Skip to content

Uncover the charm of Salcombe in just 48 hours: delve into stunning coastlines, a tranquil harbor, and a rich maritime legacy.

Scenic Salcombe, renowned for its delectable scones and stunning coastline, boasts picture-perfect beaches and an estuary. A favorite among sailors and yacht enthusiasts, this South Devon town carries a rich maritime past, serving as a major port with global trading ties, notably with...

Uncover the charms of Salcombe in just 48 hours, from its stunning coastline, protected harbor, and...
Uncover the charms of Salcombe in just 48 hours, from its stunning coastline, protected harbor, and rich maritime heritage.

Uncover the charm of Salcombe in just 48 hours: delve into stunning coastlines, a tranquil harbor, and a rich maritime legacy.

Nestled in the heart of South Devon, Salcombe is a picturesque seaside town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern amenities.

A Seaside Haven

Salcombe is renowned for its stunning beaches on either side of the estuary, creating a sheltered harbour that adds to its charm. The town's glorious beaches are a major draw for tourists, making it one of the best seaside destinations to visit in the UK.

The East Portlemouth Ferry

To reach the eastern shore, passengers can take the East Portlemouth Ferry, which traverses the Salcombe estuary. This ferry service maintains a long-standing connection between the two shores, and it continues to play a significant role in the local shellfishing industry, which is famous for its high-quality crab.

Dining and Accommodation

For those seeking a taste of local cuisine, the Ferry Inn on Fore Street offers a variety of seafood dishes, as well as other options, at reasonable prices. The Crab Shed, a quayside restaurant, specialises in local crab and offers breathtaking waterside views.

If you're looking for a place to stay, Higher Rew Camping Park is a five-acre site beautifully positioned near the estuary. It boasts newly refurbished washrooms, a playbarn, and a shop. Alston Farm, just five minutes from Salcombe, offers facilities such as three toilet and shower blocks, a large play area, and a dog-walk.

The Bake House on Fore Street is a popular spot for pastries and cheese and onion pasties, while the Salcombe Delicatessen offers sandwiches, pasties, pizza, and salad options for purchase.

Activities and Attractions

For those seeking adventure, half-day RYA dinghy sailing courses are available on the Salcombe estuary. Coasteering, a 2.5-hour session combining wild swimming, jumps, and rock traversing, is also available and costs £45.

Salcombe's rich maritime history is evident in its long-standing role as a significant port with trading links across the world, particularly in the fruit trade and shipbuilding. The National Trust Overbeck's Garden, located on the clifftops above Salcombe, offers a glimpse into this history with its subtropical plants from around the world.

Preservation and Conservation

The South Devon Coastal Group is responsible for the preservation and restoration of seagrass bed ecosystems in the Salcombe Bay. These seagrass beds are an important habitat for a variety of marine life, including protected species like spiny and short-snouted seahorses.

Beyond Salcombe

While Salcombe is a must-visit destination, it is not the only seaside town worth exploring. Alternatives include Scarborough and Tenby. For those seeking a more secluded experience, Start Point Lighthouse offers walks amid spectacular countryside and coastal scenery, with the possibility of spotting seals and dolphins.

Ilton Castle Farm, a CL site, offers five spacious touring pitches, showers, and battery charging for those seeking a camping experience.

In conclusion, Salcombe offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern amenities, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a memorable seaside experience in the UK.

Read also:

Latest