Best attractions and places to see around Ashprington, a village nestled in the South Hams district of Devon, offers a blend of historical landmarks and natural beauty. Situated above the Dart Estuary where Bow Creek joins the River Dart, the area provides a quintessential English village feel. Visitors can explore a variety of sites, from historic churches and grand estates to scenic river settings and coastal features. The surrounding rural Devon countryside is ideal for those seeking outdoor exploration and…
Last updated: April 23, 2026
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Make your Bakewell Slice last at the cafe. £3.80 and its a two-chomper :-)
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The pier offers a wonderful view. Agatha Christie often went roller skating on the pier, as this was very fashionable at the time. At that time there was a concert hall at the end of the pier, but unfortunately it burned down in 1974.
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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.
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Great little place to visit. It's an English Heritage Site so free entry for members.
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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.
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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.
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Ultimate local pub recommendation: The Hole in the Wall, self-promoted as the oldest pub in Brighton. It is said to have existed since 1540. Everything is a bit older here: the furniture, the guests (I was far below the average age) and the band. Live music was played. And how! Drew Millin rocked the pub, the atmosphere was extraordinary. So if you're in the harbor here, you shouldn't miss this pub.
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Ashprington and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit Dartmouth Castle, built in 1388 to protect Dartmouth's harbour and updated over centuries, it was the UK's first coastal artillery installation. Another significant site is Froward Point Battery and Lookout Station, a 1940 construction that housed ex-navy 6-inch guns, where you can explore the bases and ammunition stores. Within Ashprington itself, the historic 14th-century St. David's Church features a Norman font and 13th-century communion chalice.
Yes, several attractions cater to families. Dartmouth Castle is a great option, offering historical exploration with plenty to see inside and out. The nearby Paignton Pier is a classic English holiday destination brimming with activities like arcades, fairground rides, and food outlets, perfect for a fun day out.
Ashprington is set above the beautiful Dart Estuary, where Bow Creek joins the River Dart, offering picturesque waterside scenery. The surrounding rural Devon countryside provides stunning views and opportunities to spot wildlife. You can also enjoy the views from Princess Pier, Torquay, which offers a wonderful perspective of the sea and marina, or from Froward Point Battery and Lookout Station, which provides expansive coastal vistas.
The area around Ashprington is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous hiking trails, including the easy 'Bow Creek & Cornworthy loop from Tuckenhay' or the moderate 'Bow Creek – The Maltsters Arms loop from Ashprington'. For more options, explore the full range of routes on the Hiking around Ashprington guide.
Yes, there are several cycling routes available. You can enjoy an easy ride like the 'Totnes Town Centre – View of the River Dart loop from Totnes' or more challenging options such as the 'Sandridge Barton – Bollards on Woodland Path loop from Stoke Gabriel'. Discover more routes on the Cycling around Ashprington guide.
Ashprington offers a quintessential English village feel with appealing cottages and a welcoming community. You can visit traditional country inns like the Durant Arms (built in 1725) or the 17th-century Watermans Arms near Bow Bridge, which provide a glimpse into local life and a welcoming atmosphere.
Sharpham House and Estate, located within Ashprington parish, is a late Georgian mansion with grounds landscaped by Capability Brown. The estate is particularly known for its successful Sharpham Vineyard and Creamery, which produces local wines and cheeses. The Sharpham Trust also works to protect the estate's natural beauty.
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. For instance, Dartmouth Castle is loved for its historical depth and lovely views of the Dart Estuary. The vibrant atmosphere and picturesque setting of Torquay Harbour and Marina are also highly enjoyed for their mix of leisure, tourism, and a bustling port environment.
Yes, the area offers various running trails for different fitness levels. You can find an easy 'Running loop from Totnes' or more moderate options like the 'View of the River Dart – Totnes Town Centre loop from Ashprington'. For a comprehensive list, check out the Running Trails around Ashprington guide.
Within Ashprington village, St. David's Church is a prominent 14th-century landmark. It features a fascinating Norman font, beautiful woodwork, and a west tower that predates the rest of the 15th-century structure. The church also houses significant 17th and 18th-century memorials and a rare 13th-century pre-Reformation communion chalice.
While not directly within Ashprington, the village's location near the coast means it is close to sections of the South West Coast Path. This popular walking route offers stunning views along the Devon and Cornwall coastline, providing excellent opportunities for longer hikes and coastal exploration.


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