When thinking about South Devon, Blake’s immortal lines of “England’s green and pleasant land” immediately spring to mind. Blanketed by a patchwork of greenery, carved by gushing rivers and met by glistening coast, it’s a welcome contrast to the hubbub of city life.
The perfect way to explore this halcyon paradise, the award-winning Dartmouth Rail River encompasses all aspects of Devon’s stunning medley and invites visitors to drink in the sights from river, land and sea. From quaint towns to open water, they offer all kinds of trips. Here are some of our favourites:
Dartmouth River Cruise
One of Dartmouth River Rail’s most popular cruises, the Dartmouth River Cruise is a circular boat trip (beginning and ending in Dartmouth) that offers incredible views of a number of sites. Sailing on the lower part of the River Dart, you will see Bayards Cove, Kingswear and Dartmouth Castles, Sir Walter Raleigh's Boathouse and Greenway (the former home of Dame Agatha Christie), and much more. Full commentary is provided as you go, and the tour lasts for around one hour, leaving plenty of time to explore Dartmouth on foot afterwards.
Steam and Cruise
Combining a nostalgic trip by rail and river, the Steam and Cruise tour combines the best of both worlds. Start your journey on the steam train from Paignton to Kingswear before crossing the River Dart on a passenger ferry and hopping aboard the Dartmouth River Cruise, snatching incredible views of the river and estuary. As well as the fascinating sites along the banks, you may well be lucky enough to catch glimpses of the local wildlife as you go too, including regal birds such as herons, egrets, buzzards and even kingfishers.
Dartmouth to Totnes
Should you be looking for an even longer journey over the mirror-like waters of the beautiful River Dart, then the Dartmouth to Tones cruise is for you. Covering around 9 miles between the vibrant towns of Dartmouth and Totnes, this particular trip gives you the chance to really sit back and relax. As well as seeing the striking landmarks of the Dartmouth River Cruise, you will also see sprawling vineyards clinging to sun-drenched hillsides, thick woodland and rolling countryside too. This cruise usually runs between March and October.
Dartmouth Coastal Cruise
Starting and finishing in Dartmouth, the Dartmouth Coastal Cruise is one for the sea-lovers. Taking you along the river and out beyond the estuary towards Start Point, you will putter past picture-perfect coastal villages, incredible beaches (including the historically important Slapton Sands) and countless rocky coves. As the salt spray kisses your cheeks and the wind whips through your hair, keep your eyes peeled for seabirds, seals and dolphins!
Feeling inspired? Take a look at our luxury cottages in Dartmouth here.
Dartmouth River Boats, South Embankment, Dartmouth TQ6 9BH
