LOCAL INFORMATION
Kingswear
A village near to the mouth of the river Dart Estuary, it is on the North East bank of the river Dart estuary and stands opposite the ancient sea faring port of Dartmouth, Devon. The village has a Church, Primary School, Library, local shops, public houses, restaurants, rail station which has a seasonal steam train service to Paignton. It is the home of the Royal Dart Yacht Club and has the convenience of an established marina, Darthaven, Devon . The Village Store reopens in February 2022, please use it or we loose it!
Two vehicle/passenger and one passenger only ferries link Kingswear with Dartmouth and run throughout the day all year round.
A bus service links the village with the Torbay towns of Brixham, Paignton and Torquay.
A great vintage steam train service runs between Torquay, Paignton and Kingswear with other stops along the way. This service is a must for steam train enthusiasts, children and anyone who wants to rekindle their memories of steam trains. They run a wide range of steam engines including Thomas the Steam Engine. The steam trains run from Easter to October inclusive. I recommend the “Round Robin Ticket”, it lets you make a roundtrip using the Dartmouth/Totnes Ferry, the Totnes/Paignton open top Bus and the Paignton/Kingswear Steam Train. You can stay at each location for as long as you like but dont miss the last Ferry, Bus, Steam Train of the day!
Visit Higher Brownstone Farm, National Trust, with its 298 acres and footpaths, or try Coleton Fishacre Estate, another National Trust property with walled gardens, coastal footpaths and cove. This has been extended recently. Close to the house there is a formal pool garden and elsewhere wooded areas full of wild flowers descend the slopes to the sea. The micro-climate in the narrow valley at Coleton allows many rare and tender plants to flourish. The wide variety of exotic plants provides interest throughout the year. Bamboos, mimosas, myrtle and other moisture-loving plants grow profusely around the pool and streams. In the spring the thickly planted rhododendrons, magnolia and camellias create a stunning display of colour. A gazebo provides superb views over the sea below.
Broadband we have installed a free use connection which you can use for emails, surfing the web, etc. – all you have to do is bring you computer, and other associated equipment with you.
We supply a modem / router but some people like to use their own modem as it will not require changing network settings.
Food
Usual pub grub fare
The Steam Packet offers bar meals eat in, or takeaway
The Ship Inn and the Royal Dart Yacht Club all serve food
Two pubs serving food are within 5 minutes walk of Rose Cottage
Fish & Chips at the Rock Fish is exceptional quality at a fair price.
Pubs
Ship Inn – quiz nights out of season, and the Steampacket Inn, best for meeting the locals
In addition to The Ship Inn there is also the Steam Packet. The Ship Inn is the only one with a beer terrace though.
Clubs (Dance Music)
Oh come on, this is a small sleepy Devon village.
Music Venues
The Steam Packet offers music most Saturdays and are well attended
Cinemas
Torquay has the nearest multiplex cinema, but Dartmouth does have a great Art Centre called The Flavel which is situated by the Mayors car park Dartmouth, and offers a great range of films and entertainment.
Buses
Kingswear
The local bus stop is called the Banjo and is situated in front of the Village Shop, you can visit Brixham, Paignton & Torquay from here the bus timetable can be seen and printed from the following two links –
http://www.stagecoachbus.com/PdfUploads/Timetable_27305_120.pdf
http://www.torbaybusroutes.co.uk/Timetables/22-24.pdf
Dartmouth
The closest Bus Stop in Dartmouth is the Pontoon by the side of the Float, it is situated between the Float and the Station Restaurant / Pontoon, you can visit Blackpool Sands, Plymouth, Totnes, Salcombe –
http://www.firstgroup.com/ukbus/devon_cornwall/journey_planning/
KINGSWEAR TAXI
The local taxi man is Kingswear Taxi 0 77 59 76 64 42
Greenway Ferry
A fully restored World War 2 MTB called The Fairmile is a great boat to see the local sights from, they offer a great range of trips on various ferries at very reasonable prices, so have a look at the link –
http://www.greenwayferry.co.uk/
Greenway
The National Trust has spent a fortune renovating Greenway House & Garden, it was the home of Agatha Christie, you can walk their from Rose Cottage along the river wood path or take the Greenway Ferry.
https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/greenway/
Coleton Fishacre
The National Trust also owns the local holiday home owned by the D`Oyly Carte family at Coleton Fishacre. You can walk their from Rose Cottage along the coastal path, or drive to it.
http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/coleton-fishacre/
Steam Trains
You can travel by steam train to Paignton.
The best trip is the “Round Robin”, it has three legs –
Steam Train to Paignton,
Open Top Bus Paignton to Totnes,
Ferry Totnes to Dartmouth.
You can go whichever way you want and spend as long as you want at each location as long as you don`t miss the last legs. Its a great day out for everyone and is a very reasonable price. Full details at –
http://www.dartmouthrailriver.co.uk/times-fares
Kingswear Castle Paddle Steamer
This is the last coal fired Paddle Steamer and it has returned to where it first sailed from –
http://www.dartmouthrailriver.co.uk/days-out/paddle-steamer-kingswear-castle
Dartmouth
Dartmouth is situated at the wide mouth of the River Dart the town rises up the hills.
The large modern marina has meant up-market shops being introduced, but the town`s history is never far away. It has a very large range of restaurants, public houses and small specialist shops as well as the major chains. The range of restaurants is considerable so their is no need to ever cook in your vacation rental home.
Market on Tuesdays and Fridays. The river front gives good views and you can book river trips to Totnes, Dittisham, etc. The castle at the entrance to the river is a popular walk, about one mile.
The Mayflower left here for America in 1620, an event recorded on a stone. The town has a proud naval history, and is the home of the Britannia Royal Navy College, Devon which can be seen from your holiday cottage.
Well known for its impressive firework display at the end of Regatta Week, the last week in August. This is the busiest week of the year so it is essential that you book your holiday accommodation early.
Dartmouth, Devon is a great location for a family holiday as their are attractions to meet every need, you can enjoy a weekend break or stay a week or more in the west country.
A national newspaper stated that there were only two places to be at New Year, either Times Square, New York or Dartmouth. This is because everyone dresses up in fancy dress at New Year and people come from all over the country to have a good time without any trouble!
The Flavel Art Centre has a great programme of films, theatre, exhibitions, etc – it is essential that you look at the programme. The Flavel Art Centre is situated next to the Mayors Car Park and offers a Bistro and library facility.
http://theflavel.org.uk/TheFlavel.dll/Home
Crab fishing – if you have young children you must buy a “hand line” and fish for crabs anywhere along the river bank. It is the cheapest pastime known to man and your children will remember it for the rest of their lives. It is not cruel as the crab is not hooked, please return all crabs into the river!
Food
A wide range of restaurants can be found in Dartmouth that include Michelin stared fish, Polish, Chinese, Indian, Local Produce only, pub grub, Fish & Chips, English, you will be spoilt for choice and value.
Pubs
The Castle Hotel, the Market House
The Cherub – great range of cask ales, bar snacks and restaurant
Royal Castle Dartmouth Arms – great food and drink, opposite The Float
No need to worry about drink and driving as you can walk to your self catering holiday cottage from here, but try using the ferry rather than swimming
Cafes and coffee shops
loads
Cafe Al Fresco`s is brilliant, great coffee, great food and great ambience, try one of their breakfasts.
Tazza Cafe Italian style coffee bar with expresso etc and light snacks, Licensed.
Dartmouth Thursday Walks
Enjoy an organised walk, a different route each Thursday, all the walks are graded and timed, full details at –
http://theflavel.org.uk/TheFlavel.dll/Home
Today`s Inshore forecast
Inshore weather and shipping forecast, Dartmouth, Devon
Dart Harbour web site provides live shipping and inshore weather forecasts directly from the Met Office. This information is updated four times per day at or after approximately 0015, 0505, 1130 and 1725 hours
http://www.dartharbour.org/weather-and-tides/inshore-forecast/
Today`s Weather & Tides
Today`s tide times are taken from data supplied directly to Dart Harbour by the UK Hydrographic Office.
Dart Harbour also provides a daily printed booklet with tide times, shipping and inshore forecasts, a three-day forecast and synoptic charts. It is free and can be collected from reception during opening hours.
http://www.dartharbour.org/weather-and-tides/
Woodlands Theme Park, Dartmouth
Lets go! It`s half term and Woodlands multi indoor centres are packed with fun. Outdoor zones are all geared up for a fantastic day out, all for the cost of £6.00 per person.
The variety of play in the massive Empire of the Sea Dragon provides action for all ages with three rides, the best slides, fantastic venture challenges and exciting soft play for little ones. The riskiest ride in the Empire is the Trauma Tower, hold on as it climbs up 45ft but watch out for the big drop which leaves stomachs high in space. For the best views of the five floors of action whirl up on the Dragon Mini Wheel, or for a more gentle thrill the submarine ride is perfect.
Trot over to the Master Blaster where all ages play the zippiest game in the Universe, volcanoes, blasters and cannons keep families in a firing frenzy of fun. Next door toddlers have their own activities in the Big Top Soft Play, juniors enjoy climbing, swinging and sliding in the Acrobats Funderland while the circus train puffs by.
As well as the 100,000 sq.ft. of undercover play a whole lot of the outdoor rides are open. The Sea Dragon Swing Ship is a white knuckle monster 11 metres high for a whoosh of negative G force, then bish bash your way around the Bumper Boat pond. The Big Fun Farm has five massive barns to explore. Amazing new daytime & night time creatures join favourite animals, there are not only rabbits to cuddle but rascally raccoons and exotic cockatiels to enjoy with creepy Giant Millipedes, Sugar Gliders and glow in the dark Scorpions to marvel at. The Reptile House is home to tiny Bearded Dragons and at the other end of the ‘scale’ Homer, a 12 foot Albino Burmese Python. It’s a Zoo-in-a-Farm! Accelerate the Big U-Drive Tractors past the giant scarecrows; little ones can pedal tiny tractors and fire engines round Windmill Village.
The Falconers are on hand to show you the birds and answer questions but there are no flying displays at the moment. If you haven’t got one of those lucky coloured tickets yet try asking at your local TIC. Half term outings are big at Woodlands; it’s incredible value for all the family. Click here to see their website.
Television filming location
Dartmouth is used as a filming location for a varied range of television programmes and feature films they range from the Onedin Line to the currently very popular such as Down to Earth and Return of the Chef. The latter features John Burton Race in The New Angel restaurant. You will often see UK and European TV and feature film crews working in Dartmouth.
Kingswear to Brixham – Coastal Footpath
A very well travelled neighbour told me that this is his most enjoyable walk in the whole World.
In Kingswear, find the train station or lower ferry crossing (very easy in this village) and walk through the arch beside the Post Office, turn left up Alma Steps and then right along the single track road. The road passes by plenty of small, expensive houses, but the town quickly peters out and after turning right downhill, you`re finally away and on a wonderful woodland path. Dive steeply into the woods and back up the other side; this is a taste of what`s to come. Views of the mouth of the Dart and Dartmouth Castle pop into sight occasionally, and an old tower overlooking a cove is passed. The signs saying `DANGER! Keep Out!` put paid to any childlike exploration. Once away from civilisation and regulations, the walk becomes somewhat life-affirming; dappled sunlight sprays through the trees on a sunny day, and some of the old conifers here are truly fantastic.
The coastguard lookout and World War Two battery at Froward Point provide an excellent excuse for a break, though coast path virgins may wonder how the distance covered so far can be little more than a mile and a half! Now run by the National Coastwatch Institution, the area is well worth exploring, as much of the World War Two infrastructure is still intact. From here, purists will walk down the hill to the right, as it passes closer to the sea; those with less time or stamina, or both, can walk past the buildings and save a few hundred yards. Keep an eye on the twin rock of the Mew Stone here, where sea-birds drop guano and seals may be seen by the lucky hiker. Somewhere around this part of the route, walkers usually begin to feel they are doing something really special.
The path now variously takes in wild, open sections with good views and woodland strolls; steep slopes and level ambles; and, on a path that often feels remote, odd sections where plants have escaped from the gardens of the National Trust`s Coleton Fishacre estate. On Pudcombe Cove`s steep cliffs, peregrine falcons breed, buzzards hover overhead, and stonechats may sweet-chick away. Eventually, descend a bracken-covered hillside to reach Scabbacombe Sands. This is the most remote beach you will come to, and is popular with nude and semi-nude bathers; those with conservative sensibilities may wish to continue. In fact, over the next hill is Man Sands, a longer stretch of pebble and sand – and probably a preferable lunch stop, as there is only one really serious climb left to go after this. The beach here is a lovely stop, backed by a small lake, a row of whitewashed houses and with a good long stretch of sand where it is possible to find some quiet at any time of year.
The last big climb of the path is pretty hard going, but eventually levels out, and arriving at the top of Southdown Cliff few would argue that the views are not worth it. The rest of the route is laid out before you; first Sharpham Point, then Durl Head, and finally Berry Head and the start of Torbay. The route undulates from here, always attractive but never spectacular, and at St Marys Bay the Brixham Holiday Parks begin.
Just as it feels like the walk has gone from the wonderful to a long, slow drag, the walker finally comes onto Berry Head, a National Nature Reserve. This is a very important place; for migratory birds, which see the headland from far out to sea and make a bee-line for it; for its history, with its Napoleonic forts; for navigators, who are guided by its lighthouse; for bats (a nationally important colony of greater horseshoes call it home); for rock climbers, who see this as one of Devon`s best venues; and for coast path walkers, who make straight for the cafe on the promontory and gorge themselves on cream teas and lemonade.
When you reach Brixham reward yourself with a snack and drink at the Brixham Deli, their Daily Specials are always first class. Their scallops are hand picked by a diver! Every time I stay at Rose Cottage, monthly, I always have lunch at least once at the Brixham Deli.
Linger for a while, have a poke around, look for dolphins and whales, which are often sighted from this high place and then think about getting to Brixham. The path descends through woods and then suddenly comes out near Shoalstone Pool, an open air swimming pool fed by seawater. A gentle, undulating stroll takes you into Brixham via the breakwater – keep your eyes out for the seals that lurk in this area, attracted by fishing boats – and near the marina, the first pub, the Prince William. Though tempting, there are probably better drinking options further round the harbour, where you will probably be seduced by the odour of fresh fish and chips at the end of the day`s walk.
Then take the regular bus from Brixham to Kingswear which stops outside the Kingswear Village Shop.
Ferries
Dartmouth to Kingswear Ferry
Two vehicle/passenger and one passenger ferry link Kingswear with Dartmouth and run throughout the day all year round. The ferry lets you quickly reach the busy town of Dartmouth, Devon by either foot or car, and return to your peaceful holiday cottage for all that is best about self catering holiday accommodation in Dartmouth Devon.
The three ferry services are operated by three different companies, each offers a heavily discounted book of tickets. We strongly recommend that you buy a book of tickets.
Ferry Times
Lower Ferry Times (Weekdays and Saturdays)
Start from Dartmouth, Devon 07.00
Last ferry from Dartmouth, Devon 22.55
Last Ferry from Kingswear 22.45
Sunday – Start from Kingswear
08.00
Higher Ferry Times (Weekdays and Saturdays)
Start from Dartmouth, Devon (06.30 Weekdays and Saturdays)
Start from Dartmouth, Devon (08.00 Sunday)
Last ferry from Dartmouth, Devon Mon – Thurs & Sun -22.45 Fri & Sat – 23.45
Last ferry from Kingswear Mon – Thurs & Sun – 22.50 Fri & Sat – 23.50
Summer Service
Last Sunday in May for 16 weeks, 7 days a week, last ferry –
Dartmouth 23.45, Kingswear 23.50
Bank Holidays – Sunday service
Passenger Ferries (Weekdays including Saturday)
Starting from Dartmouth, Devon 07.00
Last Ferry from Dartmouth, Devon 23.10
Last Ferry from Kingswear, Devon 23.15
Sundays Starting from Dartmouth, Devon 09.00
Last Ferry from Dartmouth, Devon 23.10
Last Ferry from Kingswear, Devon 23.15
Places to visit
Beaches
Start Bay, Devon
Blackpool Sands, Devon
The timeless South Hams, Devon west country heritage coastline curves around the glittering expanse of Start Bay to the dramatic promontory of Start Point, where you can visit the lighthouse and meander spectacular cliff paths and enjoy the coastal views. Seals sometimes laze on the rocks west of Start Point and seabirds of all kinds nest in the craggy cliff crevices. Around the glorious sweep of Start Bay you can laze on the beach at Blackpool Sands and watch the waves lap over the sand, or visit the famous nature reserve at Slapton Ley.
Dartmouth
Britannia Royal Naval College and Dart Estuary from Rose Cottage, Dartmouth
Dartmouth, Devon is situated within a designated area of outstanding natural beauty, approximately 34 miles from Exeter, 25 miles from Plymouth, 13 miles from Totnes and 3 miles from Brixham in Torbay. To the North, the land rises to the granite heights of Dartmoor, Devon. To the East and South of the town, flows the River Dart, which is navigable 8 miles to Totnes, Devon.
The climate is mild, being close to the southernmost point of the county. Grapes flourish in the warm climate and are commercially grown in the area. The town is fiercely proud of its history and traditions and works very hard, as it has down the centuries, to welcome visitors and make them feel at home. This isn`t always easy as the care and conservation of the town has to be reconciled with the needs of tourism, business and industry.
The population of Dartmouth, Devon showed little fluctuation between the 1971/91 census. The 1971 census indicated a population of 5,700: in 1981 it was 5,250 – a decrease of 8%. The census in 1991 showed the population increasing again to 5,650 – an increase of about 8%. Overall, then, between 1971 and 1991 there was a 1% decrease in population, but the most recent figures indicate that, in 1996, the estimated population of Dartmouth was 5,744.
Dartmouth has an attractive, compact shopping centre. During the summer months the Park and Ride initiative (situated at Norton) provides an efficient and effective means of parking for shopping, sightseeing etc. while at the same time reducing town centre congestion.
Dartmouth and Kingswear Castles – Dart Estuary
Woodlands Theme Park, Dartmouth
Lets go! It`s half term and Woodlands multi indoor centres are packed with fun. Outdoor zones are all geared up for a fantastic day out, all for the cost of £6.00 per person.
The variety of play in the massive Empire of the Sea Dragon provides action for all ages with three rides, the best slides, fantastic venture challenges and exciting soft play for little ones. The riskiest ride in the Empire is the Trauma Tower, hold on as it climbs up 45ft but watch out for the big drop which leaves stomachs high in space. For the best views of the five floors of action whirl up on the Dragon Mini Wheel, or for a more gentle thrill the submarine ride is perfect.
Trot over to the Master Blaster where all ages play the zippiest game in the Universe, volcanoes, blasters and cannons keep families in a firing frenzy of fun. Next door toddlers have their own activities in the Big Top Soft Play, juniors enjoy climbing, swinging and sliding in the Acrobats Funderland while the circus train puffs by.
As well as the 100,000 sq.ft. of undercover play a whole lot of the outdoor rides are open. The Sea Dragon Swing Ship is a white knuckle monster 11 metres high for a whoosh of negative G force, then bish bash bosh your way around the Bumper Boat pond. The Big Fun Farm has five massive barns to explore. Amazing new daytime & nightime creatures join favourite animals, there are not only rabbits to cuddle but rascally raccoons and exotic cockatiels to enjoy with creepy Giant Millipedes, Sugar Gliders and glow in the dark Scorpions to marvel at. The Reptile House is home to tiny Bearded Dragons and at the other end of the ‘scale’ Homer, a 12 foot Albino Burmese Python. It’s a Zoo-in-a-Farm! Accelerate the Big U-Drive Tractors past the giant scarecrows; little ones can pedal tiny tractors and fire engines round Windmill Village.
The Falconers are on hand to show you the birds and answer questions but there are no flying displays at the moment. If you haven’t got one of those lucky coloured tickets yet try asking at your local TIC. Half term outings are big at Woodlands; it’s incredible value for all the family.
Riverford Field Kitchen Restaurant, Riverford, Near Totnes
If you like field fresh vegetables, organic food and a different food experience then a visit to Riverford Field Kitchen Restaurant is a must. If I could I would eat there every day! This restaurant is unique, both the food and the staff are great. This concept will change your ideas about vegetables and food.
The Riverford Field Kitchen Restaurant is located in the middle of the farm, the daily menu isn`t published till the morning as it is dependant on what is being picked that morning! Unless you have an allotment you will not know how sweet fresh carrots can be! You will have a choice of six+ very interesting organic vegetable dishes plus one meat dish, several deserts and a great range of fruit drinks and wine.
It is essential to make a reservation as it is a term of their planning permission, included in the price is a farm tour on a tractor trailer.
A co-operative of local farmers supply the Field Kitchen Restaurant and the Riverford Organic Vegetable scheme that delivers boxes of mixed vegetables to your home all over the UK.
Telephone 01803 762 074
Website http://www.dartharbour.org/weather-and-tides/
Email fieldkitchen@riverford.co.uk
Eden Project, Bodelva, Cornwall
Biodome – www.EdenProject.com
The Eden Project – Biodome
When is the best time to come?
Our busiest time is between 10.30am and 2pm. So, the best time to come is usually after 2pm. The latter part of the week seems to be quieter than the first half. School holidays are also busy. During the summer holidays we have late night opening dates – see “Latest visitor information” for details.
Do I need to purchase a ticket in advance?
No – advance tickets are not essential, you can just pay on the day. Our ticketing systems have improved a great deal since we opened when we have some queuing. However advance tickets allow you to use the fast track ticket desks which will speed your progress through ticketing when it is very busy. Advance tickets are available from most Tourist Information Centres in Cornwall and some hotels. They do not guarantee entry as on some very busy days when the site reaches capacity we have to close the gates for health and safety reasons. Shut is shut – we cannot admit anyone when this happens whether they have an advance ticket or not!
What`s it about ?
It`s all about man`s relationship with and dependence upon plants. Much of our food, our clothes, our shelter and our medicines all come from the plant world. Without plants there would be no oxygen for us to breathe no life on earth.
The way we treat plants and work with them is the story of the planet.
Decisions we make now will materially affect the way our children and our children`s children live and thrive (or not) on this fragile planet.
The Eden Project is a showcase for all the questions and many of the answers. But Eden is not a worthy, over – serious guilt ridden place; nor does it preach. It is about education and communication of the major environmental issues of the day always presented in an engaging, involving even humorous way.
What`s in it?
Over 100,000 plants representing 5,000 species from many of the climatic zones of the world. Many of these can grow in the mild conditions of Cornwall, others demand greenhouses and that is where Eden`s two gigantic conservatories come in. The Humid Tropics Biome – the world`s largest greenhouse – is home to the plants of the rainforest – bananas, rubber, cocoa, coffee, teak and mahogany. Whilst the warm Temperate Biome is filled with the plants of the Mediterranean regions of the world – South Africa, California and the Med itself. Outside sunflowers, hemp, tea and a host of other plants from our own region grow.
In addition to the plants themselves art is central to Eden`s interpretation strategy and right from day one there will be many artistic expressions of storytelling across the site.
The public are naturally most interested in the excitement of the two giant conservatories – if we were an aquarium they would be our sharks – but there is much, much more to Eden than these two sensational structures and the use of the word Project in the name reflects the constantly changing nature of the place.
Whose idea was it?
Tim Smit`s and the gang he was working with recovering the famous Lost gardens of Heligan. The more he grew to know of plants the more he wanted to tell the fascinating story of their importance to man but it needed a much broader canvass than Heligan a grander scale and, of course, those giant greenhouses. Along the way Tim gathered many others to help flesh out the vision and make it the reality it is today. But in the beginning one man has to have the idea and it was Tim.
Is it for scientific people or will the general public find it interesting?
Eden is all about making plant based issues interesting to the ordinary person. Maybe 3 million people in this country are already signed up to environmental groups in some way Eden welcomes them but is actually more interested in the 53 million others who are not those who are disinterested or who feel the environment is of no relevance to them or that they are too “small” anyway to effect any real change.
So, Eden is specifically designed to engage the public at large not just the scientists. It will educate but will do so with a light touch and a style, already emerging, which will delight and amuse as well as inform.
Is there anything for kids?
Much and it has already been shown to work. Kids were bowled over by Eden last year and schools are literally queuing up to experience the Eden magic. There are no white-knuckle rides but at every turn there will be something to engage and entertain children of all ages.
Do you allow dogs?
We do not allow dogs onto the main site (except guide dogs) but we do have a limited amount of shaded parking available on a first come first served basis. It`s best to arrive either first thing (9am) or after 2.30pm when things are a little quieter to stand a better chance of getting a space in the shaded area.
Is it accessible for the disabled?
We have a disabled parking area and wheelchairs are available on a first come first served basis – some with a battery pack. There is also a land train (which can carry wheelchairs) which runs between the Visitor Centre and the biomes. Routes suitable for wheelchairs are marked and you will find seats dotted about the site so that you can take a rest if you need to.
Who owns it?
The Eden Charitable Trust who have set up Eden Project Limited to build run and administer the place and ensure the commercial surpluses which will guarantee its future .
Where is it?
Eden is set amongst the china clay country just East of St Austell – the major clay-mining town. It is 30 miles west of Plymouth and 15 west of Bodmin – about 270 west of London. 50 miles further west is Lands End, Cornwall.
Is it all finished?
No indeed we hope it never will be. Like all gardens Eden will evolve over time. No gardens look at their best in March but as all the outdoor planting breaks through later in the spring and into summer Eden will start to look as spectacular outside as it already does inside the two greenhouses.
Are there any animals?
Obviously outside there will be all the natural fauna of a place like Cornwall and many bird species already seem happy to make Eden their new home. In the controlled environment of the biomes there are insects, butterflies and some lizards but there are no plans for any other incursions into zoology that is not what Eden is about.
Salcombe
Salcombe Estuary, Devon
The town lies beside a vast inlet, Salcombe estuary, which provides a natural sheltered harbour for a variety of boats and safe sandy coves perfect for families. The estuary was designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest in 1987 and a Local Nature Reserve in 1992. Warm summers and Britain`s mildest climate makes Salcombe perfect for all seasons.
In and Around Salcombe, Devon
Travel the estuary by ferry, one of the nicest ways to get around. Take the Rivermaid to Kingsbridge and explore this pleasant market town. The East Portlemouth ferry plies across the estuary to the beautiful, sheltered beaches of Smalls Cove, Mill Bay and Sunny Cove. Take a walk along the dramatic cliff path to Gara Rock.
The third ferry takes you to South Sands where a variety of water sports can be enjoyed with North Sands just a short walk away.
Nearby are the high cliffs of Bolt Head. Visit the Overbecks Museum with its exotic coastal garden, rare plant species and spectacular views of the Mewstone and Salcombe Estuary.
Take a step back and look at all our yesterdays. The Maritime and Local History Museum has a fascinating collection illustrating ship building and ship wrecks of days gone by.
Hope Cove & Thurlestone Sands
Hope is Old English meaning a small, enclosed valley. It perfectly sums up this delightful village, which not only nestles within green valley walls, but slopes down to two attractive sheltered beaches. The Cove was originally a small fishing and crabbing village, however, whilst commercial fishing is no longer carried out, the area remains remarkably unchanged, and fishing from the rocks, or a dinghy, continues to be enjoyed by many.
`Commercialisation` consists of one small gift/beach shop and a village Post Office & Stores. That said, there is much to see and enjoy. Inner Hope is a piece of Devon miraculously preserved from a hundred years ago, a square of thatched cottages unspoiled by modern development. Other picturesque thatched cottages nestle quite happily by more modern architecture. Perched high above the beaches, by the road that links Inner Hope and Outer Hope, tiny St. Clement`s Church has a commanding view of the cove. Scarcely much larger than a modern living room it has an atmosphere all of its own. It is all too easy to imagine the strong, tanned faces of the fishermen of long ago praying for their comrades lost to the depths of the sea.
The beaches have a Seaside Award for water quality and cleanliness. They are sandy and safe. There are rock pools to enjoy and crabs to catch and for the more adventurous, sailing, windsurfing and diving. The water is unusually clear, attracting divers who explore not only the sea but also over 30 shipwrecks in the area. Dolphins and seals can be seen swimming and diving in the cove from time to time. Occasionally bathers have been lucky enough to go swimming with the dolphins.
The village straddles the stunning South Devon Coastal Path and a short walk along the safe cliff top path towards Thurlestone Sands provides spectacular views of Bigbury Bay, Burgh Island, Thurlestone Rock and further along the coast to Cornwall. On a clear day over 30 miles of Cornish coast can be seen. Indeed, the views are so great that in May 1588 thousands of people gathered in and around Hope Cove and upon the great majestic cliffs of Bolt Tail to watch he fleet of 140 Spanish galleons – the Armada – proceed up the Channel. One of the galleons, the San Pedro, went aground on the Shippen – the large rocky headland that divides Hope`s two beaches.
Whilst Hope Cove remains peaceful and unspoiled there is a good range of places to eat. There are two pubs with dining facilities, one with a separate restaurant. Between the pubs lies a further restaurant, which also provides lunches, cream teas and evening meals during peak periods. Dotted about the village there are more than half a dozen Hotels, which are happy to cater for non-residents.
A walk along the cliff top path, or a short drive through unspoiled countryside, will bring you to Thurlestone Sands and slightly inland, the village of Thurlestone itself. So named after the large sea rock with a hole through it famously painted by Turner. Here too, is a wide sandy beach backed by a nature reserve where rate and exciting birds have been spotted. The waters here are particularly well suited to surfing, windsurfing or canoeing. During the summer months a range of water sports equipment can be hired on the beach. Canoe round to one of the small sandy beaches – you will probably have it all to yourself. If that is a little too active then enjoy a snack or a meal at one of the Hotels with fine views over the bay and watch the world, the water and the yachts go by.
A little further along the coast lies Thurlestone Golf club contained in about 50 spectacular acres and set on the cliff top with beautiful sea views. There are tennis courts nearly. Thurlestone village has a large Hotel and forming part of the hotel is the Village Inn whose timbers are said to have come from the San Pedro. The Hotel has its own tennis courts, putting green, swimming pools, gym and rackets courts that are normally open to the public.
Thurlestone Church dates back to the 13th Century and it was from a fire pan placed on the turret of its tower that the first beacon fire was lit on the Spanish Armada being sighted.
To come to this part of the South Hams is to step back in time. Whilst the roads may be a little busy during the peak holiday periods, once school holidays have ended the pace becomes tranquil and relaxed. In the autumn months the weather can be very mild and the seas remain warm with swimming sometimes continuing into October. Frequently there are, during those mellow months, the most spectacular sunsets.
Wonderful Places
Whenever you visit the South Hams, a warm welcome awaits you. From Santa Specials to Summer Festivals, from Teddy Bears Picnics to Trust Houses and Gardens, we know of no other area in the country which can offer such a varied, all-season destination. Facilities exist for disabled visitors and there is wheelchair access to National Trust Coastal Walks at Snapes Point and Bolberry.
Activities
Golf: There are three courses within easy reach of Salcombe. The Thurlestone Hotel`s nine hole course, the Dartmouth Golf and Country Club and the Bigbury Golf Club.
Riding: Choose a morning out from a local stables, or perhaps try some pony trekking on Dartmoor.
Boating: Sailing and motor boats are available for hire with or without tuition. Salcombe Yacht Club arranges regular evening and weekend racing, including handicap and cruiser classes. The Island Cruising Club arranges regular residential and non-residential courses. Sailing or Powerboat training is available with RYA recognised instructors.
Scuba Diving: Access to a wealth of wrecks and scenic diving with legendary visibility. Charter boats available. Diver training with internationally recognised instructors is available locally.
Fishing: Try mackerel or sea fishing trips from Salcombe. Beach fishing is popular within the Estuary and on exposed beaches subject to local regulations. There are freshwater fisheries too.
Canoeing: Explore the Salcombe and Avon Estuaries by canoe. Your silent approach will be rewarded by wonderful wildlife in quiet creeks.
Surfing: The beaches from Hope Cove to Bigbury on Sea and North Sands at Salcombe offer excellent surf in varying weather conditions – enjoyed by both surfers and windsurfers.
Swimming: Enjoy Salcombe`s own heated outdoor swimming pool, try a swim, Jacuzzi or sauna at a local hotel. There is now a full size indoor pool at Kingsbridge.
Tennis: Salcombe Tennis Club in Bonaventure Road has courts for hire on a daily basis. Details available from the Salcombe Information Centre: Tel 01548 843927.
Painting: You will find subjects wherever you look. Set up your easel or settle a sketch pad on your knee and make the most of the clear light and wonderful surroundings. Visit the Salcombe Art Club`s summer exhibition in The Loft Studio at Victoria Quay.
Walking: Walks along the Coastal Path, through picturesque villages and on Dartmoor are all easily accessible from Salcombe. The South West Coastal Path passes through Salcombe and you can walk from Salcombe to Hope Cove or Gara Rock. More information, walking leaflets, guides and maps are available from the local bookshops and the TIC.
Birds and Animals: Slapton Ley with its Field Centre is a very special environment. In Spring and Autumn the sand and mud flats of both the Salcombe and Avon Estuaries are covered with birds. It is no accident that the Salcombe Estuary is a site of Special Scientific Interest.
Dartmoor
Dartmoor, Devon was designated one of the National Parks of England and Wales in 1951. It is a beautiful moorland landscape with wooded valleys and wind swept Tors. 368 square miles (953 sq. km.) in area, with about 33,000 people living in it, and where about 10 million visits are made each year. All the land is owned by someone and the public is able to roam freely on unenclosed, open moorland on both foot and horseback. There are also about 600 miles (966 km) of public rights of way. Dartmoor is a rich habitat for wildlife and has a wealth of archaeological remains.
Dartmoor – Guided Walk The Guided Walks and Events programme is designed to help you to further your understanding and enjoyment of Dartmoor. The walks are led by our team of knowledgeable guides, who are all Dartmoor enthusiasts. Walks vary in length and will always be taken at the speed of the slowest walker, so don`t be put off! However, do be aware of your own capabilities. Everyone walking with the guides must do so at their own risk. If you have any doubts, talk to them before you set off and they will be pleased to advise you. Final walking routes will be decided by the guide, taking into account the weather and ability of the group. Walks can be browsed as a list for each month or by selecting a start point on the clickable map.
Guided walks telephone number 01822 890414
Britain’s most beautiful places
Wistman`s Wood, Dartmoor
“Tucked away on a hillside on Dartmoor, from a distance this looks like an uninteresting smudge of green,” says the travel publisher Hilary Bradt of Wistman`s Wood. “It`s only when you are on the threshold of the wood that you can see the magic: every twisted bough of these stunted oaks is covered in moss, lichens and ferns, and every boulder is draped in green like velvet-upholstered sofas.”
Torquay
Torquay Marina, Devon
Torquay for that special continental flair with a real Riviera café culture, glitzy marina, top attractions, lively nightlife and specialist shopping. Torquay`s waterfront is the focus of life in the town. Here you`ll find the palm-lined promenade, seafront gardens, a lively harbour and an international marina. Yet within minutes of the town centre there are beautiful beaches easily accessible by foot, road or water. There is an abundance of pavement cafes, pubs, restaurants and nightlife, good quality shops, holiday homes and a host of attractions to suit every interest.
Paignton for an all round family friendly resort with miles of beautiful safe sandy beaches and world class attractions.
Brixham for maritime character with its busy fishing port, buzzing quayside shops and cafes and the remote beauty of the Berry Head cliff tops.
Add them together and you have the English Riviera – the perfect year-round holiday choice. Much of the west country, including Plymouth, Exeter, Dartmouth and Dartmoor, is well within reach making us an ideal touring base from which to explore the region.
The Lost Gardens of Heligan
The Lost Gardens of Heligan is the largest garden restoration in Europe, and has now become one of the fastest growing visitor attractions in the West Country.
The gardens are situated in close proximity to the picturesque fishing village of Mevagissey, and are regarded as a monument to three generations of the Tremayne family. Covering 57 acres and a further 100 acres of ornamental woodland, there is an impressive range of plant breeds and features, including, an Italian garden, a crystal grotto, summerhouses and the Flora Green Lawn surrounded by giant rhododendrons.
Originally dating back to 1780, the gardens fell `asleep` throughout the two World Wars when little time was allowed for the pleasures of gardening. In 1991, a restoration team ploughed through the mountains of bramble and creeping ivy to discover the forgotten orchid houses, vineries, peach houses and even a pineapple pit. The range of horticultural buildings also discovered, allowed the story of the 19th Century gardening to be exposed.
The gardens have now been remodelled in a Victorian tradition with special emphasis on the walled kitchen garden, which has now become the only working 19th Century garden in Britain, producing peaches, melons and even pineapples.
A visit to Heligan could take 2 hours or more, and still offer new and exciting features and plants each time it is visited. There is also the chance for visitors to purchase some of the plants seen within the gardens at the plant sales area, to act as a souvenir of your visit.
Telephone enquiries 01726 845100
Britain’s most beautiful places
Jurassic Coast, Dorset
Nearly a decade ago, UNESCO awarded the Jurassic Coast, which extends from east Devon to Dorset, world heritage status. Its dramatic cliffs and secluded coves and beaches offer clues as to why. As David Else, author of the Lonely Planet Guide to Great Britain, says: “There`s 185 million years of Earth`s history in just 95 miles here, an exhilarating 3D geology lesson with fossils towering rock stacks and sea-carved arches – most notably the huge natural limestone arch at Durdle Door.” The latter is one of the coast`s most photographed landmarks: at certain times of the year, it is possible to see the sun rising through it.
Plymouth
Plymouth is a large city, on estuary of Plym and Tamar, with a real history of naval involvement.
The dockyards support Royal Naval vessels and there`s always a ship in town!.
Badly bombed in WWII, the city has a modern shopping centre, yet now the old buildings near the docks are being restored.
A University city with theatre and cinemas as well as lots to do and see.
Visit the shops at the Barbican, the Pilgrim Fathers left here for the New World in the Mayflower, and the famous statue of Sir Francis Drake on Plymouth Hoe, overlooks Plymouth Sound and Drakes Island.
Seamton`s Tower shares the site, its base is old Eddystone Lighthouse which was rebuilt in 1881.
There are bridge and ferry crossings into Cornwall over the Tamar, Brunel railway bridge, the Royal Albert Bridge, completed 1859, and a modern road bridge.
Nearby towns are commuter land. Main line station and airport.
Emergency – 999 – Police, Ambulance, Fire, Coastguard
We hope that you will not need the following information, but just in case you do its all here for you –
Doctor
Dartmouth Medical Practice 35 Victoria Road Tel. 01803 832212
Dartmouth Stroke Support Group – Pat Evans Tel. 01803 833384
Dentist
Simon Lees 1 Market Street, Dartmouth Tel. 01803 833800
Chemists
Boots The Chemist, 5/6 The Quay, Dartmouth Tel. 01803 832742
Lloyds Pharmacy, 31 Victoria Road, Dartmouth Tel. 01803 832474