Attractions and Places To See around Dartmouth - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Dartmouth include a mix of historic landmarks and coastal natural features. This region, situated at the mouth of the Dart Estuary in the UK, offers a rich naval history and diverse landscapes. Visitors can explore ancient fortresses, charming towns, and scenic coastal paths. The area is also part of the South Devon National Landscape, providing varied outdoor experiences.
Best attractions and places to see around Dartmouth
- The most popular attractions is Dartmouth Castle…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Dartmouth Castle
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Paignton Pier
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Froward Point Battery and Lookout Station
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Goodrington Sands North Beach
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
Greenway House (Agatha Christie's Holiday Home)
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Dartmouth.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
From here, you have beautiful views of the River Dart and the surrounding countryside. The park is a wonderful place to stroll and admire the beautiful plants and trees. It's a lovely place to relax.
0
0
Make your Bakewell Slice last at the cafe. £3.80 and its a two-chomper :-)
0
0
The Paignton Esplanade is a great place to stay. Classed as on-street car parking, you are able to stay over in a campervan (car parking charges apply); its a great way to enjoy the Esplanade and the Pier at day and night time.
2
0
Great little place to visit. It's an English Heritage Site so free entry for members.
1
0
Dartmouth Castle was built in 1388 to protect the rich town's harbour against French raids. About a hundred years later the walls were strengthened, and the gun tower was added. This was the first coastal artillery installation in the UK. The castle was updated in the mid 1600s for the English civil war. It's been updated several times since then, and was used in the first and second world war. Today the castle is managed by English Heritage, it's open for visitors every day from 10:00 - 17:00. It's paid entry unless you're an English Heritage member.
0
0
The Brownstone Battery at Froward Point was built in 1940 and housed two ex-navy 6" guns. The bases of which you can still explore. The terrain here is very steep and therefore the magazine where the shells were kept was higher than the guns and an incline plane with railway tracks was used to transport the ammunition to the guns. This along with the ammunition stores and living quarters are still visible, although most are gated. Further down the hill are the old searchlight houses and look out points. At the top of the hill is the still functioning coastguard lookout station.
0
0
The Brownstone Battery at Froward Point was built in 1940 and housed two ex-navy 6" guns. The bases of which you can still explore. The terrain here is very steep and therefore the magazine where the shells where kept was higher than the guns and an incline plane with railway tracks was used to transport the ammunition to the guns. This along with the ammunition stores and living quarters are still visible although most are gated. Further down the hill are the old searchlight houses and look out points. At the top of the hill is the still functioning coastguard lookout station.
4
0
Greenway has been a crossing point of the Dart for hundreds of years. There was a 16th century Tudor Mansion here called Greenway Court. In 1700 the then owners moved to nearby Crompton Castle and sold Greenway. It passed through several generations until it was re-built in the current Georgian style in the late 1700's. In the early 1800's the Elton family developed the garden and added two wings to the house and paid for a new road and ferry to Dittisham. Over the next few years, the house and estate were further expanded and improved. Then in 1938 some of the estate was sold off and the house with 36 acres of garden and surrounding land was bought by Agatha Christie. They lived there until their deaths in 1976 and 1978. Their daughter lived there until 2004 but the National Trust acquired the house and collections in 2000. Today you can visit the house and gardens much as they were in Agatha Christies time. It's a beautiful place with a long stretch of river frontage. National Trust members are free but non-NT members must pay to visit the house and gardens.
4
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore around Dartmouth?
Dartmouth is rich in history. You can visit Dartmouth Castle, a 15th-century fortress at the mouth of the Dart Estuary, notable as the UK's first coastal artillery installation. Another significant site is Froward Point Battery and Lookout Station, a World War II battery with visible gun bases and ammunition stores. Additionally, Greenway House, the former holiday home of Agatha Christie, offers a glimpse into the author's life and beautiful gardens.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Dartmouth area?
Yes, Dartmouth offers several family-friendly options. Dartmouth Castle is suitable for families, offering historical exploration and a tearoom. Paignton Pier provides classic seaside entertainment with arcades, fairground rides, and food outlets. For beach fun, Goodrington Sands North Beach is known as a safe family holiday destination with a gently sloping sandy beach, beach huts, and pedalo hire.
What natural features and viewpoints can I find near Dartmouth?
The region boasts stunning natural beauty. The area around Dartmouth is part of the South Devon National Landscape, offering coastal and countryside trails. You can enjoy scenic views of the Dart Estuary from Dartmouth Castle and Froward Point Battery and Lookout Station. Slapton Ley Nature Reserve, the largest freshwater lake in the South West of England, is excellent for wildlife and birdwatching. Blackpool Sands is an award-winning natural beach nearby.
What outdoor activities and routes are available around Dartmouth?
The Dartmouth area is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find various running trails, including the challenging Diamond Jubilee Way and moderate loops like the Dartmouth Harbour – Dartmouth Castle loop. For road cycling, routes range from moderate, such as the Blackpool Sands loop, to difficult, like the View of Labrador Bay loop. Gravel biking options are also available, including challenging routes around Totnes and Torcross. Explore more options on the Running Trails around Dartmouth, Road Cycling Routes around Dartmouth, and Gravel biking around Dartmouth guide pages.
Are there any beaches suitable for families near Dartmouth?
Yes, Goodrington Sands North Beach is a popular choice for families. It features a gently sloping sandy beach, beach huts, deck chairs, sun loungers, and pedalo hire. It's well-managed and offers a safe environment for children. Blackpool Sands, an award-winning natural beauty, is also a short distance from Dartmouth.
What is the best time to visit Dartmouth Castle?
Dartmouth Castle is managed by English Heritage and is generally open for visitors every day from 10:00 to 17:00. It's best to check the official English Heritage website for the most current opening hours and any seasonal variations before your visit, especially outside of peak season.
Can I take a boat trip or ferry around Dartmouth?
Yes, boat trips and ferries are an integral part of the Dartmouth experience. A ferry boat can take you from Dartmouth Castle to Dartmouth town. The Dartmouth Steam Railway & River Boat Company offers nostalgic steam train rides and river cruises. You can also take a ferry from Goodrington Station to Kingswear, then cross the River Dart to Dartmouth.
What cultural sites are there in Dartmouth?
Beyond its historical landmarks, Dartmouth offers cultural experiences. The Flavel Arts Centre is a vibrant venue for live music, theatre, and film. The town center features various shops, galleries, and the Dartmouth Museum, which provides insights into the town's rich history. The Dartmouth Mayflower Heritage Trail commemorates the town's role in the historic Mayflower voyage.
Are there places to eat or drink near the attractions?
Yes, many attractions and areas around Dartmouth offer amenities. Dartmouth Castle has a tearoom. Paignton Pier has food outlets. Near Goodrington Sands North Beach, there's a family-friendly eatery pub with outside seating and views of the bay. The town center of Dartmouth also has an array of cafes, pubs, and restaurants.
What is the significance of Dartmouth's naval history?
Dartmouth has a deep-rooted connection to naval history. Dartmouth Castle was built to protect the harbor from raids and was the UK's first coastal artillery installation. The Britannia Royal Naval College, where Royal Navy officers have trained for generations, further highlights this connection. The town's maritime heritage is evident throughout its history and architecture.
Where can I find information about parking for attractions in Dartmouth?
Parking availability varies by attraction. For example, the Paignton Esplanade, near Paignton Pier, offers on-street car parking. For specific attractions like Dartmouth Castle or Greenway House, it's advisable to check their official websites for detailed parking information, including any charges or restrictions.
Are there any unique shopping experiences in Dartmouth?
The town center of Dartmouth offers a variety of shopping experiences, including local galleries and artisanal craft shops. You can find unique items and local produce, reflecting the charm and character of the region. The historic Butterwalk, with buildings dating from the 16th century, also provides a distinctive backdrop for browsing.
Most popular attractions around Dartmouth
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
