Nearby

There’s an abundance of local attractions and family outings to be enjoyed close to Salcombe: culture vulture, history buff, outdoor adventurer or thrill-seeker, when it comes to things to see and do in South Devon, everyone is catered for.

National Trust Houses & Gardens

South Devon plays host to a handful of magnificent countryside estates and historic manor houses, all lovingly maintained by the National Trust which continues to provide memorable days out the whole family can enjoy.

Set on the banks of the River Dart, not far from the seafaring town of Dartmouth, Greenway House and Garden is a beautiful woodland estate once frequented by renowned detective novelist, Agatha Christie, during her family holidays. You can easily lose an entire afternoon exploring this romantic riverside setting. Also not far from the historic port of Dartmouth, further around the majestic headland towards the Berry Head National Nature Reserve, can be found Coleton Fishacre; a 1920s country home encompassed by exuberant coastal gardens. You’ll be impressed by the house’s Arts and Crafts design and Art Deco panache, the classic ‘upstairs downstairs’ lifestyle of the ‘roaring twenties’ very much on show.

On the wooded fringes of Plymouth, ‘Britain’s ocean city’, and overlooking the magnificent River Plym, lies Saltram House; a splendid mansion surrounded by endless tracks and riverside trails perfect for cycling and dog walks.

Discovering the Wilds of Dartmoor

It’s one of Britain’s great escapes, a roaming, open range characterised by ancient tors, rushing rivers, sweeping heathland and ancient woods. The wilds of Dartmoor continue to captivate all those who follow its many paths and waymarks.

The heather-bound hills and rugged tors of south Dartmoor form an impressive backdrop to the South Devon hinterlands and coastal parishes. Only a short car journey or bus ride away, it’s here that you’ll find many of the region’s favourite walks; from the wayward, sun-dappled trails that lead to the Avon Dam and encompass the wooded shores of Burrator Reservoir, to the historic leafy bridleways and abandoned railway tracks that follow the Two Moors Way.

Historic stannary towns and sleepy rural hamlets are gateways to this remote upland countryside, settings for some of the region’s most delightful country pubs and inns. Whether you’re rambling, orienteering, trail running, dog walking, mountain biking or horse riding, an adventure on Dartmoor is a day to remember.

Popular Coastal Walks

The enduring South West Coast Path, with its catalogue of incredible headland panoramas, remains one of the area’s most cherished attractions. Whether you want to enjoy a brisk morning stroll along the local cliffs before breakfast, or a day-long trek to explore the many unique coastal landmarks and features, this famous undulating trail never ceases to amaze.

The coastal path meanders east of Salcombe past Gara Rock in search of Prawle Point - Devon’s most southerly outpost - winding above secluded, sandy coves and smugglers’ holloways and skirting the pretty lanes of East Prawle village, home of the renowned Pigs Nose Inn. Follow the waymarks to another of South Devon’s famous coastal steeps and the cylindrical white-washed walls of Start Point Lighthouse; a beacon to ships that’s stood sentinel upon theses rugged bluffs for more than 150 years. Discover the historic ruins of Hallsands, the village washed into the sea during high tides and battering storms, before making your way to the sweeping shingle beaches of Beesands and Slapton along the sparkling Start Bay coast, the flamboyant port of Dartmouth lying further round the peninsula.

Following the waymarks west out of Salcombe to round the majestic Bolt Head cliffs before descending the gentle valley path that leads to the golden sands of Soar Mill Cove and its exquisite bathing waters. Discover the idyllic coastal villages of Hope Cove and Thurlestone and their inviting sandy shores before trekking onwards to the magnificent sweep known as Bantham Beach at the mouth of the River Avon, heart of South Devon’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Enjoy magnificent views of Burgh Island and Bigbury Bay before the gentle climes and tranquil creeks found along the Erme Estuary, setting for the charming harbourside villages of Noss Mayo and Newton Ferrers.

Exciting South Devon Attractions

There’s a plethora of outstanding and award-winning attractions to be enjoyed in South Devon, all sorts of fun and endless entertainment for the entire family. From scenic riverside railway excursions to open gardens and wildlife parks, when it comes to things to do near Salcombe, you’ll be struggling to find enough hours in the day to cram it all in!

Let’s start with the largest and one of the most popular attractions in Devon. Surrounded by beautiful countryside and rolling hills, Woodlands Family Theme Park is full of exciting rides and adventure play areas, the perfect place for the kids to run wild whatever the weather.

The story behind Dartmoor Zoo, near the pretty South Devon village of Sparkwell, was made into a blockbusting film, We Bought a Zoo, starring Matt Damon and Scarlett Johansson. It’s here that you’ll find a menagerie of rare and exotic animals, from big cats to swinging monkeys, plus you’ll have the chance to get up close and personal in the many animal encounter zones.

From the large and ferocious to the cute and cuddly. Tucked away in the scenic folds of Buckfastleigh on the southern fringes of Dartmoor can be found Pennywell Farm. Be prepared to be swooned by the farm’s most popular residents, its collection of adorable miniature pigs, who as well as providing cuddles, also entertain the crowds with their all-action jump racing. Enjoy free rides, play and picnic areas, and an array of beguiling farm animals.

It’s one of the South Devon coast’s most iconic landmarks, standing 28 metres tall above the grassy headland, its flashing beacon a warning to seafarers of the rocky dangers that lie beneath. The Start Point Lighthouse is open for guided tours and provides an impressive backdrop for picnickers enjoying the scintillating views and scanning the distant horizon for ships. Keep your eyes peeled for redstarts whose orange breasts can be seen flashing through the thickets, and also for seals and dolphins riding the inshore swells and playing in the wash. Don’t forget your camera and binoculars!

Running along a stunning seven-mile stretch of the Dart Valley and towing heritage rolling stock, the steam and diesel locomotives of the South Devon Railway offer a memorable and nostalgic outing whatever the weather. With dining train packages also available, this historic line links up three of the area’s other great wildlife attractions; Totnes Rare Breed Farm, Dartmoor Otter Sanctuary and Buckfast Butterfly Farm. If you enjoy vintage travel experiences, the award-winning Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company offers more opportunities to savour the beautiful local landscape by way of steam train, boat, paddle steamer and open top bus, all combining to navigate the idyllic waterways of the River Dart and the historic highways and byways of Torbay, Totnes and Dartmouth.

It’s the hottest ticket out of town: South Devon Chilli Farm can be found nestled behind farmer’s fields near the hilltop village of Loddiswell, offering the whole family a fascinating insight into all things peppery.

Designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and also declared a National Nature Reserve, Slapton Ley is the largest natural freshwater lagoon in the South West. This wildlife haven is only separated from the sea by a sliver of shingle bar and remains an important field school and research centre running a busy schedule of educational events, from wild food foraging to coastal rock hopping and dusky bat walks.

Exploring the South Hams’ estuaries and riverways makes for a lovely family outing. Leading the steady stream of would-be paddlers along theses precious creeks and eddies is Singing Paddles, the outdoor adventure canoe specialists offering a variety of classic tours around the area’s much-loved backwaters.

South Devon is blessed with some of the most celebrated golf courses in the UK. The Harry Colt designed clifftop course at Thurlestone Golf Club offers up spectacular views at every hole with lessons available from three club pros. The manicured greens and sweeping fairways of neighbouring Bigbury Golf Club also offers exciting links golfing, while the championship course at Dartmouth Hotel, Golf & Spa is a test for the most seasoned of clubbers.

South Devon Market Towns

Salcombe is surrounded by sleepy hamlets, thatched cottage villages and historic market towns. Follow the primrose lanes up hill and down dale to discover these characterful South Devon communities.

Pursue the Salcombe Estuary round Snapes Point and past the sheltered moorings known as ‘The Bag’ and you’ll see the neighbouring spires and rooftops of Kingsbridge nestled into the distant hillside. Recognised by its pretty promenade and bustling town square, Kingsbridge attracts shoppers to its steep sloping Fore Street and jostling marketplaces all the year round. Amongst the town’s popular venues and meeting rooms are the Harbour House arts and yoga centre, The Kings Cinema, Quayside Leisure Centre and the award-winning Recreation Ground. Other attractions include; the Kingsbridge & District Light Railway, The Kingsbridge Cookworthy Museum, Kingsbridge Fair Week, Kingsbridge Food & Music Festival and the annual Kingsbridge Show.

The seafaring town of Dartmouth has been described as ‘the jewel of the South Hams’ such is its attractiveness and prominence. This famous port is home to the historic Britannia Royal Naval College, and its narrow, Elizabethan streets play host to a medley of galleries, boutiques, delicatessens, cafés, bistros and waterside inns. The Royal Avenue Gardens provide a colourful central showpiece and it’s not uncommon to see super-yachts and naval frigates docked in the bustling harbour waters. Dartmouth Castle offers a fascinating window into an illustrious maritime past, while the highlights of the town’s busy social calendar are the Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta, the Dart Music Festival, and the Dartmouth Food Festival.

The attractive market town of Totnes lies on the banks of the River Dart. Once a thriving centre for merchants and traders, in more recent years this friendly community has become a hub for holistic health practices and famous for its Totnesian ‘New Age’ vibe - having been recently voted one of world’s ‘funkiest towns’ by a leading holiday magazine. Totnes thrives on creativity and flair, and nowhere more so than its hip and vibrant high street, home to its many artisans and independent traders - the town even invented its own currency, the Totnes pound. Here, you can indulge in some of the region’s finest food fayre courtesy of an impressive selection of pubs, cafés, bistros and trendsetting restaurants. Discover the market squares, secret gardens and dulcet river walks when you pick up the Totnes Town Trail. Popular annual events include the Totnes Carnival, Totnes 10K Race and the Totnes Show.

If you’re in need of bright lights and busy boulevards, the ocean city of Plymouth and the seaside resort town of Torquay, on the English Riviera, are both within an hour’s travel time. Plymouth’s National Marine Aquarium, Theatre Royal, Pavilions and historic Barbican and Hoe remain perennially popular attractions, while Torquay’s Kents Cavern and Babbacombe Model Village continue to draw in the crowds.