Enjoying a location within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Dartmouth is one of the region's most popular towns. Here working fishing boats and small leisure vessels congregate at the harbour, overlooked by historic, sloping streets lined with 17th century buildings. The town has always been a strategic port, owing to its natural deep-water setting. Some of the 12th century crusades were launched from here, and by the mid-14th century Edward III sited the Royal Navy in the town. Dartmouth has seen activity in almost every sea-based conflict since - in the Second World War it was a base for US forces, and served as a launch point for D-Day landings.
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Classic
(87 reviews)Experience the relaxed charm of the English Riviera on a holiday which features nostalgic journeys aboard heritage railways and a traditional boat cruise. Staying in Paignton, a jewel in the crown of the English Riviera, this traditional seaside town creates the perfect base, with beautiful views across the seafront.
Naturally, much of Dartmouth's town grew around its port, and today there are a number of buildings dating back to the Tudor period, that were initially used for ship repairs and woodwork. These idyllic buildings and streets - in particular Smith Street - are now a major tourist attraction, as are the stalls in the cobbled market place and the array of shops on the waterfront.
