Our Favourite Coastal Walk Around Dartmouth Castle
One of my favourite walks around Dartmouth takes you out beyond Dartmouth Castle and along some of the most beautiful stretches of the South West Coast Path. It’s a wonderfully varied route with coastal views, hidden coves, and a touch of history — and it can be adapted depending on how energetic you’re feeling.
Where to Park
Instead of parking at Dartmouth Castle itself, take the higher road that runs above it. Drive all the way to the end and park safely near what I believe is called Sugary Green, above Sugary Cove. This is a much quieter starting point and sets you up perfectly for the walk.
From here, you can take the steep steps down beside the cliff to reach the castle and rejoin the South West Coast Path back towards Dartmouth. However, my preferred route heads in the opposite direction.
The Route Out Towards Compass Cove
From Sugary Green, follow the lane (or the coastal footpath if you prefer) towards a National Trust holiday cottage called Compass Cottage. Just before the cottage, take the footpath on your left — this is part of the South West Coast Path.
This section is fairly level and an absolute joy to walk. It takes you out beyond the mouth of the river, with uninterrupted coastal views and a real sense of calm.
As you continue, look out for a signposted path down to Compass Cove.
A Hidden Swimming Spot
If the tide is out, Compass Cove is a fantastic place for a swim. It’s peaceful, sheltered, and often almost empty — you might only see one other couple there, if anyone at all. It feels like a little secret spot, especially on a warm day.
Choosing Your Way Back
From here, you have a few options depending on how you feel:
Retrace your steps the way you came for a largely level walk back.
Climb the steep ascent up to the track that runs across the top of the field (not for the faint-hearted, but rewarding).
Make it a circular walk by continuing along the coastal path and looping back via Little Dartmouth car park.
Gallants Bower & Coastal History
On your return along the top track behind the Coastguard Cottages, keep an eye out just before the steep descent — there’s a small hole in the hedge that leads into an area called Gallants Bower.
This spot is well worth exploring. It’s the site of a hill fort used during the Civil War and offers breathtaking views over Dartmouth town and up the river towards Noss and beyond. On a clear day, it’s absolutely stunning.
From Gallants Bower, you can either head back the way you came or follow another path that leads down to Castle Road and back towards the car park.
This is a lovely, sunny walk that works beautifully for dog walkers too — just be mindful to choose the right paths depending on livestock and terrain. It’s a route full of variety: coastal drama, peaceful swimming spots, and layers of history, all in one outing.
If you’re looking for a walk that shows Dartmouth at its very best, this one never disappoints.
