Met Office forecast for Dartmouth, BBC Weather for Dartmouth and a local Dartmouth webcam. The webcam allows a quick look at river conditions, visibility and how busy the waterfront appears.

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Practical Information for Visiting Dartmouth, Devon

Other Helpful Links

• Booking.com – for most accommodation needs. Look out for options that include free cancellation.
• Easy Tide – Free UK tidal prediction service, providing tidal data and tide times for the current day and 6 days into the future.
• Expedia – good for flights and packages.
• GetYourGuide – find and book things to see. Includes unusual things to do.
• Hostelworld – Hostel-focused booking platform that fosters backpack connections.
• MetOffice – Weather forecasts from the UK’s official meteorological office.
• National Express – UK-based coach operator providing long-distance bus services
• Omio – Book travel tickets by comparing trains, buses and planes in one search.
• Rental Cars – to search out and book hire cars.
• Rome2Rio – Great for comparing local transport options (and for locating bus stops).
• Ticketmaster – What’s On – Major Events – Venues – Bookings
• Trainline.com – our go-to online platform for booking train and bus tickets, offering route planning, price comparisons, seat reservations, and ticket sales.
• Traffic England – for live traffic updates on major roads.
• Traveline SW – Comprehensive public transport information from A to B by bus, coach, train, ferry in South West England and Great Britain.
• TripAdvisor – for reviews of… pretty much everything. Our go-to before booking anything.
• Vrbo – Great for self-catering and vacation holiday home rentals.

Is Dartmouth Worth Visiting?

Yes, emphatically. Along with Salcombe, Dartmouth is probably one of the most interesting and beautiful places to visit in South Devon, especially if you enjoy being outdoors.

We love Dartmouth for the scenery, the green hills around the River Dart, the boating, the ferries, the walking and the water itself. It has a history, harbour views, independent shops, good places to eat, river trips, nearby beaches, and some excellent days out.

Dartmouth can be expensive, especially in peak season, but it does not have to be. Some of the ferries give you fantastic views from the river without costing very much, and the bus links from Paignton and Totnes are surprisingly straightforward.

It is particularly good for couples, walkers, food lovers, history fans and anyone who enjoys boats or watersports. Families can also enjoy Dartmouth Castle, river trips, crabbing, nearby beaches and short walks.

The main drawbacks are summer crowds, parking pressure and the steep streets behind the waterfront. If you can visit outside school holidays, Dartmouth is easier to enjoy.

For a first visit, allow at least a full day. For a longer trip, stay one or two nights and combine the town with Kingswear, the River Dart, Blackpool Sands, Greenway, Dittisham or Coleton Fishacre.

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