Best Places to Stay in Dartmouth

Dartmouth in South Devon is an increasingly popular destination especially amongst those who prefer a staycation! Historically it is best known as a naval town - it still houses Britain's largest Naval College.

Nowadays it has become much more of a seaside escape for city slickers. Indeed some have dubbed it "Knightsbridge by the sea"; certainly in the height of the summer season it can appear full of fancy yachts moored in the harbour and immaculately turned out ladies that lunch!

With such a discerning clientele it has ensured that places to stay in Dartmouth and the surrounding area just get better and better. There is a wide choice of properties for all budgets and certainly plenty to satisfy most tastes from those prefer their hotels traditional, to those who like something a bit more hip.

The influx of the smart holiday crowd has ensured that the town has not languished on its laurels either. There are now plenty of chic shops and boutiques, plus a great selection of upmarket restaurants and cafes. It also boasts a smart arts centre which puts on small theatrical productions, live music, films and much more including hosting the annual comedy festival.

For history buffs there is much to get excited about too. Visit Dartmouth Castle, which dates back to the 14th century, pop into the Museum where you will find all you want to know about the town's past, and explore the Butterwalk, a street of 17th century houses with a gorgeous timber framed original arcade. Or simply jump on the steam train for a spot of nostalgia and a great day out.

Beach wise there are plenty of sandy spots for everyone. In Dartmouth itself, there is nothing beachy to speak of, but venture slightly further afield and you’ll discover the delights of Blackpool Sands, Bigbury on Sea, Thurlestone Beach and South Milton Sands to name but a few.

If an active break is more your thing, then Dartmouth can tick pretty much all the boxes. A sailor’s paradise, there are fantastic walks too (get to know the South West Coast Path), plus sea or river kayaking, surfing and much more.

Best places to stay in Dartmouth on or near the River Dart

If you want to be easily accessible for a bit of messing around in a boat, then you’ll need to choose from our places to stay in Dartmouth on or near the river Dart.

First up we’d recommend Fingals. This quirky and informal hotel has become a firm favourite over the years, with its house party atmosphere and laid back vibe; indeed they positively encourage you to bring children and dogs! Situated in beautiful countryside, yet only a mile from the river at Dittisham it occupies the perfect spot.

Across the river from Dartmouth, you’ll discover Nonsuch House in Kingswear. This delightful B&B has collected many accolades over the years, and it’s not difficult to see why – think fabulous estuary views, delicious dinners (four days a week), and four charming, traditionally decorated bedrooms. The welcome’s not too shabby either.

Best places to stay in Dartmouth for a Beach holiday

If you’re looking for a beachside location, they you’ll have to leave the confines of Dartmouth itself. But travel either east or west and you’ll easily come across some of the best places to stay in the area for a beach holiday.

The Henley Hotel is located in Bigbury on Sea and quite simply has views to die for! This seaside bolthole has five simply decorated yet spacious bedrooms and a summery beach house feel. Dinners, prepared by the owner, are delicious and as you would expect feature plenty of local seafood. A private cliff path gives access to a piece of stunning, pristine beach.

South Sands in Salcombe is one of an ever growing clan of boutique seaside retreats. Bedrooms are airy and well-appointed and the brasserie has a New England beach feel. Perfect for a family holiday, South Sands is in the dream spot for the more active – it’s bang next door to a sailing and watersports centre.

Creep further towards Dartmouth and you’ll find the Whitehouse a classy six bedroomed coastal village hotel, just a mile or so from Torcross and the beach. This place has a much more grown up feel – no children are allowed in the restaurant after 6 o’clock. Book the whole property and chill out in real style with eleven of your nearest and dearest.

Head east from Dartmouth and you’ll discover the Cary Arms. This classic seaside destination oozes style and fun. Dubbed the “inn on the Beach” it has eight stylish bedrooms, plus three self-catering cottages, if you want to be more independent. Great touches include providing rods for the pier and nets for fishing in the rock pools.

Best Places to Stay in Dartmouth for Bed and Breakfast

If you’re looking for a B&B or guest house, then this is a fertile hunting ground. As befits the seaside image, the area is awash with places to stay, though some better than others.

Kaywana Hall is a modernist designer house situated above the river Dart. The owners have filled it with art and for the style conscious there is slate and glass everywhere. The three bedrooms each have their own front doors, private terraces, fluffy robes, ipod docking stations; in fact most of the accoutrements you would expect from a luxury hotel. On a sunny day you can simply kick back by the outdoor pool and imagine you’re in California.

Strete Barton House is another excellent B&B. A much more traditional proposition than Kaywana, but very special too. Think Egyptian cotton bed linen, super-comfy beds, stunning panoramic views across Start Bay and delicious breakfast.

Best traditional place to stay in Dartmouth

For lovers of the traditional country house the best place to stay near Dartmouth would have to be Orestone Manor Hotel. An Edwardian, colonial style property, it boasts great views which have an almost Mediterranean type feel. Bedrooms are spacious and furnished with antiques and the majority have spectacular views of the sea and surrounding countryside.

Food too is a winner here. They have been awarded 2 AA rosettes and the dinner menu features many local favourites: try the hand dived Torbay scallops, Dartmoor quail or Cornish sea bass.

Nothing that floats your boat from our selection of the best places to stay in Dartmouth? Visit our full listing of Devon hotels.

 

Written by Sarah Empson