Greetings from Dartmouth

Dartmouth sits at the mouth of the River Dart looking towards the idyllic town of Kingswear and its picturesque colourful houses. We asked Charlotte from the Dartmouth store to share her insider’s view.

Sailing and the sea plays a big part in Dartmouth life, the Britannia Royal Naval College is based here. Dartmouth and Kingswear are connected by ferry and there are many other ferry excursions to be discovered; Dart and Totnes are good ones. Alternatively make the trip to the village of Dittisham just up the river or catch a ferry to Greenway Quay, the home of the late crime author Agatha Christie; which is now owned by the National Trust. If you’re a true Murder Mystery fan read Dead Man’s Folly, Christie’s Poirot story set in her own garden and boathouse on the River Dart. If an organised ferry trip isn’t for you, rent your own little boat for an excursion up the river.

We’re spoiled for places to eat here; Alf’s (Café Alf Resco) is perfect for a quick bite, try the traditional breakfasts as well as homemade light lunches. Be prepared to queue unless you’re an early riser! If the proximity to the sea fills you with the need for fish and chips pop in to Mitch Tonks’ Rockfish along the front with its incredible views; they’ve also got a little takeaway shop next to Bayard’s Cove. The Rockfish restaurant has twice been awarded Best Independent Restaurant at the National Fish & Chips Awards. Tonks’ other seafood restaurant in Dartmouth The Seahorse has also held the proud title of The Observer’s Best UK Restaurant. Spend a few hours at Sharphams near to beautiful Dittisham trying out local wines and cheeses. You can finish your evening off at the Royal Castle overlooking the boat float or at the Dart Marina Hotel slightly further up the river. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, book a trip on a fishing boat and eat what you catch…

For beaches Blackpool and Slapton Sands are fantastic for all the family. If you’re still after more good fish and chips try The Start Bay Inn, your pooches can come too – Slapton Beach is dog friendly. For the more athletic, spend a day walking along the beautiful coastal path including a visit to Start Point.

Good places to stay include Bayard’s Cove Inn B&B, The Royal Castle Hotel and the Dart Marina Hotel. You could even rent a wonderful little (or large) house for your holidays.

With events all year round and so much to do there’s no excuse not to visit! Come and visit the castle for fabulous views out to sea, learn more about our many artists including Paul Barclay, who has his own local store and Simon Drew, who’s popular for his witty artwork, or for the Arts, Music, or Food Festivals, Agatha Christie’s Crime Week, Candlelit Dartmouth or our renowned Royal Regatta. Here at Joules in Dartmouth we can guarantee fun for every one of every age from the very young to the not quite so young. But please don’t forget to come and visit the team in store!