Dartmouth is full to the brim with amazing things to do and places to see, however if you’re planning on staying in the town for a little while, you might be interested in places to visit that are nearby. If it’s beaches that you’re looking to explore outside of the town, check out our beaches section here. Other than beaches there are family attractions, great towns with loads to see and do and places to go if you’re interested in nature and wildlife. Read on to find out our top places to visit near Dartmouth.
Fast Rabbit Farm Gardens
Just a mile from Dartmouth, nestled in Strawberry Valley, Fast Rabbit Farm Gardens are based on two valleys. Visitors can look forward to a lake, stream, ornamental plants, wildflowers and plenty more. There is also a plant centre too and many of the plants on offer have been grown in their own nursery.
Babbacombe Model Village
Babbacombe Model Village in Torquay is a charming attraction that the little ones will love. Explore the miniature buildings and figures depicting local spots as well as British scenes from further afield.
Pennywell Farm
An ideal family day out, Pennywell Farm in Buckfastleigh is home to a wide range of adorable animals just waiting to meet you. Enjoy piggy cuddles, meeting tortoises, guinea pigs, activities and lots more.
Slapton Ley
Slapton Ley is a National Nature Reserve and the largest natural freshwater lake in the South West. Enjoy a circular walk through Slapton Village and experience the varied local wildlife such as the Yellow Horned Poppy and Vipers Bugloss. Home to the Strapwort on the lake shore, the only place you can find it in UK, the lake is perfect for nature lovers.
Greenway
Take a glimpse into the private life of Agatha Christie and her family at her former holiday home Greenway House. Stroll the large, romantic woodland garden with the River Dart in view just over the hillside. Now managed by The National Trust, explore its rich historical interior and spring flowers. Take the scenic route to Greenway House travelling by boat from Dartmouth to Greenway Quay.
Coleton Fishacre
Travel back in time to the Jazz Age at the country home of the D’Oyly Carte family. With Art Deco elegance, gain an insight into 1920s life and the joyful atmosphere filled with music. The garden viewpoints give glimpses out to sea, past tranquil ponds and exotic plants.
Hallsands Village
Explore Hallsands, the lost village in Start Bay and learn about its history, inhabitants and how it disappeared into the sea leaving just ruins to be seen today.
Sharpham House Vineyard
Enjoy a wine and cheese tasting and/or tour to try some of the most delicious classic English wines. Tours include a group of self-guided tasting flights, guided tasting or a two-hour guided walk through the vineyard tasting various wines and cheese along the way.
Cookworthy Museum
Educate yourself on the story of Kingsbridge and the South Hams, delving into the photographs dating back from the 1870s whilst enjoying the new exhibition in the Lorenz Room, celebrating all types of music in the area.
Wheeldon Off-Road Bike Centre
For an unforgettable family experience, utilise the indoor arena with mountain bikes, e-bikes or BMXs’ to take advantage of the all-weather circuit. Junior training is available through every school holiday. On the sunny days, mountain bike in the countryside surrounding Wheeldon to the River Avon or through the South Hams valleys.
Brixham
Known as one of the busiest fishing ports, Brixham has built on this reputation as a fishing town to expand their range of activities and must-see sites.
Explore a costal walk from Battery Gardens to Brixham Harbour, displaying one of the most panoramic views of the bay. Or delve into the busy Brixham Fish Market to finish at Brixham Harbour and enjoy the freshest seafood. With plenty of choice from stunning views overlooking Brixham Harbour at The Old Market House to sustainably reputable restaurants such as Simply Fish and Rockfish or even locally-owned Beamers Seafood and The Curious Kitchen, you are sure to have a delicious, memorable seafood meal in Brixham.
Find out about the history of Brixham visiting the Golden Hind Museum Ship or Battery Gardens Museum which boasts a rich collection of exhibits suitable for curious minds.
For exhilarating activities, excite yourself playing Battlefield Live, an infra red combat game using sensor recognition on a 3 acre Battlefield, perfect for family fun. Unleash your competitive streak with Brixham Yacht Club offering sailing competitions in Open Weekends, National, European and World Championship events. Or take advantage of the range of boat trips Southwest Rib Rides offers to explore the beautiful Torbay coastline.
And after those packed days, relax on the plethora of beaches Brixham offers whether it be St. Mary’s Bay, Breakwater Beach or Churston Cove.
Paignton
Known for its beaches and seaside resorts, Paignton has a diverse range of things to do for all!
Paignton promotes an assortment of activities ideal for families. Paignton Zoo Environmental Park offers dozens of different animals across 80 acres of spacious grounds. For even more fun, splash into the UK’s largest outdoor waterpark at Splashdown Quaywest. Outdoor adventure is available for all at Reach Outdoors providing coasteering, kayaking and stand up paddleboarding.
Paignton is also part of a designated UNESCO Global Geopark. One of Earth’s extraordinary places, with only 8 in the UK and 140 in the world, enjoy the stunning scenery as well as diving, kayaking, sea-fishing and more.
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