Unpredictable weather is almost guaranteed during Autumn and planning activities becomes an increasingly challenging task. With this in mind, we have comprised a short list of activities and events the whole family will enjoy come rain or shine.
Events
Dartmouth’s events are a great way to explore the town and really see what it has to offer. Speak to our local residents and you’ll soon see why Dartmouth is such a great place to be. There are a huge range of events running throughout the year, and these are ones we’ve picked out for the Autumn season.
Dartmouth’s Farmers Markets
Dartmouth’s Farmers Markets are held on the 2nd Saturday on the month from 9.30am in The Old Market. This is a great time for local producers to showcase their products, whether this be freshly baked bread, honey from South Devon bees or home-grown plants. Small, local businesses have faced their fair share of struggles in the past 18 months, making Dartmouth’s markets perfect for rediscovering the community and selling their artisan food.
Dart the Dart
On 25th September the annual “Dart the Dart” run begins. This is a half-marathon, with participants running from Totnes to Dartmouth. The multi-terrain culinary course will offer runners the chance to stop and sample local food and drink tasters on their way to Dartmouth. Funds raised go towards Dartmouth Food Festival, happening the following month. It is common for runners to wear fancy dress, making this event a popular spectators sport. Whether you’re taking part or watching from the sidelines undercover in a cafe, this is definitely an event not to miss!
Dartmouth Food Festival
The Dartmouth Food Festival is back from Friday 22nd to Sunday 24th October, jam packed with delicious regional food and drink, chef demonstrations, workshops and family activities. The festival attracts over 100 local producers and is certain to be any foodie’s heaven. Make sure to look at their programme of events to see locations and times so you don’t miss the fun!
Things To Do
When the weather starts to turn, Dartmouth have plenty of inside attractions.
Britannia Royal Naval College
Overlooking the estuary sits Britannia Royal Naval College, used for Naval Officer Training since 1863 and with its building work completed in 1905. As the only remaining Naval Collage in England, visitors are invited to take tours around the grounds, with expert guides sharing past narratives and leading you through the heart of the College, Chapel, Parade Grounds and Heritage Museum. Tours are bookable online with selected dates from September to November. On the off chance of particularly wet weather, the Naval College offers panoramic views of Dartmouth and Kingswear, a great spot to sit and admire river Dart.
The Flavel
In central Dartmouth sits The Flavel, Dartmouth’s theatre, music, art and cinema destination. With events running daily plus morning and evening performances, The Flavel is a great spot to shelter from the rain or warm up with a hot drink from their onsite café. For those wanting to switch off from the bustle of town, relax in their library, now with free Wi-Fi.
Pennywell Farm
Pennywell are based a few miles out of Dartmouth but are worth a day trip to see their farm animals and watch their daily shows. Goat milking, ferret racing and piggy cuddles are just a few of the activities for visitors to enjoy. In-between events, pet their miniature donkeys and ewes, undercover from the rain in a cozy sheltered barn.
HQ Escape Rooms
For visitors wanting a challenge and get the family working as a team, HQ Escape Rooms transport you to a secret room of hidden secrets. Guests must think outside the box and work together to escape in time. There are tests, puzzles and codes to suit all ages and ability, the aim of the game is to have fun and spend quality time together.
Woodlands
On the way to Dartmouth it is likely you’ll drive past Woodlands, Devon’s largest family theme park. For inside fun, look at their play area, the largest in the UK, and when the sun is shining, visit the Fantasy Forest or Falconry Centre. Why not race on the six lane frenzy of the Barracuda to satisfy sibling rivalry, or watch as the Sea Serpant twists you round its adrenaline-filled course.
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