The picturesque town of Kingsbridge is a beautiful destination in the South Hams. Nestled at the head of the Kingsbridge Estuary in the South Devon National Landscape, it is encompassed by leafy valley greenery and only a short distance from the coast. The perfect base for exploring, Kingsbridge promises a wealth of shops, eateries and attractions within its network of charming streets, as well as an abundance of things to do nearby.
To curate a dream staycation in Kingsbridge, here are some of the best things to do for scintillating escapes.
Kingsbridge Cookworthy Museum
One of the best things to do in Kingsbridge is a visit to Cookworthy Museum. Providing an intriguing insight into local history, the museum is located in the Old Grammar School and features over eight galleries filled with exhibitions about Kingsbridge’s past. Open seasonally from March to November, it showcases thousands of photographs, from early glass plates to contemporary snapshots, as well as special and permanent displays. Discover the origins of the town, from the first tenth century records, to the evolution of its market trade and its dynamic social history. You can also see fascinating antique equipment and archaeological finds, from Cookworthy porcelain and authentic Victorian fashion to vintage wagons built to navigate the steep, sloping lanes of the South Hams.
The Voyage Spa
For those seeking soothing sanctuary on the South Devon coast, a relaxing spa day promises blissful rest and recuperation with The Voyage Spa at Thurelstone near Kingsbridge. Inside, mood lights illuminate a crystalline pool with comfortable day beds and armchairs, ensconced in dreamy décor nodding to the golden age of ocean cruising. Branching off, treatments rooms, a sauna, steam room, laconium, hydrotherapy pool and fitness suite all entice with complete calm and encourage moments of mindfulness. Choose from a range of spa and massage treatments and, to complement your experience, enjoy the dining facilities for a leisurely afternoon tea or delicious meal with a backdrop of sea views.
Overbeck’s Garden
One of the best things to do in South Devon and one of the prettiest gardens to visit in the county, Overbeck’s Garden is a verdant idyll. Perched in a leafy pocket overlooking the countryside and coast of Salcombe, this twentieth-century garden is only a short distance from Kingsbridge and is an enchanting place to visit. Follow manicured trails through the broad leaves of subtropical plants and the multi-coloured blooms of rare flowers and absorb the tranquillity of the setting. The former home of Edwardian chemist and collector, Otto Overbeck, the garden is now managed by the National Trust and open on select days throughout the year. Explore the house, wander the gardens, and join up with the nearby South West Coast Path for further exploration. You can also seek refreshments at the pop-up Gastrobox in the grounds.
Salcombe Gin Distillery
Promising a unique experience in Devon, a trip from Kingsbridge to Salcombe Gin Distillery is hard to resist. Residing on the waterfront of Batson Creek on the Salcombe Estuary, this famed establishment is home to a working distillery and a well-known gin and rum school. Operating throughout the year, this connoisseur’s delight produces a range of multi-award-winning spirits and offers guided tours and experiences too. Whether you are curious about the processes involved in handcrafting and distilling spirits, can’t wait to curate your own bespoke blend, or are simply looking for a novel way to experience your favourite beverage, this is the place to go. Sign up to a distillery tour or experience in advance to avoid disappointment.
Kingsbridge Estuary
A flowing waterway of green and blue, the Kingsbridge Estuary begins in Kingsbridge and runs for around five miles, all the way past Salcombe and East Portlemouth on its journey to the sea. Joined by a marbled network of creeks and streams, the estuary, or ria, started life as a wooded valley, before being flooded by rising sea levels thousands of years ago. With little freshwater and a large tidal range, the estuary is a true haven for unique marine plants and animals and is an explorer’s dream. Just perfect for waterside walks and kayaking adventures, it beckons for peaceful pauses in the restorative embrace of nature. Especially lovely destinations for wanders and alfresco picnics, you can reach Bowcombe Creek, West Charleton and Frogmore on foot along the estuary from Kingsbridge.
South Devon Chilli Farm
Beloved by everyone from British actress Gillian Anderson to chefs Jamie Oliver and Greg Wallace, the South Devon Chilli Farm is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Kingsbridge. Located at Wigford Cross, near Loddiswell, the business has grown over the last thirty years to become a veritable chilli mecca. Experts at everything chilli-related, the farm’s knowledgeable team nurture an extensive variety of plants from seed and offer a range of chillies for sale in unique forms. Arrive at the farm and peruse the array of sauces and preserves, fresh chillies and potted plants, and powders and chilli flakes. There’s even chilli chocolate for the sweet-toothed. Visits are usually complemented by delicious chilli samples, and you can explore the farm’s seasonal show tunnels and nursery too.
Slapton Ley National Nature Reserve
Set behind one of the best beaches in South Devon, Slapton Ley National Nature Reserve is renowned for its glorious scenery and stunning wildlife. Sheltering the largest natural lake in the South West and protected from the sea via a shingle belt, its environment is as diverse and multi-faceted as its beauty. Follow the trails around the SSSI and enjoy the tapestry of woodland, marshes, reedbeds, and coastline. For bird lovers, this is a particularly lovely spot to take a pair of binoculars and look out for the different species of resident and migratory avians throughout the year. For smooth access, there are three car parks around the nature reserve, and you can also branch off and explore the shorefront of Slapton Sands.
Heron Valley
The wonderful Heron Valley rests in a pastoral patchwork just a short distance from Kingsbridge. A family-run farm and orchard with a welcoming coffee and gift shop, it is an idyllic destination for simply whiling away the time in blissful quietude. Gather together your nearest and dearest or head over yourself and discover the artisan drinks created onsite. Free of sulphites and additives, each one is made using the very best, natural ingredients with as minimal mileage as possible. A particular speciality, Heron Valley’s award-winning range of ciders is especially appetising, filled with apples from the farm and local, pesticide-free orchards. One of the best spots to savour an ice-garnished drink in summer is the beautiful courtyard garden, where stunning views of the Avon River Valley draw the eye for miles. Ensure you also keep a look out for the venue’s special events for added magic, from wildlife talks to pop-up dining eves.
Soar Mill Cove
Should you be seeking an unforgettable day by the sea, head over to Soar Mill Cove on the South Devon Coast. Just a few miles from Kingsbridge, this sheltered sandy beach nestles between greenery-swathed cliffs and can be reached via the South West Coast Path or by boat. Perfect for those looking for quiet coastal escapism, it offers a blanket of golden sand that’s lapped by turquoise waters in summer. And it’s dog-friendly too. Pack a picnic and walk down to the beach for seaside repose. If you would like to complement your day further, you can also visit Soar Mill Cove Hotel above the beach, where a Discovery Spa and sea-view dining room await. Treat yourself to a relaxing spa treatment or wholesome repast and enjoy an enchanting day on the South Devon coast.
Feeling inspired for a South Hams sojourn? Uncover our luxury cottages in Kingsbridge.
