Things to do in and around Dartmouth

Around Dartmouth

As these pages show, Dartmouth has so much to offer, whether you are sailor, a walker, an artist, a gourmet, a shopaholic, or just want to sit and watch the boats go by. The Coast, the Dart valley and the South Hams area are simply beautiful; the town is steeped in maritime history, with castles and local National Trust properties to visit, and yet there are plenty of contemporary entertainments for all ages, plus a wide choice of top class restaurants.

Shopping

There are many interesting and individual shops spread around town to complement your holiday, offering books, antiques, gifts and local crafts. There are big names in casual clothing such as Weirdfish, Fat Face and Henri Lloyd, plus a National trustshop, two boat chandlers and even M&S.

Dartmouth is home to a number of fine galleries, many featuring local artists, such as D'Art Gallery and Combe Gallery, plus the studios of iconic Dartmouth-based artists such as Paul Barclay and Simon Drew. No1 The Pottery features its own gallery, pieces taken almost entirely from local galleries and artists. Dartmouth also has a small cinema and theatre, with a programme of films, musicians and entertainers.

Outdoors

For sport enthusiasts, there are several golf courses on either side of the River Dart, notably the Dartmouth Golf And Country Club. Cyclists can enjoy many challenges both on and off road, or if your pace is slower, there are many beautiful and interesting walks along the coast and up the river.

However, the chief outdoor attractions are surely the nearby beaches, and the constant activity on the River Dart. See our Water Activities page for more details.

What’s on:

  • 4th – 6th February : Dartmouth Comedy Festival – hosted by the Flavel Centre.
  • 7th - 9th May : Dart Music Festival - All styles from orchestral to rock.
  • 28th May : Dartmouth Galleries Week - meet artists, special exhibitions, late night openings.
  • 26th - 28th August '10 : Dartmouth Royal Regatta - The highlight of the year, racing , tours of navy ships, air displays and fireworks.

  • 25th Sept - 3rd Oct : South Devon Walking Festival - includes special walks from Dartmouth.
  • 20th - 24th Oct : Dartmouth Food Festival - top class foodies, featuring the best of local and seasonal produce.

Internet Access

WiFi hot spots are popping up everywhere, particularly in bars and cafes. Bayards Cove Hotel, Café Alf Resco, and Browns Hotel are some of the most pleasant places to surf the internet in Dartmouth.

For even more detail of Dartmouth's delights, visit the Discover Dartmouth website



Here is our YouTube selection of views of Dartmouth :