Attractions and Places To See in South Hams - Top 20

South Hams is rich in history. You can explore the 14th-century Dartmouth Castle, which guarded the estuary for centuries. Other notable historical sites include the ruins of Totnes Castle, the romantic Berry Pomeroy Castle, and the serene Buckfast Abbey. For literary enthusiasts, Greenway Estate, Agatha Christie's former home, offers a glimpse into her life and beautiful gardens.

Yes, South Hams offers many attractions suitable for families. Pennywell Farm provides animal encounters and farm activities, while Woodlands Family Theme Park is the largest theme park in Devon. The River Dart Country Park also offers a fun-filled day in a natural setting. For outdoor adventures, the Plym Valley Trail is a traffic-free route perfect for family cycling or walking through woodland.

Much of South Hams lies within the South Devon National Landscape, offering diverse natural beauty. You can visit Prawle Point for dramatic coastal views. The region boasts stunning beaches like Blackpool Sands, Bantham Beach (great for surfing), and Bigbury-on-Sea. The South West Coast Path also provides extensive trails with breathtaking ocean vistas and opportunities for wildlife observation.

South Hams offers excellent cycling opportunities. The Plym Valley Trail is a popular traffic-free route that runs through National Trust-owned woodland along the River Plym. It's part of the Devon Coast to Coast cycle ride. Another unique cycling experience is through Shaugh Tunnel, a 341m tunnel built by Brunel, now part of the Tavistock to Plymouth cycle route. For more challenging rides, explore the MTB Trails in South Hams.

Absolutely. South Hams is a fantastic destination for hiking. The South West Coast Path offers numerous trails along the dramatic coastline. You can also find trails leading to natural features like Dartmeet and Clapper Bridge, where the East and West Dart rivers meet. For a comprehensive list of options, check out the Hiking in South Hams guide, which includes routes like the Gara Point & Revelstoke Drive loop.

Beyond historical sites, South Hams offers unique cultural experiences. Take a memorable journey on the South Devon Railway between Buckfastleigh and Totnes, or enjoy a ride on the Dartmouth Steam Railway and Riverboat. Explore picturesque towns like Salcombe, known for its crab festival, or Dartmouth with its nautical history. Sharpham Vineyard & Cheese Dairy also offers wine tasting and local produce.

Beyond the well-trodden paths, you can discover hidden gems like Hope Cove, a picturesque village with stunning beaches and coastal walks. Bolberry Down is excellent for walking and kite flying with flat terrain. For a unique experience, visit Burgh Island, accessible by a sea tractor at high tide, known for its dramatic atmosphere and Agatha Christie connections.

Yes, you can visit Start Point Lighthouse, situated on one of the most exposed peninsulas in the region. It is the only working lighthouse in Devon open to the public, offering guided tours and spectacular views.

The diverse landscapes of South Hams, from coast to moorland, support a variety of wildlife. Along the coast, you might spot seabirds and marine life. The South Devon National Landscape is home to various bird species and mammals. For a guaranteed wildlife encounter, visit Dartmoor Zoo or the Buckfast Butterfly Farm and Dartmoor Otter Sanctuary.

The River Dart is central to many attractions. You can take scenic boat trips, enjoy water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding, or follow riverside trails. Dartmeet and Clapper Bridge marks the meeting point of the East and West Dart rivers, offering a picturesque spot with historical significance. The Greenway Estate also features beautiful gardens leading down to the River Dart.

Beyond castles, South Hams features interesting man-made structures. The Shaugh Tunnel, built by Brunel, is a fascinating piece of railway history now used by cyclists and pedestrians. You can also explore Froward Point Battery and Lookout Station, a World War II coastal defence site with remnants of gun emplacements and searchlight houses.