Self-catering Holiday Cottages near Dartmouth

Escape to the south coast of Devon to the South Hams. Soak in the history and stunning scenery of the vibrant harbour town of Dartmouth and the surrounding area by foot, by sea and by rail. 

With its first mention as a settlement in the Dartmouth area made in the Doomsday book in 1806, you’ll discover this town is packed full of history, heritage and culture that makes it such a unique place to visit. All year round, you’ll find a wealth of festivals, events, exhibitions and markets taking place such as the Dart Music Festival, Dartmouth Royal Regatta or Dartmouth Food Festival.

This popular destination sits on the estuary of the River Dart, and offers a fantastic water sports playground for water sport enthusiasts to enjoy sailing, kayaking, paddle boarding, or gentle boat and ferry trips to spot the seals.

Spend your days following the heritage trail, browsing Dartmouth’s 19th century market or climb to the top of the battlement at Dartmouth Castle for splendid views over the town, and catch a ferry ride back. 

Popular walks include following the South West Coast Path to Little Dartmouth or along the Dart Valley Trail 

Hop aboard the South Devon Railway, where you can enjoy a full day out with stops at the Totnes Rare Breeds and the Dartmoor Otters and Buckfast Butterflies. Or why not sit back and soak in the passing scenery on the Dartmouth Steam Railway, a 7 mile stretch from Paignton to the village of Kingswear along the River Dart and Dart Valley. Interestingly, even though it is named The Dartmouth  Steam Trainline, it doesn’t actually call in Dartmouth. 

For days at the beach, it is only a short drive to one of the UK’s best beaches. Blackpool Sands is a Blue Flag beach, popular for its golden sands and shingle bay. Nearby popular dog friendly beaches include Sugary Cove, Strete Gate and Slapton Sands.