Captains Lockyer Kingswear Holiday Let

1. Dartmouth & Kingswear on the River Dart

Dartmouth and Kingswear sit opposite one another on the wide, sheltered mouth of the River Dart. Colourful houses climb the hillsides, boats come and go with the tide, and the water is rarely still for long.

From Captains Lockyer you look across to Dartmouth’s historic waterfront, with its mix of fishing boats, yachts, and the occasional naval vessel. Ferries glide back and forth throughout the day, making it wonderfully easy to cross the river whenever the mood takes you.

Whether you choose to linger on the Kingswear side and soak up the quieter village feel, or head over to bustling Dartmouth for shops, galleries, and harbourside walks, you’re never far from the water.

2. Things to Do in Dartmouth

Step off the ferry into the heart of Dartmouth. Start with an easy stroll along the harbourside, watching the ferries, fishing boats, and river cruisers come and go. Benches dotted along the embankment invite you to pause with an ice cream or takeaway coffee.

Wander the narrow streets and you’ll find independent shops, galleries showcasing local artists, and characterful buildings that hint at Dartmouth’s maritime history. It’s the kind of place that rewards slow exploring, with plenty of little discoveries down side lanes and courtyards.

When it’s time to refuel, choose from cosy cafés, harbourside pubs, and restaurants serving fresh local seafood. Many spots offer outside seating so you can linger over lunch while watching the river.

For a sense of history and big coastal views, follow the riverside path or take a short boat trip to Dartmouth Castle, guarding the mouth of the estuary. You can also join a scenic river cruise or boat trip up the Dart towards Dittisham and Totnes, passing wooded banks, creeks and grand riverside homes along the way.

3. Things to Do in Kingswear

Kingswear has a peaceful, tucked-away feel, with steep lanes, pretty cottages and ever-changing views over to Dartmouth. From Captains Lockyer you can wander down through the village, stopping to admire glimpses of the river and the rolling South Hams countryside beyond.

Join the paths that weave around the village for relaxed circular walks, or head a little further to pick up the South West Coast Path for more dramatic clifftop scenery. From here you’ll find quiet stretches of coast, hidden coves and far-reaching views along Start Bay.

Back in the village, enjoy a drink or meal at one of Kingswear’s welcoming pubs. Many guests like to end the day here, watching the lights of Dartmouth reflect on the water before the gentle stroll back up to the house.

4. Local Highlights Within a Short Trip

You don’t need to travel far from Captains Lockyer to fill your days. Many of the area’s best-loved attractions are within a short drive or a simple ferry and steam train journey.

• Dartmouth Steam Railway – Join the heritage steam railway at Kingswear Station and enjoy a nostalgic ride along the coast towards Paignton, with sweeping sea and river views from the carriages.
• Beaches & coves – Families and sea swimmers love Blackpool Sands, a beautiful shingle beach backed by evergreens, while smaller coves and bays nearby offer quieter spots for paddling, rock-pooling and picnics.
• Coleton Fishacre (National Trust) – Explore an elegant 1920s country house with lush, subtropical gardens that tumble down towards the sea. Footpaths lead to viewpoints and hidden corners perfect for lingering.
• Greenway (National Trust) – Once Agatha Christie’s holiday home, Greenway is nestled above a quiet stretch of the River Dart. Wander through woodland and riverside gardens, imagining the author at work, and enjoy tranquil views of the water and surrounding hills.
• River & coastal walks – From gentle riverside ambles to more energetic coastal hikes, there are routes for every mood. Many paths can be linked with ferries or the steam railway, turning even a short walk into a memorable day out.

5. Getting Around & Practical Tips

One of the joys of staying at Captains Lockyer is how little you need to rely on the car. Ferries link Kingswear and Dartmouth in just a few minutes, and the Dartmouth Steam Railway and local buses open up easy, scenic routes along the coast and up the valley.

Most local journeys are pleasantly short, whether you’re heading to the beach, visiting a National Trust property, or simply popping over to Dartmouth for dinner. It all helps days feel unhurried and relaxed.

After a day of exploring, Captains Lockyer is a calm, comfortable base to come home to. Watch the last light fade over the river, plan tomorrow’s adventures, and enjoy the feeling of being close to everything while still tucked away in your own peaceful corner of Kingswear.