How to get to Dartmouth, Devon

Situated in the delightful South Devon, Dartmouth is easily accessible via various modes of transportation. Please be advised that the roads can be narrow. If you have any concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Open Directions

  • Dartmouth is easily reached via the A381 from Totnes or Kingsbridge, offering one of the most scenic drives in South Devon. Roads can be narrow and winding, particularly in summer, so allow extra time and drive carefully.

  • The nearest mainline station is Totnes, with direct services from London Paddington and Exeter. From Totnes, you can take a bus, taxi, or enjoy the picturesque Dartmouth Steam Railway connection during the season.

  • The closest airports are Exeter and Bristol. From there, hire a car or travel by train to Totnes before continuing on to Dartmouth. Allow plenty of time for onward connections, particularly outside peak travel hours.

  • Dartmouth town centre has limited parking, especially during summer and regatta season. Park & Ride services operate at busy times, and long-stay car parks are available on the outskirts but arriving early is recommended.

  • Dartmouth sits on the River Dart, and ferries connect the town with Kingswear and nearby villages. Tickets can be purchased on the day, but during peak season it’s wise to check timetables in advance as services are weather dependent.

Arriving in Dartmouth by Ferry from Totnes

Travelling from Totnes to Dartmouth by river is one of the most scenic ways to arrive in the town. The route is operated by the Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company. The cruise takes around 90 minutes and runs seasonally from April to October, with timings dependent on tides. It forms part of the wellknown Round Robin, which links boat, steam train and bus travel across South Devon.

 

  • The journey passes rolling countryside, riverside homes, wildlife habitats and the Sharpham Estate vineyards. Approaching Dartmouth by water offers a memorable view of the harbour and town.

  • Boats dock directly on the Embankment, placing visitors immediately in the centre of Dartmouth and within easy walking distance of shops, cafés and the riverside paths.

  • Although Dartmouth never had a functioning railway station, the town and surrounding area retain strong railway connections.

    • Kingswear: Belle Bistro

    Located on the platform at Kingswear Station, Belle Bistro serves homemade cakes, cream teas and light meals. It uses locally sourced produce and is a convenient stop for those joining the steam railway or crossing from Dartmouth.

    • Paignton: Head of Steam Café

    Situated at Paignton Station, this café offers hot drinks, sandwiches and locally made cakes. It is a popular place to pick up refreshments before boarding the steam train.

    • Dartmouth: Embankment Bistro

    Built on the original railway platform that never saw a train depart, the Embankment Bistro is a distinctive feature of the town’s riverside. Its setting makes it a point of interest for visitors exploring Dartmouth’s heritage.