The River Dart begins its journey to the sea on Dartmoor, flowing through Buckfastleigh, Dartington and Totnes, where it becomes tidal. The rocky seaward entrance to the estuary is guarded by Dartmouth Castle on the West side and Kingswear Castle on the East.
The seafaring history of the town is recalled by some of the Street Names, such as Kings Quay, Old Rope Walk and Waterpool Lane. Buildings carry names such as The Ship In Dock, Sloping Deck, The Captain�s House, The Windjammer and The Floating Bridge - all now places to eat, drink or stay.
Dartmouth is linked to Kingswear, on the East side of the estuary, by two vehicle ferries and a passenger ferry. This is a view of the entrance to the Lower Ferry.
Most visitors will pass through Totnes on their way to Dartmouth. Totnes is steeped in history, the main street reputed to have more listed buildings per head of population than any other town in Britain.
Important links with the past include the Town Mill, The Guildhall, Totnes Photographic Archive, Totnes Elizabethan Museum and The Museum of Costume, Fashion and Textiles.
The town is guarded by Totnes Castle, a classic Norman motte and bailey with commanding views of the Dart Valley.
Blackpool Sands, set in a sheltered bay surrounded by evergreens and pines, is one of South Devon's most beautiful natural treasures just 3 miles West of Dartmouth on the beautiful heritage coast. An award-winning privately-managed family beach with turquoise blue sea which gives it an almost Mediterranean feel.
Don't be mislead by the name! It is shingle beach and carries the name "Sands" for historical reasons, as do all the main beaches in Start Bay.
Two miles up the river from Dartmouth lies the village of Dittisham, one of the most attractive and un-spoilt villages in Devon, which has in recent years, become a much sought-after place to live, a fact which is reflected its higher property prices.
Dittisham is on the West bank of the steep wooded river valley, sheltered from the prevailing south westerly winds and immediately across the river is Greenway House, for many years the summer home of Agatha Christie.