Stoke Gabriel | South Devon Village Guide
Often referred to as the ‘jewel of the Dart’, the village of Stoke Gabriel in South Devon is situated...
Dittisham, or ‘Ditsum’ to locals, is a picturesque riverside village nestled on the west bank of the River Dart.
Bordered by rolling South Devon countryside and situated in the heart of South Devon’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it’s a playground for those that love the water, with sailing, kayaking and paddleboarding all popular activities. What’s more, the surrounding wildlife is bountiful, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.
We’ve created a handy guide for those who want to explore the village of Dittisham. Use our quick links below to jump to a specific section, or read on for a full overview.
Whilst the village may appear somewhat sleepy and subdued, don’t be deceived, because you will find a wealth of things to do in Dittisham. For a small village, it really packs a punch!
Here are our favourite things to do in Dittisham…
Hire a motor boat, sailboat, kayak or stand up paddle board from Dittisham Boats which can be found on the pontoon next to the Ferry Boat Inn. From there, navigate the River Dart and explore its picturesque creeks and hidden beaches. If you’re feeling ambitious, make your way as far as Totnes or head in the opposite direction to Dartmouth.
The waters of Dittisham provide the ultimate crabbing experience, so grab your bucket and bacon and set about pulling those mighty-clawed crustaceans. Read our ultimate guide to crabbing in South Devon for the best hints and tips.
Dittisham enjoys a small sand and shingle beach that is exposed on a low tide. Located beneath the promenade adjacent to the Ferry Boat Inn, the drive to the beach is via a short and narrow road, and parking is minimal. We advise parking in the council car park next to the recreation ground, ‘The Ham’, and walking around to the shoreline.
Other beaches just a short drive from Dittisham include Blackpool Sands, Strete Gate, Torcross and Beesands.
Located on the Dart Valley Trail, Dittisham is a paradise for walking enthusiasts.
Cross the water to walk from Dittisham to Kingswear, and take in unforgettable views of the Dart on the way. Alternatively, stay on the Dittisham side of the river and hike along the southern bank, passing through the Raleigh Estate and Old Mill Creek on your way to the top of Dartmouth. You can combine the two for a circular walk – one of the most popular walking routes in South Devon. Find out more about the Dartmouth to Dittisham circular walk here.
At Coast & Country Cottages, we love walking, so much so we’ve created a comprehensive walking guide. Download your walking guide here.
‘The Ham’ is a large green expanse by the river – a quiet space surrounded by trees, with a fantastic view of the Dart. A popular spot with both residents and visitors, expect to find families resting on benches, tucking into picnics, or kicking a football. There’s also a refurbished playground that includes a popular wooden pirate ship.
A short passenger ferry ride across the river will take you to the Greenway Estate, the National Trust-owned former house and estate of Dame Agatha Christie. A fantastic place to visit, it’s well worth exploring the magical gardens and learning about its former owner and her life’s work.
Reaching the estate is simple, thanks to the low-cost Greenway ferry which leaves directly from the pontoon. Just ring the bell for service when required.
The historic town of Dartmouth is just half a half-hour boat journey from Dittisham, and the historic harbour town offers plenty to do and see. The Dittisham Ferry has a schedule that frequently goes to Dartmouth, so check the website for the most up-to-date timetable.
Spend a little time exploring the cobbled streets of Dartmouth that are jam-packed with independent stores and eateries, not forgetting Dartmouth Castle and the Dartmouth Steam Railway. For more inspiration, read our guide on the best things to do in Dartmouth.
Just a short drive from Dittisham is the historic market town of Totnes. Renowned for being the most eccentric town in Britain, Totnes is much loved by both residents and tourists. The main high street navigates from the banks of the River Dart up towards Totnes Castle (at the top of the hill) and is peppered with boutique shops, galleries, bakeries and cafes.
Read our Totnes guide for the full lowdown.
The Ferry Boat Inn, (locally known as the FBI), is located adjacent to Dittisham Quay, right on the water’s edge. The iconic pink building, which is impossible to miss from the water, is a popular watering hole that’s often brimming with happy punters.
From the interior, enjoy wonderful views of the River Dart and its wooded northern bank, or if you would rather have an al fresco experience, dine by the water’s edge. The atmosphere here is buzzing and the food is delicious too, making it a great bolthole come rain or shine.
The Anchorstone Café has become a renowned local chain of al fresco eateries. With branches in Dartmouth and Sharpham Vineyard, its original roots are firmly within the village of Dittisham. The Anchorstone Café boasts panoramic riverside views and is a popular place to enjoy delicious local seafood, such as crab, lobster, mussels and oysters.
A true community pub, The Red Lion also serves as a village shop, Post Office and library service. There are ales from Dartmoor Brewery, wines from all over the world, and food which emphasises locally-sourced meat, fish and seasonal vegetables.
Dittisham makes an ideal holiday base for those who want to authentically experience life by the river. At Coast & Country Cottages, we have a wide portfolio of properties in Dittisham, from romantic cottages on the water’s edge to luxury cottages boasting panoramic river views. You’re certain to find something to suit on our website!
To help narrow down your search for accommodation in Dittisham, below you will find some of our favourite Dittisham properties.
Bedrooms: 2 | Sleeps: 4 | Bathrooms: 2 | Pets: No
Bedrooms: 4 | Sleeps: 7 | Bathrooms: 2 | Pets: Yes
Bedrooms: 2 | Sleeps: 4 | Bathrooms: 2 | Pets: Yes
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