Holiday rentals in Dartmouth

The River Dart starts in the moorlands of Dartmoor National Park and winds its way 50 miles before reaching the town of Dartmouth in Devon on the South Coast of England. The town is set on a slope heading down to the water, with cobbled streets, narrow alleyways, whitewashed cottages, and shops leading to its historic quayside. Dartmouth’s location made it an ideal seaport in Medieval times, trading in wine and wool. Today, life still revolves around the water here: the Britannia Royal Naval College stands over the town with its naval cadets on the river. They share the water with local fishermen out on their boats and playful seals in the bay. Looking across the river, colourful houses pepper the slopes of the town of Kingswear. Dartmouth’s place in history was cemented when the Pilgrims stopped off here on the Mayflower and Speedwell for repairs before crossing the Atlantic Ocean to America more than 400 years ago.

As so many of the activities are on the water, the spring and summer months are the best time to make the most of Dartmouth holiday cottages, with a variety of boat trips and water sports on offer. The town holds a packed programme of events throughout the year, including the Dartmouth Regatta in August, when the river is awash with colourful boats and there is a buzzing festival atmosphere. There is also the popular Dart Music Festival, which takes place at the beginning of May. If you prefer the cooler months of autumn and winter, the town is surrounded by abundant countryside, with plenty of walking trails, cycling routes, and wildlife-spotting. Winter here is an ideal time to warm up by the fireside in one of the waterfront restaurants or traditional pubs.

Dartmouth Castle

Stroll just over a mile along the coastal path, or take the 10-minute journey on the Dartmouth Castle Ferry in the summer months, to arrive at the protector of the River Dart, Dartmouth Castle. Discover 600 years of history, with impressive artillery on display. From the gun tower, look across the mouth of the Dart Estuary to Kingswear Castle and learn the stories of the harbour chain.

Trips on the River Dart

Take a trip on the Kingswear Castle, the only coal-powered paddle steamer that is still running in England and dates back to 1924. The one hour, 15 minute journey takes you up the River Dart to the market town of Totnes and can be combined with a trip on the heritage steam train.

Blackpool Sands

The shingle beach at Blackpool Sands is bordered by a forest, with the scent of the pine trees mingling with the sea air. During the summer, this is a haven for water sports — with lifeguards patrolling the beach — while in the winter, you can go for a bracing walk along the shore. Blackpool Sands also hosts year-round events, including a triathlon in June and a music festival in July.