Guest Blog Post – ExpressVPN*
The River Dart in Dartmouth, Devon, and this town totally grabs me with its amazing water views. Boats sway gently in the harbour, the calm river reflects those lush green hills, and a salty breeze carries whispers of the sea. Dartmouth has this beauty and sea charm that makes it a must-see in South Devon. People come here itching to check out its gorgeous sights and deep history, but rising seas could shake things up down the road.
As per ExpressVPN’s report says global sea levels have risen over 20 centimeters since 1880, and the pace is picking up. By the end of this century, they predict it could climb a whole meter, even if we push hard on climate action. For low-lying nations, this is already real, and places like Dartmouth have to face what it might mean for their land and lives. This town has a vibe like no other and we need to protect these waterside treasures.
Sea History That Sticks
The sea is everything to Dartmouth—it’s baked into its story. Back in the 12th century, this place hummed as a busy port, even sending ships off to the Crusades. Then, fast forward to World War II, and it was a key spot for D-Day planning, proving how important it was. Dartmouth Castle sits at the river’s edge, this tough 15th-century fort gives killer views and a real feel of the past. Up on the hill, Britannia Royal Naval College keeps training Britain’s sailors, holding tight to that ocean legacy.
Nature’s Got Game
Nature here knocks me out every time I visit. The River Dart winds through green hills, calm and perfect for kayaking or just chilling with the scenery. Dartmouth is basically surrounded by this amazing Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in South Devon. Think awesome cliff paths, and like, proper secret coves that are just…wow. You can see seals just hanging out on the rocks, and dolphins playing in the sea – wildlife central! Whether I’m just strolling by the water or going to Blackpool Sands, Dartmouth is just showing off its nature big time. It’s pretty cool.
Stuff to Check Out
There’s so much to see here, no matter what I’m into. The castle rocks, but Dartmouth Museum pulls me in deeper, tucked in a cute 17th-century building full of town tales. Butterwalk has these old merchant houses with fancy woodwork—perfect for pics and a glimpse of rich history. I rode the Dartmouth Steam Railway once, chugging along the coast with postcard views of the river and sea. This place is small, so I love wandering its narrow streets, popping into quirky shops and cozy cafes around every corner.
Food and Fun Vibes
Dartmouth comes alive with its food and festivals—I can’t get enough. The Food Festival hits every fall, piling up fresh crab and lobster straight from the water. Then the Royal Regatta, one of Britain’s oldest, turns the town wild with boat races, fireworks, and air shows that light up the sky. Eating by the harbour is my favourite—fresh fish with killer views, plus cream teas for that sweet Devon taste. It’s a total haven for food lovers and party vibes like me.
Getting Here’s a Trip
Getting to Dartmouth feels like its own adventure. No train station sits right here, but I catch one to Totnes, then hop a bus or drive through Devon’s rolling hills. My top pick is coming by boat—gliding up the Dart, watching colorful buildings pop into sight like a movie. Once I land, I ditch the car. These walkable streets beg me to explore slowly, soaking in every bit of charm step by step.
A Spot Worth Keeping
To me, Dartmouth is Devon’s gem—history, nature, and good people all mixed up perfectly. Its history just kind of sinks in and stays with you, and then there’s this amazing energy about it now that just pulls me back again and again. I leave, but those memories? They really stick around. But then you think about the sea, slowly rising… and it hits you. We have to protect this place. I want to visit in a way that actually helps, so it lasts for future generations to fall in love with too. Because whether it’s the pull of the ocean, or just that longing for adventure in my soul, I know Dartmouth will be there, always ready to completely capture my heart all over again.
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