Insider Knowledge: Dartmouth
28th June 2016
1. Need to Know about Dartmouth
The best way to get to Dartmouth is to arrive in Kingswear on the magnificent steam train and travel on the river ferry across the beautiful river Dart. Dartmouth is the picturesque town situated below the Britannia Royal Naval College, is home to the oldest working steam engine and the port from where the Mayflower and Speedwell began the pilgrims’ voyage to America. Walking around town you may even meet some of our famous locals like Jay Kay from Jamiroquai, Mitch Tonks celebrity chef or ocean adventurer, Monty Halls who will take you for private excursions and sightseeing. You may also recognise Foss Street from the latest season of “The Coroner” filmed here earlier this year. Remember to always bring your four legged companion for a day out in this dog friendly town where the first Jack Russell was bred and if you’re brave, enter your pooch in our annual Regatta Dog Competition!
2. Our Local Favourite Discoveries
There is a little something for everyone in Dartmouth whether you’re a water baby or landlubber. Travel up to iconic Dittisham on the UK’s only coal fired paddle steamer or by Greenway Ferries to the home of Agatha Chrisitie, crime novelist. Enjoy some sunshine playing golf at the Dartmouth Golf and Country club or visit our Tuesday Farmer’s Market and Friday market in the Old Market Square. Join us for the Royal Regatta, Agatha Christie Crime Week, local and international Food Festival, Candlelit Dartmouth and infamous Fat Stock Market. Take a stroll along the streets into various art galleries such as Simon Drew, John Gillo, Paul Barclay and Helena Clews. For the best fish and chips visit Rockfish on the seafront (watch out for seagulls) or for fine dining visit the Laughing Monk in Strete, recently voted number six in Devon!
3. For the Little Ones
Beautiful coastal walks are the best way to see Dartmouth. Take a walk out to Dartmouth Castle and beach, walk to Little Dartmouth, you just may see the rare peregrine falcons, or up Jawbones for the best views of Dartmouth and Kingswear. Children and adults can enjoy a day out at Woodlands, a ride on the Thomas the Tank Engine train, an educational tour of the Dartmouth Museum or play in Coronation Park. Grab a crabbing line from our Little Joules store and catch some little critters, but don’t forget to throw them back!
4. The best place for a nice cup of tea and a slice of cake
For a reward after a long walk you can enjoy a cream tea at the Dartmouth Castle tea rooms or if you are still in town why not sit outside and enjoy a Devonshire Cream Tea at The Old Market Cafe or enjoy lunch at the neighbouring Dart to Mouth Deli. For early morning risers go to Al Fresco’s for the best Full English. For anyone with a sweet tooth try the Sloping Deck bakery or the award winning Saveurs where you can grab a slice of cake and sample their macaroons.
5. Where to Rest your Head
Quirky small B&B’s are Dartmouth’s trademark so don’t be afraid to go exploring. Bayard’s Cove Inn is one of the most iconic buildings with its wooden interior and sloping walls, you can also experience ocean views and great food in the restaurant. The Royal Castle Hotel is a three star hotel neighbouring our Joules store, expect splendid harbour views and a dynamic bar with live music every weekend. If you prefer to bring your caravan visit Norton Park and Deer Park for some fantastic pitches.
6. Grab a Good Book and Ice cream
For those who still love the smell of books make your way to the Compass Book shop to buy second hand, or swap your old books or visit the home of Winnie the Pooh bookshop Harbour Bookshop situated by the Cherub Inn (the oldest building in Dartmouth). After finishing a good book grab an ice cream from any of the various vendors for the Dartmouth Ice Cream Company or visit The Good Intent who have been serving ice cream since 1928 (don’t forget to sample the fudge)!
Hello from Team Dartmouth
So, don’t forget to pack your sunglasses, sun screen and hat and come on down to say hello to our team. There is a little something for everyone in our stores and we look forward to seeing you all very soon with wide smiles and a huge “Welcome to Dartmouth!”
Wanting to explore other parts of the country? Then check out our Insider Knowledge: Burnham Market article and see what this village has to offer you!
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