Your Guide to Visiting Dartmouth During UK Summer Holidays 2025
If you’re planning a getaway during the UK summer holidays 2025, Dartmouth should be high on your list. This Devon town offers everything families, couples, and groups need for a memorable coastal escape: stunning views, beautiful beaches, top-notch food, and enough adventure to fill your entire break.
Here’s your guide to exploring Dartmouth and the surrounding area—plus where to stay if you want sea views, peace, and easy access to everything.
Best Beaches for Families
There’s no shortage of family-friendly beaches near Dartmouth, and each one has its own charm.
Blackpool Sands is the most well-known, and for good reason. It’s clean, safe, and backed by a café that serves up hot food and coffee all day. Lifeguards are usually on duty during peak weeks, and the water is perfect for a paddle or a kayak.
Slapton Sands is a little wilder, and great for older kids who want space to explore. There’s parking close by and a nature reserve right behind the beach, so you can turn a beach day into a mini wildlife adventure.
Sugary Cove, a tucked-away spot near Dartmouth Castle, is a quieter option for those looking to escape the crowds.
Where to Eat: Local Foodie Favourites
When you’re done with sandcastles and sun cream, Dartmouth’s food scene will keep you well-fed and happy. Here are a few favourites locals recommend:
The Seahorse is a staple for seafood lovers. If you like your fish fresh and your setting elegant without being fussy, this is your place.
Andria offers a modern European menu with a relaxed atmosphere and some inventive flavours. It’s a little different and worth booking ahead for.
Rockfish Dartmouth is ideal for families—easygoing, quick service, and located right on the harbour.
For something quick, Dartmouth Ice Cream Company serves hand-scooped cones perfect for an afternoon stroll along the water.
Scenic Walks with a View
One of the best things about visiting during the UK summer holidays 2025 is the longer days, which means more time to explore on foot. Dartmouth is surrounded by trails and coastal paths that suit all fitness levels.
The Dartmouth Castle Walk is short but packed with views. You’ll follow the river, pass historic spots, and end at the dramatic cliffs near the castle.
The Dart Valley Trail is a longer option. It takes you through woodland, farmland, and charming villages with river views all the way. It’s a full day if you want to do the whole loop, but shorter stretches are just as rewarding.
Slapton Ley Nature Reserve is flat, quiet, and great for spotting birds and butterflies.
Top Local Attractions for Families
A few standout attractions are especially good if you're travelling with kids, or just want a day with built-in fun.
Woodlands Family Theme Park is just outside Dartmouth and a must-visit for families. With indoor and outdoor play zones, a zoo, rides, and plenty of space to roam, it’s great even if the weather turns.
Crealy Theme Park and Resort is about an hour away but well worth the drive. It’s bigger, with rollercoasters, water rides, and adventure play.
Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company offers a nostalgic way to see the countryside—by steam train, paddle boat, or both. Kids love the novelty, and the views are unbeatable.
Why Leonards Cove is the Ideal Base
You could stay in town—but if you want space, views, and a bit more peace, Leonards Cove is where you’ll want to be.
Perched above the coast near Stoke Fleming, it’s just a short drive to Dartmouth and even closer to Blackpool Sands. Whether you're a couple looking for a sea-view lodge or a family needing space to spread out, Leonards Cove has options to suit.
And when the day's done? You can watch the sun dip into the sea from your private deck or walk down to the local pub for a quiet evening meal.
Tips for Making the Most of UK Summer Holidays 2025 in Dartmouth
● Book activities early: Things fill up fast in the summer months. Boat trips, popular restaurants, and theme parks are best booked ahead.
● Pack for variety: Days can go from sunny to breezy, so layers help. And don’t forget swimwear—even if just for paddling.
● Use local transport: Ferries, steam trains, and buses make exploring easy without the stress of parking in busy towns.
● Talk to locals: Whether it’s the person at the coffee cart or your host at Leonards Cove, locals always have the best recommendations.
Time to Plan Your Summer Break
There’s no better place to enjoy the UK summer holidays 2025 than Dartmouth. Whether you're digging your toes into the sand, sampling fresh fish by the harbour, or watching the sunset from a clifftop path, it’s a place where every day feels like a postcard.
Leonards Cove offers the perfect blend of quiet comfort and coastal access. Families, big groups, and couples come back year after year—and once you stay, you’ll understand why.
Ready to book your break? Visit leonardscove.co.uk to check availability and start planning your summer by the sea.