Dartmouth-Kingswear

Dartmouth

It has been over a thousand years since Devon maritime settlers first began carving this deep river port into the banks of the River Dart and since that time the historic town of Dartmouth has remained dependent on the river and the sea. A stunning medieval town with narrow cobbled streets and overhanging houses, Dartmouth has managed to keep up with the times and offers today’s visitor an impressive choice of things to do and see.

The beautiful fishing port is a popular boating centre hosting the world famous Dartmouth Royal Regatta every August and is also home to The Britannia Royal Naval College. The River Dart is a place of wonder’ flanked by ancient woodlands, picturesque villages and vineyards. The popular 1970s TV series ‘The Onedin Line’ was shot in the area and you can enjoy a leisurely pleasure boat ride to revisit Sunday afternoon memories and meet the colony of grey seals.

For none sailors there are lovely clean beaches, fascinating coastal walks, the Castle and National Trust Gardens. The town has a bustling centre with vibrant market place, gourmet restaurants, busy pubs and cafes. There is accommodation to suit all choices and, as you would expect from one of Devon’s premier tourist areas excellent hospitality and good service everywhere you go. Is it any wonder they call Dartmouth the jewel of South Hams?

Kingswear

Home of the Royal Dart Yacht Club, the lovely village of Kingswear is perched on the opposite bank of the river to Dartmouth only a short ferry trip away. 19th century villas overlooking panoramic views of the village’s historic neighbour hide winding streets lined with friendly shops, traditional pubs and fine restaurants. On the outskirts of the village stands the 15th century castle and to really complete the feeling that one has travelled back in time, Kingswear is also the terminus for the Paignton and Dartmouth Steam Railway. With beautiful walks only moments away, an inherent love for art and music and genuine flair for hospitality, Kingswear is an ideal place from which to explore the surrounding area.

Dittisham

Officially one of the UK’s Most Unique Destinations, the beautiful village of Dittisham nestles on the banks of the River Dart. With picture book cobble built cottages, friendly locals and distinctly laid back atmosphere it is impossible not to fall in love with the place. Whether sailing leisurely along the river, fishing for crabs in the harbour, savouring the gastronomic delights of the local restaurants or enjoying a traditional pint of ale in good company one cannot help but be struck by the feeling of absolute tranquillity. For those seeking warm welcomes, great character, gob smacking beauty and the too often illusive magic to be found in a traditional British holiday, Dittisham comes heartily recommended.

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WEEKEND TRIPS
The picturesque villages of Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo lie on each side of the secluded Yealm River. A couple of pubs (the Swan and the Ship are in Noss Mayo and Newton Ferrers is home to the Dolphin.) There is also the welcoming Yealm Yacht Club, a few Shops and the Post Office are located in Newton Ferrers. The Harbour Office and showers are located at the bottom of the Yealm Steps at the inner end of the main dinghy pontoon. At the outer end of this pontoon is a water supply. There are three visitors swinging moorings. The first is located between Misery Point and Warren Point and will take a 60' / 25 ton displacement boat. There are 2 more swinging moorings on the south side of the channel opposite the Spit Bouy which can take up to three yachts each. There is a Visitor's pontoon in the Pool which can take around twenty yachts and a further Visitor's pontoon upstream off West Shore which provides about twenty berths. A two knot tide can run at various states of tide so some care should be taken when mooring.
Anchorages can be found in the entrance to the river and at Cellar Bay. The River Yealm can become busy at weekends in the high season. On these occasions when the visitor's moorings are full it is possible to pick up an empty private mooring but his is at your own risk and you must seek approval from the Harbour Master before you leave your boat. The Harbour Master and his staff are on the river from early in the morning to late in the evening fro April to October. The Harbour Master can be contacted by telephone on 01752 872533