The Fascinating Maritime History of Salcombe and Why You Should Visit

From Medieval Haven to Busy Estuary

The landscapes around Salcombe, Devon, have attracted travellers and settlers for thousands of years. That said, Salcombe as we know it was first recorded in 1244, when a small fishing community began to take root. 100 years later, Salcombe’s harbour had begun to pick up in activity, becoming a base not only for fishing, but for military ventures too. In fact, in 1403, it was actually raided by French forces during the 100 Years’ War. Later, a number of British naval vessels left from Salcombe to transport troops to Brittany in retaliation.

Fort Charles: The Ruined Sea Fort at the Harbour Mouth 

Just outside Salcombe’s town are the remains of Salcombe Castle (also known as Fort Charles). Originally built under the order of King Henry VIII in 1544, the castle was intended to defend the Kingsbridge Estuary from potential French or Spanish invasion. Interestingly, while threats from the continent never materialised, the castle did end up playing a significant role in conflicts at home. 

Used as a Royalist garrison in the English Civil War, Fort Charles was the last castle in Devon to hold out against Parliamentarian forces, only surrendering in 1644. Deemed too much of a liability, it was ordered to be destroyed, and so, in 1647, it was. Today, the remains of one of the castle’s towers can still be seen along coastal strolls to North Sands Beach. 

Racing Fruit Schooners and Local Shipyards 

From the late 18th century and early 19th century, Salcombe, Devon, developed into a significant hub for shipbuilding in England. Making the most of the sheltered waterways of the Kingsbridge Estuary and profitable trade links, the town grew in tandem with its maritime industry. In total, it’s believed around 300 ships were built in the town in the 1800s and many of its residents were involved as shipwrights, carpenters, sailmakers, fishermen, sailors and more.

To begin with, many of the ships were used as part of trade with Newfoundland, a partnership in which salt was exported and preserved fish was imported. Later, ship designs evolved as precious cargos of perishable fruits began being imported from the Azores, Mediterranean and West Indies. This gave rise to the creation of Salcombe’s schooners (aka Salcombe Fruiters), beautifully streamlined boats designed to be as smooth and fast as possible – perfect for getting fruit as quickly as possible from their sunny origins to UK markets. 

Courage at Sea: The 1916 Lifeboat Disaster 

On Friday 27th October, 1916, one of the RNLI’s worst ever tragedies unfolded from the shores of Salcombe. In the midst of hurricane-force windows, local lifeboat volunteers rowed out to sea on the Emma and William to rescue the crew of a grounded schooner, Western Lass. Little did the lifeboatmen know, the Western Lass crew had already been rescued, but a tragic failure in communication meant the volunteers had already set out into the storm. 

Upon their realisation and return, the exhausted crew were struck by a huge wave, spilling them into the sea. Of the 15 crew, 13 died, shattering the Salcombe community and leaving 8 widows and 20 children behind. Salcombe Maritime Museum features a display dedicated to the 1916 Salcombe Lifeboat Disaster, the brave volunteers of Emma and William, and the community that rallied around its survivors.

Small Boats, Big Tradition: The Salcombe Yawl

What’s a Salcombe Yawl, we hear you ask? The Salcombe Yawl is a type of wooden sailing dinghy class that originates from Salcombe, Devon. It’s based on the hand-built fishing boats of the late 18th century that were an established part of the South Devon coast. Head over to Salcombe Yacht Club to see the first painting of a Yawl from 1853. Or, take part in the town’s summer regatta to learn about the Yawl’s 200-year-old legacy and role in local history (and hearts) – best viewed from the yacht club’s terrace! 

Beacons of the Bay: Start Point Lighthouse 

For a daytrip from Salcombe, Devon, one of the best places to visit is Start Point Lighthouse. An iconic sight atop the cliffs, the lighthouse dates back to 1836 when it was built by Trinity House. Having safely guided ships along the coastline for centuries, this Grade II listed building and its seasonal visitor centre are a must-visit during Salcombe holidays. What’s more, the views from the top are simply spellbinding.  

Planning Your Visit: What to See in a Day 

There is a huge array of things to see and do in Salcombe during a day or more. For ocean-lovers, the beaches offer an unrivalled chance to enjoy salt-kissed moments, such as Salcombe’s North Sands, South Sands, Mill Bay, and nearby East Portlemouth Beaches. For a tasty tipple or two, the Salcombe Gin Distillery is a bucket-list favourite, especially after a walk along the South West Coast Path. The Maritime Museum promises an unmissable opportunity to step back in time, while Overbecks Garden provides a subtropical escape with far-reaching estuary views. 

Where to Stay for a Salcombe Adventure 

Ready to experience the best of Salcombe, Devon? Perfectly positioned overlooking the coast, Leonards Cove in Stoke Fleming is only a short drive from Salcombe and provides the most idyllic base from which to explore. With a range of sea-view lodges, self-catering cottages, and clifftop camping, our scenic accommodation couldn’t be better for Start Bay holidays. Not to mention our onsite restaurant, year-round facilities, local walks and more…

Final Thoughts: Salcombe’s Living Sea Story 

If you can’t wait to launch your own fascinating adventure through past and present, there are few places more enchanting than Salcombe, Devon. With echoes of the town’s fascinating history and maritime legacy at every turn, you can immerse in the mystery and magic of its coastal landmarks, weathered ruins, glistening harbour, and immortalised traditions. In the end, what makes Salcombe so special?  Well, that’s up to you to decide!