It’s no secret that Dartmouth offers an unparalleled summer experience!
Unwind on the picturesque beaches, sail along the glittering river, or immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene. The town brings a wealth of exciting events for visitors and locals to enjoy from regattas and district shows to markets and theatre performances, read on to find out the top events in and around Dartmouth that you won’t want to miss this holiday break.
Summer Evening Illuminations at Babbacombe Model Village, 1st Aug – 14th September
Enjoy thousands of miniature lights, special fire and lighting effects at Babbacome Model Village’s enchanting evening illuminations!
The lights come on at dusk, but it’s worth noting that this is both a day and night experience for visitors. Some of the details in the models and scenes (and the spotter sheet characters) are not so visible after dark, meaning it’s important to experience the village in daylight too for the full experience.
Enjoy a daylight visit first and then go around again after dark, when visitors are welcome to bring their own light bites to enjoy on the outdoor terrace as the village transforms from day to night.
Magician Greg Chapman’s Miniature World Tour
Wands, wizards and everything in between – be mesmerised with magician and entertainer Greg Chapman as he visits the Babbacombe Model Village this Summer to bring his spectacular close-up performances to life.
Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta, 23rd-26th August
Dartmouth Regatta is a whole week of entertainment and is free to attend! Thousands of visitors from the region, nation and indeed the world descend on Dartmouth every August for a packed programme of air sailing, sports, live music, street food, fireworks and more.
Rowing and Sailing are at the very core of Dartmouth Regatta week, incorporating the Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta. It is all about the river and the sea. The competition is fierce, and the fun is full on against the magnificent, scenic backdrop that is the South Hams.
Dart Gallery Summer Show, 15th July onwards
Dart Gallery’s big summer show launches in the gallery this July, featuring new work from gallery artists. You’ll find Stewart Edmondson’s majestic works, Chris Forsey’s coastal canvases, Heidi Archer’s mid-century landscapes, Kate Richardson’s cliff-top trees, Richard Barrett’s impressionist landscapes, Marie Mills’ abundant florals, Jack Frame’s glowing blossoms on gold leaf and Joanna Taylor’s atmospheric Dartmoor paintings all filling the ground floor of the gallery alongside vibrant landscapes from new face Steven McLoughlin.
Summer Spa Promotion, The Dartmouth Hotel, Golf Club and Spa
Get ready to pamper yourself with a blissful treatment, sip on some bubbly, and make the most of the top-notch facilities at The Dartmouth Hotel, Golf Club and Spa.
There are two options to choose from; either a 90-minute package including two treatments, a two-course lunch, a robe pack and full use of the facilities for the day. OR a 50-minute treatment, including one treatment, a glass of fizz, a robe pack and five hours of facility use.
‘Summer of Play’ at National Trust Greenway & Coleton Fishacre, 22nd July – 3rd September
It’s almost time for Summer of Play at selected National Trust locations! Discover every flavour of play at Greenway and Coleton Fishacre from 22 July – 3 September. Create, explore, move, wonder, make-believe.
Race against the clock on the obstacle course at Greenway House, test your aim on Clock Golf or take to the summer stage with costumes and props. There’s no end to the fun in the gardens at Greenway this summer. Relax in the Storytelling Tepee or explore the top garden and see what finds are waiting to be uncovered, the world’s your oyster.
Kids can go equally wild at Coleton Fishacre this summer with different nature activities! Try your hand at some of the favourite 1920s games on the loggia and have a go at traditional games outside.
Try it all, find your favourite, come back again and again. Summer of Play activities are free (normal admission applies).
South Devon Maize Maze, 22nd July – 3rd September
There’s a new maze for 2023 at South Devon Maize Maze this summer!
As this is the “Year of the Coast,” the maze is celebrating 50 years of the South West Coast Ppath with their giant UK map themed maze, with family friendly activities to do along the way.
The team have also separated the mini maze this year into a different field to make the mazes even bigger. Once you have navigated the maze try to find the tallest sunflower whilst you relax and take in the stunning rolling hills of South Devon and views of Dartmoor in the distance, with refreshments on hand from Proper Moorish catering.
Open Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday. 10am – 5pm (last entry 4pm).
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, The Flavel, 11th August onwards
Get your Spidey fix this summer with the colourful animated sequel to 2018’s big hit – ‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse‘ at The Flavel Cinema!
The film seamlessly picks up where its predecessor left off, thrusting us back into the mesmerizing world of the Spider-Verse. The animation is once again a visual feast for the eyes, with its vibrant colours, dynamic action sequences, and unique art style making it a fun watch for kids and adults alike. The attention to detail is awe-inspiring, making every frame feel like a meticulously crafted comic book panel brought to life.
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