Join me and the dogs as we head to Devon to sniff out just how dog friendly Dartmouth really is.
Ever since we visited Salcombe in the Autumn of 2022, I have been eager to revisit this exquisite part of Devon.
With sweeping golden beaches, stunning countryside, and oodles of dog-friendly places to boot, it has to be my favourite part of the Devonshire coastline.
So when we were invited by Midships to come and stay at their newly refurbished holiday home, tails were wagging all around!
Midships Holiday Home – A Dog-Friendly Seaside Sensation
Midships is a seaside sensation!
Everywhere you look is a visual ode to the ocean. With wall-hung anchor-shaped timepieces, painted ores, and wooden ducks posing as pirates! This place oozes nautical glamour, and I love it!
Situated on a quiet road, just a ten minute stroll from the town centre, Midships enjoys an elevated position away from the bustling streets of Dartmouth.
As is the case with most holiday rentals in Dartmouth, parking is limited. And so when I discovered Midships issue their guests with a parking permit I was elated.
The parking space is a short walk away, so after we had unloaded our cargo, I shimmied the Dottymobile into her resting place before making our way back up the hill to our cosy quarters.
A Home from Home
Decked out in sophisticated blue hues, luxury fabrics, and quality furnishings, this classy holiday home embraces you with a warm and homely vibe the minute you walk through the door.
Tastefully renovated with a sympathetic nod to its Victorian heritage, this terraced townhouse exudes style and charm.
Downstairs is the most beautiful sitting room. With high ceilings, an elegant Victorian fireplace, and comfy leather sofas, this is the ultimate place to chill out. Tune into your favourite Netflix series, or take advantage of the excellent Wi-Fi, and with the enormous TV, you will feel like you’re in your own private cinema!
Next to the lounge is a separate dining room, that boasts a table big enough to hold a banquet! And with a well-stocked kitchen, comprising all the mod cons, you will have no problem cooking up your feast!
That is if you can tear yourself away from the plethora of eateries on offer in Dartmouth. (I’ll tempt you with some suggestions later!)
A warm welcome
On arrival, it didn’t take my two seasoned travellers long to sniff out the doggy delicacies that awaited them, and we were all totally bowled over by our welcome goodies.
In addition to a delectable selection of treats for hounds and human, Winnie and Gertie each received a cute little ‘Midships Crew’ bandana. And Nicola, (the proprietor of Midships) also gifted us a stunning hand-painted beach slate. [Such a meaningful keepsake that will forever evoke cherished memories of our stay in Dartmouth.]
Upstairs the coastal chicness continues. The master bedroom and ensuite shower room are just out of this world! Decked out in nautical decor and a rich colour scheme, it epitomises seaside sophistication. The bed is so big, [and super comfy] you could sleep with your worst enemy and not even know they’re there!
Also on the first floor is a twin bedroom, a bunk room, and a further bathroom, which has a lovely powerful shower over the bath.
To the rear is an enclosed tiled courtyard garden, and to the front of the property is an attractive decked area complete with patio furniture.
I can just imagine sitting here in the summer months, watching the world go by and supping on a glass of chilled Rosé!
Whilst dogs are not allowed to venture upstairs, they are more than welcome to snuggle up with you on the sofas, providing you cover the furniture.
Come prepared with dog beds and throws, as these are not supplied.
Is Dartmouth Dog Friendly?
Located in the upmarket South Hams district of Devon, Dartmouth is a dog-friendly delight. Enjoying a privileged position on the scenic river Dart estuary, it’s easy to see how this historic town pulls in the punters. Its perfect blend of natural beauty, maritime heritage, and fascinating architecture makes for a memorable day out.
In the daytime, the narrow ancient streets of Dartmouth are buzzing with day-trippers, all here to explore the vibrant range of shops, eateries, and art galleries. And by dusk, the town takes on a whole new vibe as the streets come alive with maritime students enjoying an evening tipple.
With many big brand names, such as Henry Lloyd, Jack Wills, and Whistlefish there’s plenty to keep the diehard shopper entertained. And your dog is more than welcome to share in a spot of retail therapy, as the majority of shops welcome pups!
Dog Friendly Places to Eat in Dartmouth
When it comes to eating out in Dartmouth you are literally spoilt for choice.
Whether you’re after a quick snack or a leisurely lunch you’ll enjoy watching the myriad of colourful boats bobbing about in the harbour as you tuck into your culinary cuisine.
The Royal Castle proved a firm favourite. Situated on the quay, with enviable views overlooking the water, this 17th century watering hole is not to be missed. Dogs are welcome to dine with you in the bar, and as well as an extensive menu for humans, they have a doggy bar consisting of ‘Jack Spaniels’ and treats! [The girls were suitably impressed!]
On the opposite side of the quay is Embankment Bistro. This quirky-looking venue is housed in an old railway station and is the perfect place to grab a spot of brekkie.
Offering more than just the standard cooked breakfast or bacon butty, the dogs and I sat and enjoyed a tasty cheese and tomato croissant whilst watching the world go from the platform-style seating area!
Breakfast is my favourite meal of the day, so when I go away with the dogs, I love sniffing out the local cafes.
Cafe Alf Resco is only open until 2pm each day, and so if you want to sample their scrummy fare make sure you get in early!
Not only do they serve a mean breakfast bap, but my order came with two servings of doggy sausages! [Which were devoured in less than sixty seconds!]
Judging by the length of the queue that was forming for these meaty morsels, these sausages are clearly legendary among the local canine community!
Dog Friendly Beaches Near Dartmouth
Whilst Sugary Cove and Castle Cove are within walking distance of the town centre, both are tiny bays that disappear at high tide. So with sandy shores firmly in our sights [and two eager terriers by my side], we headed further afield.
Slapton Sands
Just a few miles along the road from Dartmouth is Slapton Sands. This three mile stretch of golden shingle is dog-friendly all year round and is the perfect spot to paddle those paws.
Providing panoramic views of the ocean and the surrounding countryside, Slapton Sands is the place to come if you want to relax and soak up the peace and tranquillity of this stunning coastline.
The South West Coast path passes through Slapton Sands where you’ll find a trendy beach shack cafe serving a fine selection of Salcombe Dairy ice creams, along with other more substantial snacks.
Blackpool Sands
Just beyond Stoke Fleming village lies Blackpool Sands. Despite being far from Blackpool and featuring pebbles rather than sand, one might understandably wonder about its name. Nevertheless, this privately owned beach, honored with a Blue Flag award, is undeniably picturesque and a destination well deserving of a visit.
Whilst dogs are permitted on this beach during the Winter months, there is a seasonal ban in place from April – September.
Backed by a lush pine forest, the contrast of the fine white pebbles lapped by crystal clear waters gives this crescent-shaped bay an appeal all of its own.
And with a cafe and restaurant offering a tasty post-walk pit stop, it’s the ideal spot to while away a few hours.
Goodrington Sands
If you fancy hopping on the ferry and pootling across to Paignton, Goodrington Sands offers a total contrast to the tranquil shingle shores nearer Dartmouth. With its striking red sand beach framed by colourful beach huts, Paington is the epitome of a traditional British seaside town.
The ferry crossing isn’t the cheapest, but it’s one of those memorable touristy things that you have to do ‘when in Rome.’ And I felt marginally better about the extortionate price when the dogs were given a complimentary dog biscuit each whilst on board!
As we were both on holiday in Dartmouth, we seized the chance to catch up with our four-legged pal and Instagram sensation, Daphne the Wonder Sossige! The three dogs had a delightful time frolicking in the sand and tormenting the local seagulls, while we humans relished capturing pictures of the cloud reflections in the shallow waters.
You can also chug to Paignton on the Dartmouth Steam Railway which is dog-friendly. Unfortunately, the climatic conditions weren’t best suited to enjoy this scenic route, but we’ve added it to our wanderlust for another time!
Bigbury on Sea
On our final day, determined not to be perturbed by the incessant rain, we donned our waterproofs and I took the girls for a blast on our favourite beach at Bigbury on Sea.
Bigbury is about a forty minute drive from Dartmouth, and whilst not exactly on the doorstep, it is worth every mile (even in the pouring rain)! Famed for its tidal causeway, low tide reveals a vast expanse of golden sand which allows you to walk across to The Pilgrim Inn and Burgh Island.
When we arrived there was just a slither of sand, but as the tides parted, the beach transformed into a bustling hive of activity. The sea became a playground for surfers skilfully riding the crest of the waves, while determined dog walkers displayed their unwavering ‘best of British’ spirit, undeterred by the less-than-ideal weather conditions!
For those less keen on exercise, you can also hop on the sea tractor! A novel and fun way to ride the waves or skim across the sand!
After a few rounds of ‘bitey face’ on the beach, and chasing around with lots of new canine pals, we set off on our journey home feeling somewhat damp, but refreshed! There’s nothing quite like a blustery beach walk for blowing away those cobwebs!
A Fond Farewell
Yet again our dog-friendly adventure had whizzed by all too quickly, and it was time to head back to our beloved Wiltshire.
Midships is owned by Nicola and Warren who were inspired to purchase the property earlier this year after falling in love with the local area.
If you fancy treating your pup to a dog friendly getaway in Dartmouth, check out Midships Holiday Home Dotty4Paws listing or visit their Facebook page.
If you’re sniffing out Dartmouth, why not check out the nearby town of Salcombe too?
You can read all about our stay and our dog-friendly recommendations in our blog How Dog Friendly is Salcombe? We Spent the Weekend Sniffing it Out.
For lots more photos and videos of our holiday in Dartmouth check out the story highlights on our Instagram page.
Woofs and Wags
Kate, Gertie and Winnie
xox
*We were offered a complimentary stay in return for an honest review.
