Dartmouth is located on the south coast of Devon, a little further down the coast than the more famous English Riviera. Despite it's famous neighbour, Dartmouth has to be one of Devon's biggest attractions. Consider it's idyllic location, set at the mouth of the beautiful River Dart and surrounded by equally beautiful woodland, and it is easy to see why.
The
heart of Dartmouth
Pleasant walks can be taken along the New Quay which runs along the river
side. The River Dart itself is the heart of Dartmouth and generations of sailors
have set out across the world from this ancient harbour. Richard the Lionheart's
crusaders were amongst many of those using the harbour during Dartmouth's
colourful history.
Dartmouth today
But Dartmouth is a much quieter affair these days, more suited to a stroll
down by the riverside, whilst watching the many boats and yachts sail by.
Or maybe sit back and relax with a glass of wine, as you listen to the band
striking up in the bandstand.
Dartmouth and the River Dart
The River Dart is also the reason why Dartmouth has become a haven for yachtsmen
and visiting tourists alike, acting as a pleasant and popular stop off for
experienced yachtsmen, and a never ending spectacle for tourists. However,
those without boats can still enjoy the boating spirit of Dartmouth, by taking
one of the many river trips or sailing
boat excursions departing regularly up the coast to Brixham and Torbay.
There are also wildlife
cruises that run all along the South Devon Coastline, or self-drive
boats if you're feeling adventurous. Bigbury Bay, with it's famous Burgh
Island is well worth calling into. Dartmouth even has sailing
schools, should you feel you need for a little seafaring tuition first!
And for that really special nautical occasion, or maybe just for the sheer
pleasure of dining on the river, why not try The
Picnic Boat where you can relax and enjoy a timeless Devon Cream Tea or
a romantic champagne breakfast on the beautiful River Dart.
Dartmouth Town
But getting out onto the water isn't the only thing Dartmouth has to offer.
It has a whole host of fine bistros, restaurants, boutiques, specialist shops,
galleries and antique shops, as well as all the usual amenities; nearly all
seeming to be contained in characterful buildings, some dating back to Elizabethan
times which have been lovingly restored. The Dartmouth
Ice Cream Company's Good Intent shop is a typical example, selling
delicious home-made ice cream and other hand made confectionery in a delelightful
olde worlde atmosphere. Such ventures as these further insures that Dartmouth
maintains the character and historic feel it is so loved for.
Dartmouth Castle
So treasured was Dartmouth as a 15th century trading post, that a castle was
constructed to protect it. There are two parts, one on the Dartmouth side
and one on the Kingswear side, divided by the river mouth. Dartmouth castle
is only one mile from the town centre and easily reached by foot. Both parts
are very impressive, but rather than the threatening atmosphere they used
to impart on boats passing between them in the past, they now play a much
gentler role and serve particularly well as picnic spots.
Dartmouth Attractions
One of the jewels to Dartmouth & Paignton's respective crowns
simply must be the Paignton
& Dartmouth Steam Railway, which allows you to ride the spectacular
Torbay coastline from Dartmouth to Paignton, on a journey that takes
you back in time to the heydays of Great Western Railway and the golden age
of steam.
A mention must also go to Woodlands Leisure Park. This winner of the 'UK Traditional Family Outing of the Year 2002', guarantees all weather fun for all the family, with rides and slides, and things to climb!
Dartmouth & The New Year
Last but not least is New Years Eve, when every year thousands of locals and
tourists alike join in the partying spirit, dressing up as anything and everything,
to line the narrow streets all evening, before finally seeing in the new year
as the Church bells toll midnight. Make sure you book early, as this time
of year is VERY popular!
| Missed something? |
