Dartmouth/Kingswear South West Coast Path Walk, Dartmouth, South Devon
The South West Coast Path at Dartmouth/Kingswear
Along with Salcombe further down the coast, on sunny days, Dartmouth is up there with the best coastal destinations in the world. In the right conditions, it's an awesome place. We'd recommend experiencing Dartmouth by boat and on foot. For the latter, follow the South West Coast Path south of Dartmouth to Start Bay. Big cliffs give way to rolling South Devon countryside and stunning shingle beaches. Alternatively, head east and then north for big cliffs and secluded beaches before you hit Berry Head, Brixham and the southern section of The English Riviera.
Note that if you want to walk all of the South West Coast Path around Dartmouth then you'll need to use one of the ferries that crosses the River Dart and Estuary.
Walking the South West Coast Path south of Dartmouth/Kingswear
From central Dartmouth, follow the B3205 to Warfleet. The stretch of walking on the B3205 provides top views of the River Dart and Estuary. Loop around Warfleet and the path rises to Dartmouth Castle (English Heritage) and Darmouth Castle Tea Rooms. If you fancy a dip in the sea, drop down to either Castle Cove or Sugary Cove.
The South West Coast Path runs along cliffs above pretty coves and takes you to Little Dartmouth. Follow Redlap Lane to Stoke Fleming. You pass The Green Dragon and take a country lane to the A379. Take care walking the A379 down to the entrance to Blackpool Sands (Beach).
The path rises across a hill behind Blackpool Sands (Beach). It's from here that you get the classic view of one of the UK's favourite beaches. Cross the A379 and the path steeply drops and rises and rejoins the A379 at Strete. You pass The Kings Arms.
The South West Coast Path then descends to the upper section of Slapton Sands (Beach) where it meets Strete Gate Beach (Slapton Sands) with its distinctive cliffs.
You follow the line of the A379 and then cross the road where it branches off to Slapton. The path takes you between the A379 and Slapton Ley National Nature Reserve to a bird hide and the Torcross Sherman Tank in Trocross car park. Cross the road to the seafront and Start Bay Inn and Sea Breeze cafe.
Either walk or take the bus back to Torcross.
Walking the South West Coast Path east and north of Dartmouth/Kingswear
Alternatively, take a ferry from Dartmouth across to Kingswear. Follow the line of the coast to Kingswear Castle (it's a private let so it's not open to the public) and then walk to Brownstone Battery (National Trust) at Froward Point. You are on the coast below the distinctive landmark The Daymark Tower.
A very beautiful stretch of coastal walking takes you to the bottom of the garden at Coleton Fishacre (National Trust). If you've never been, it's a wonderful place.
The South West Coast Path then loops round to Scabbacombe Head and enters a hilly section running behind Scabbacombe Sands (Beach) and then Man Sands (Beach). The climbs from both of these are strenuous.
You then walk along cliffs to the southern section of Berry Head National Nature Reserve with its super views over St Mary's Bay to Berry Head. Berry Head is an amazing place. In addition to the National Nature Reserve, also explore Berry Head Forts. There's a cafe and small visitor centre on site.
From there, the path drops down to Brixham where you pass Berry Head Hotel, Shoalstone Outdoor Pool and Brixham Breakwater Beach before you come to central Brixham with its harbours and marina.
Walk or take a bus back to Dartmouth.
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