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Devon Guide
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The Dart Estuary
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Dartmouth
Dartmouth
Dartmouth is one of the many jewels of the South Hams. Situated at the mouth of the Dart River, this historic deepwater port is now a sheltered and popular destination for tourists, sailors and even some smaller cruise ships.
The picture postcard location amidst the wooded banks of the river Dart is unspoilt, as access to the town remains limited due to narrow, winding roads and little parking, meaning the regular park and ride service is the best bet for visitors.
For most, the first experience of Dartmouth with be strolling down the main promenade on the embankment which runs most of the town's length. This offers views across the busy Dart estuary, and the starting point for the many regular boat tours and ferry services around the river, sea and up to Totnes, and is also a pleasant place to take a short break, sitting in the sun and watching the world go by.
The town centre of Dartmouth maintains an historic atmosphere, with many old-buildings preserved and beautifully kept. The Cherub Inn is the oldest building remaining in Dartmouth, dating from the late 14th Century.
Besides being historic, the town centre also offers a wonderful selection of shops and galleries, cafes and restaurants - don't forget to explore the winding alleyways, and steep flights of steps to find some of the many hidden treasures on offer in Dartmouth.
Bayards Cove, just to the South of the Town Centre, by the lower ferry to Kingswear, is another important point to visit. With its original cobbled quayside, it is a popular spot to enjoy an ice cream whilst youngsters crab-fish from the quayside. This area has changed little since Elizabethan times, as can be seem from the photo on the left, showing the historic quayside and buildings of the Cove.
A short ferry ride away, and you will find the equally historic village of Kingswear, lining the other side of the Dart. This village is equally picturesque, but smaller, and is also the destination of the Paignton - Kingswear steam railway, providing an ideal route into Dartmouth and excellent views of the Dart Estuary.
Dartmouth Castle, guarding the harbour mouth, can be accessed by ferry from the embankment, or by road, and is now open as a visitor attraction. With its twin castle on the Kingswear side, it provided formidable protection for the port.
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