Historic and picturesque, Dartmouth is an old naval town in a wonderful spot at the mouth of the River Dart. It’s still a working town, with Britain’s largest naval college and all sorts of boating activity going on, but it’s pleasantly stuck in a time warp of steam trains, chintzy cafes, and pretty flower boxes, which are all to please the town’s numerous visitors. The fancy yachts in the harbour yield up immaculately dressed luncheon guests, and you can expect ice creams in all sorts of dairy-free configurations, as well as a myriad of flavours and colours. The best places to stay in Dartmouth are as varied as the visitors ranging from postcard-perfect stone cottage B&Bs, to top of the range spa hotels.
Dartmouth’s smart holiday crowds ensure the pretty cobbled streets are lined with interesting shops, and the market place is regularly stocked with local produce — including local wines, gins and ales. The town also has a number of very nice restaurants and a small arts centre. It’s also ideal for a family holiday. There’s a beautiful sandy beach, Blackpool Sands, just a short drive along the coastline; the wonderful Dartmouth Steam Railway; the atmospheric ruins of Dartmouth Castle and fort; the Naval College Museum; the boat trips and ferries; and a number of National Trust properties, including Agatha Christie’s house, Greenway, at Brixham.
The best places to stay in Dartmouth may also make a great base if you’re exploring further afield. As well as Blackpool Sands there are beaches at Bigbury on Sea, Thurlestone Beach and South Milton Sands, and easy access to the South Coast Path for lovely walking. It's heaven for sailors here, but there’s plenty for kayakers and surfers too.
