Discover Life Along the Dart: From Estuary Elegance to Moorland Majesty
Winding its way from the wild heart of Dartmoor to the serene shores of the South Devon coast, the River Dart carves a landscape rich in charm, heritage, and natural splendour. This breathtaking corridor encompasses bustling estuary towns, tranquil riverside villages, and remote moorland retreats, offering a uniquely diverse range of lifestyles — each with its own rhythm and allure.
At the river’s mouth, the historic maritime town of Dartmouth sets the tone with its world-class sailing, fine dining, and elegant architecture. Across the estuary and gently upriver, waterside villages like Dittisham, Stoke Gabriel, and Tuckenhay provide secluded charm and easy river access, ideal for boating enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape.
Further inland, the market town of Totnes brings a bohemian vibrancy and cultural richness, while neighbouring villages such as Dartington, Staverton, and Harberton offer artistic legacy, strong communities, and countryside elegance within easy reach of town amenities.
As the river climbs into Dartmoor National Park, the scenery becomes dramatic and untamed. Moorland hamlets like Holne, Hexworthy, and Postbridge offer unparalleled access to walking trails, ancient forests, and panoramic views — the perfect setting for those seeking solitude, heritage, and a deep connection to nature.
Whether you're drawn to estuary grandeur, vineyard-laced hillsides, or remote Dartmoor vistas, life along the Dart promises a timeless quality of living — where every village tells a story, and every home offers a front-row seat to Devon’s most treasured landscapes.
Dartmouth
Located at the river mouth, Dartmouth is a bustling maritime town known for its rich naval heritage, beautiful historic architecture, award-winning restaurants, and boutique shopping. Ideal for sailing enthusiasts, it offers exceptional estuary views, ferry services, and vibrant cultural events year-round.
Kingswear
Opposite Dartmouth, Kingswear boasts panoramic views across the Dart estuary. Famous for its charming hillside houses, heritage railway station, and excellent ferry connections, it provides a quieter yet conveniently located alternative to Dartmouth, popular with commuters and retirees.
Dittisham
A picturesque riverside village known for its charming cottages and tranquil quay. Popular with boaters and families alike, it offers peaceful living, riverside dining, and excellent opportunities for sailing, kayaking, and crabbing from its jetty.
Galmpton
A picturesque riverside village known for its charming cottages and tranquil quay. Popular with boaters and families alike, it offers peaceful living, riverside dining, and excellent opportunities for sailing, kayaking, and crabbing from its jetty.
Cornworthy
Tucked away in peaceful rolling countryside near Bow Creek, Cornworthy is ideal for those seeking rural tranquillity. It’s particularly attractive to walkers, cyclists, and those wishing for quiet village life while still being within easy reach of larger towns.
Tuckenhay
This quaint hamlet along Bow Creek is famous for its riverside pub, The Maltsters Arms. Its picturesque waterside setting makes it perfect for those seeking relaxed country living with excellent opportunities for boating, wildlife watching, and riverside strolls.
Ashprington
Ashprington offers access to the beautiful Sharpham Estate and vineyards. Known for stunning walks, high-quality local wine, and scenic countryside vistas, it appeals strongly to those who value sustainability, community spirit, and the arts.
Stoke Gabriel
Celebrated for its millpond, riverside scenery, and crabbing activities, Stoke Gabriel blends village charm with practical amenities. Ideal for families, retirees, and boating enthusiasts, it offers a friendly community and easy river access.
Totnes
A vibrant historic market town famed for its independent spirit, diverse shopping, lively arts, music scene, and excellent eateries. Totnes attracts residents who appreciate a blend of heritage, culture, sustainable living, and convenient transport connections.
Littlehempston
A peaceful rural village close to Totnes, providing quiet countryside living with easy access to larger amenities. Attractive to walkers, cyclists, and those seeking community-focused village life close to transport and cultural hubs.
Dartington
Home to Dartington Hall, renowned internationally for cultural events, education, and arts initiatives. Dartington appeals to residents valuing creativity, intellectual life, beautiful gardens, historic architecture, and countryside tranquility within close reach of Totnes.
Harberton
Characterised by its traditional Devon architecture and a strong community spirit, Harberton provides peaceful rural living close to Totnes. The village is perfect for those seeking heritage, tranquillity, and village community life.
Broadhempston
A traditional village with attractive cottages, thriving local pubs, and strong community spirit. It offers peaceful rural living within easy reach of Totnes and Dartington, appealing strongly to those valuing village life, countryside, and community engagement.
Staverton
Picturesque Staverton is famous for its beautiful riverside walks, heritage railway station, and medieval bridge. Ideal for residents seeking tranquil rural charm, historic character, and a welcoming community atmosphere with easy access to Totnes and Dartmoor.
Berry Pomeroy
Berry Pomeroy is renowned for its striking castle ruins, providing atmospheric countryside surroundings and historical interest. Ideal for residents who appreciate heritage, rural tranquillity, and easy access to nearby Totnes and Torbay.
Harbertonford
A riverside village historically known for its mills, Harbertonford combines countryside charm with practical village amenities. Attractive to families and residents seeking a quieter pace while benefiting from proximity to Totnes.
Buckfastleigh
Known for the historic Buckfast Abbey, traditional architecture, Dartmoor Steam Railway, and easy access to Dartmoor National Park. Ideal for residents who value history, nature, community spirit, and a convenient gateway to moorland adventures.
Dean Prior
A small rural village near Buckfastleigh, offering peaceful countryside living within easy access of Dartmoor’s stunning landscapes. Perfect for those who seek solitude, natural beauty, and quiet village life.
Holne
A Dartmoor village situated close to the upper reaches of the Dart, providing excellent walking trails, stunning moorland scenery, and community-focused village life. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking tranquillity.
Scorriton
Near Holne, Scorriton offers rural charm and easy access to Dartmoor National Park. Popular with walkers and nature lovers, it provides peaceful community living amidst beautiful moorland landscapes.
Dartmeet
The iconic location where the East Dart and West Dart rivers merge. Famous for its beautiful scenery, historic clapper bridge, and walking routes. Dartmeet attracts nature lovers, walkers, and outdoor enthusiasts keen to explore the moorland heartland.
Hexwrothy (West Dart)
A small, picturesque hamlet situated by the West Dart river, perfect for outdoor lovers, walkers, and anglers. It offers an authentic Dartmoor experience surrounded by wild scenery and tranquility.
Huccaby
Close to Hexworthy, Huccaby is famed for its historic church and scenic riverside location. Ideal for residents appreciating solitude, rural beauty, and direct access to riverside and moorland trails.
Two Bridges (West Dart)
Near the West Dart, this centrally located Dartmoor hamlet offers excellent hiking, historic interest, and welcoming amenities like the Two Bridges Hotel. Ideal for residents who value Dartmoor’s wild landscapes, outdoor activities, and heritage.
Postbridge (East Dart)
A popular Dartmoor hamlet renowned for its ancient clapper bridge and beautiful riverside setting. Ideal for those seeking dramatic scenery, moorland tranquility, and outdoor recreation.
Belliver (East Dart)
Known for the beautiful Bellever Forest, archaeological sites, and moorland beauty, it’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those who value natural surroundings, peace, and opportunities for exploring Dartmoor’s rich heritage.
