About Salcombe
Situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Salcombe has been a holiday hot-spot for generations, proving a paradise for all the ages. Whether you’re looking to ride wild waters, hike through enchanting landscapes or simply lounge on golden sands, Salcombe will not disappoint.
Lining the beach is a vibrant harbour-side town brimming with treats from independent shops, restaurants and bars. This is where tourists and locals come together to create the cheerful atmosphere that Salcombe is famous for: after all, if your only concern is which food to try next or which beach to explore, you’ve got a reason to be cheerful. If you’re planning a trip to the area, take a look at our selection of things to do.
Discover your perfect seaside escape by browsing our collection of Salcombe holiday cottages, and find your idyllic home base to unwind and explore this coastal gem.
Travel
How to get to Salcombe You can get to Salcombe by plane, train and automobile. For 70 years, from 1893 to 1963, there was a train that went from Totnes to Kingsbridge but the growth in the popularity of the motorcar meant it was eventually shut down. Amazingly, there was even a plan to open a line from Kingsbridge to Salcombe! The terminal was to be at Snapes Point with a ferry taking people from the peninsular of land over to the main town! We wonder how different Salcombe would be if that railway had been implemented... Salcombe remains a hotbed of style, sophistication and relaxed glamour which is reflected throughout the town with its cool shops and some of the most sought after luxury Salcombe holiday cottages on the South coast. Here at Finest Stays we aim to offer the complete holiday experience, divulging useful tips on everything from water sports to the best places to dine out. So, after much list making and discussion about how we can take the strain out of your holiday, (after all the little things count too!) we decided to quickly run through your travel options to your stay. We all tend to grab the keys and jump in the car, it’s easy and automatic. But, have you ever considered the alternatives? Driving to Salcombe South Devon is well connected to The Midlands, the North, Wales and London with both the A30 and the M5 bringing you to Exeter and onto the A38, this is the main route between Exeter and Plymouth. Continue along the A38 and follow signs for Totnes, then onto Kingsbridge and Salcombe. Or continue along the A38 until you reach the slip road signposted Modbury and join the A379 for Kingsbridge and follow signs for Salcombe. Either route from London will take around 4.5 hours and from Bristol, around 2 hours. On arriving in Salcombe, park the car and enjoy life on Salcombe time, especially during the summer months. Stroll to the beaches; It's about a 20 minute walk along Cliff Road to North Sands and around 10 minutes further to South Sands where you can pick up a ferry back into town. A regular ferry runs from Whitestrand, it's just a short hop across the water to the beautiful beaches at East Portlemouth (facing Salcombe). Both ferries are dog friendly and a fun way of seeing the town at it's best... from the water. By Rail There are regular trains from London Paddington and London Waterloo to Totnes train station with First Great Western. Your journey will take just over three hours from London Paddington and a little longer from Waterloo. Either way, there is a 30-40 minute taxi ride from Totnes train station to Salcombe. Taxi Numbers Salcombe Even at train stations, it can be hard to find a cab, so book your pick‑ups ahead. We recommend using these Salcombe taxi’s where you should expect to pay around £40 one way into Salcombe from Totnes station. Ultimate List of Salcombe Taxi Numbers Flying to Salcombe Your best airport to fly into is Exeter. Flights come in from Edinburgh, Guernsey, Dublin, Newcastle, Glasgow, Belfast City, Jersey, Isles of Scilly and various European cities. FAQ's We're often asked whether guests will need a car in Salcombe, how easy is it to park, can you walk to restaurants for dinner? So here are some answers to those most frequently asked questions: Should I take the train or drive? This depends on whether you’re planning on arriving in Salcombe and just staying in the town. But if you’re planning on heading further afield, perhaps to explore the coastline and beaches around Dartmouth, Thurlestone Bigbury or Hope Cove then your best option is to take the car. Do I need my car to explore Salcombe? No is the easy answer. If you’re looking for beaches in Salcombe, they’re easily accessible on foot or by passenger ferry. For dining there are some good pubs, hotel restaurants, cafes and takeaways… you can of course always hire a private chef. Everything you need is in the town. Is there plenty of parking in Salcombe? There is parking in the town but it can get very busy during peak holiday times and on a lovely sunny day. Many of our luxury holiday homes have private parking and some have dedicated parking. Salcombe streets are narrow and usually very busy with pedestrians so it’s best not to try and drive through the town unless you have to. Where to stay in Salcombe?
Shops
List of all the Salcombe Shops While Salcombe is well-known for its outstanding natural beauty, a simple stroll through the famous Fore Street will show you the contribution that Salcombe’s community has had in making the town what it is today. Scattered with a selection of independent outlets offering the finest in fashion, food, homeware and seaside essentials, this is the perfect place to indulge in some serious retail therapy while you’re away. Saunter through the narrow side streets of Salcombe to discover hidden gems and local favourites; from cosy book shops and quaint coffeehouses to jewellery stores and beach-wear boutiques. But don’t forget to check out the jewels in the crown of Salcombe’s shops: after all, this is where brands such as Jack Wills, Crew Clothing and Quba Sails were initially founded – proof that Fore Street has long been a place for young, bold entrepreneurs to bring their creations to life and put Salcombe on the map. After ambling down Fore Street ticking off shops, why not spend an afternoon enjoying the artisanal side of Salcombe? Island Street is brimming with talent and offers a diverse range of art galleries, boat-building yards and food stalls serving the finest in local produce – not to mention live crab and lobster if you’re feeling up to it! Salcombe is a secret haven for shopaholics, providing a perfect mix between high street names and independent designers.If you really do shop ’til you drop, you’ll only have a short walk to the beach or a local pub for refreshing drinks and relaxation. Starting at the top of Fore Street, here is a rundown of the various shops in Salcombe as we work our way down the hill.(This list excludes food outlets and boat shops.) Shopping in Salcombe Quba Sails Stashed full of their stylish sail jackets and customisable bags as well as their Men’s X sportswear series. Explosures This photography shop (you’ll find some fab greetings cards!) offers family portraits, location/beach based shoots with no charge to take photos and no obligation to buy. Explosures allows you to capture those special moments. Love from Two boutiques offering casual, chic seasonal women’s wear, shoes and accessories. Salcombe Clothing Company Smart casual menswear. Stocking mainly Gant clothing, they even offer a few Gant items for ladies and children in their range. Mountain Warehouse New to Salcombe (where Lloyds bank used to be).This store sells all the kit needed for the outdoor lifestyle. Musto Find technical outdoor jackets and warm weather gear.You’ll also find nautical clothing for men and women. Suzy Watson Design Beautifully crafted homeware and interior design goodies. Boots The family favourite chemists.Stocking everything from medicine to make up. Aubin & Wills High-quality menswear with a coastal feel. Find a range of clothing for all seasons here. Henri Lloyd Technical sailing jackets and stylish nautical fashion. Amelia’s Attic Cheska from Made in Chelsea’s Mum’s shop!This store is Girly girl heaven! Deck Out Find fabulous ladies clothing, gifts and accessories. White Stuff Casual clothing brand started in The Alps and consistently maintained in Salcombe. Crew Clothing A fabulous British brand inspired by the coast. Joules 1 Fully stocked children’s clothing ranging from 0 – 12yrs.They offer a great selection of babywear. In-store order service available. Joules 2 Diagonally opposite you will find their equally popular, colourful adults range. Rowbury A gallery full of quirky local prints and paintings. Aloft Bright and breezy men and womenswear with a dash of quirky lifestyle gifts. Shopping in Salcombe: Russell Court Mo Logan Antiques, interiors and art. The Salcombe Bookshop Stocking the latest romantic tales and crime thrillers perfect for your holiday reading. Also stocking local history, guidebooks and maps.There is also a second-hand section as well! With Nothing Underneath Stocking sea-worthy shirts, sunset sweatshirts and the perfect womenswear for all seasons. Shopping in Salcombe: Carrying on along Fore Street Helly Hansen Technical sailing attire for men and women Bonningtons Newsagents. Fat Face Another shopping in Salcombe staple – a clothing brand created from a love of both sea and snow. Chattels A go-to for exquisite homeware and gifts. Cranch’s Sweetshop The legendary Salcombe sweet shop.Fill your white and pink striped paper bags to the brim for a sugar rush, Rudds Classy wellington boots. Coleman’s Butcher Our favourite local butcher. Matt is always on hand to offer advice on how to cook their locally sourced meats. He also delights in making some ready to go bbq goodies you don’t want to miss. Drang Gallery Mega art gallery – expect Damien Hirst! Bowers Wines Salcombe’s only off-license stocked to the brim with all the gin and wine you can drink. Spotted Independent local boutique offering ladies and men’s fashion. Lovingly curated pieces to suit every budget and style. The Tonic Gallery Run by the Artist Greg Ramsden of the South West Academy of Art.The gallery represents predominantly marine-based works from acclaimed artists both near and far and specialises in landscape paintings, sculpture and ceramics. Moshulu Shoe shop under the arch – find casual sandals, slippers and shoes. Shopping in Salcombe: Along Island Street Salcombe Antiques Discover stunning antique investment jewellery. Repairs are also possible. Paperbird Island Fun activities and products including face painting, art activities, greetings cards, organic t-shirts and bags.Booking recommended. Gin Factory Locally roasted coffee, craft beer and wine, gin cocktails, taster sessions, Salcombe gin merchandise and gin school. Gallery Five Art for sale. Supporting local artists and craftsman stocking 80% Devon-based artists. Salcombe DIY Does what it says on the tin! Plus beach kit and that much needed portable BBQ. Salcombe Embroiders For all your embroidery needs. Salcombe Sea School Paddleboard hire and sales, wakeboards, various towables, flip flops. Will Bees Bespoke Bags, purses, clutches and accessories handmade in Salcombe, can also be personalised while you wait. Salcombe Boat Store Chandlers and all things boat-related including wetsuits. Jam industries Cool and casual knitwear, t-shirts and sweats for beach days and evenings.Bridging the gap between city and surf for both him and her. Co-op Small but well-stocked supermarket. Reddish Marine Inboard and outboard sales and services. . Retail therapy in Salcombe When it comes to shopping in Salcombe, there truly is something for everyone. If you’ve come to Salcombe with your children, they’ll make a beeline for Cranch's , the famous traditional Salcombe sweet shop with the distinctive white and pink striped paper bags just waiting to be filled to the brim. Take a dog-leg turn from Fore Street around the Fortescue Inn to find Victoria Quay; a quaint row of chocolate box houses overlooking the sea. Here is your classic crab-catching spot – it takes considerable skill and patience to land a crab from these walls! If you’re looking to get clued up on crab-catching before you arrive, check out our blog for the top 5 mistakes to avoid. Looking for a quick snack as you shop in Salcombe? You’re in luck: Salcombe Dairy Ice-cream produces their famous ice-cream on Island Street; a delicious must-try whilst in the area. (Their top flavour is most definitely honeycomb!) For those staying in self-catered Salcombe holiday homes, there are plenty of local food shops to create your picnics and evening meals. These shops are mainly independent traders who we love to support as they are run by local families.
Maps
Salcombe Maps Salcombe is located in the South Hams which is the most southerly part of south Devon. It starts in the lower quarter of Dartmoor National Park and spreads to the west towards Plymouth, around the coast, and to the east encapsulating Dartmouth and Totnes. Did you know? The name South Hams comes from the old English word “hamme”, meaning an enclosed or sheltered space. This refers to the climate of the area, which is one of the mildest in Britain thanks to its southerly location and protection by Dartmoor’s battered granite hilltops. Salcombe is well known for having golden sandy beaches where you can enjoy a whole host of activities. The harbour is tidal so these beaches get washed by the sea each day as the tide comes in and goes out – thank you nature! Here is an aerial overview of the most popular beaches in Salcombe. Salcombe town is on one side of the estuary. It starts at water level and climbs up the steep hillside. Fore street runs parallel to the water’s edge and is the main artery of running through Salcombe. It gets pretty busy in the summertime with cars and hoards of people/dogs squeezing through the narrow street! Here are some of the main landmarks around town. You can also get a more detailed map from the Salcombe Information Centre. Holiday Homes in Salcombe Our Salcombe holiday lets are all located in wonderful positions in town and each have phenomenal views over the estuary. Take a look at the map below to get an overview, and then visit our luxury holiday homes accommodation page for more information.
Facts
Salcombe Facts 1. There used to be a train line from Totnes to Kingsbridge and there were even plans to build an extension to Salcombe! The terminal was to be at Snapes Point with a ferry taking passengers across the estuary to the town. 2. Today the population in Salcombe is 1800 in winter and 19,000 in summer. How does everyone squeeze in?! 3. Salcombe has seahorse nurseries in the rare eelgrass beds. 4. We are visited by dolphins, seals and even basking sharks! One dolphin called Danny visits us from Dartmouth and has his own Facebook page! 5. During the English civil war, the town sided with the Royalists and held out against the Roundheads. The ruins of Fort Charles remain towards the south of the town near North Sands. 6. In 1764, the first holiday home, The Moult, was built in Salcombe. 7. Salcombe became a ship registry port in 1864 but still came under Dartmouth for customs. A customs house was later built at Salcombe which still exists today as a fabulous holiday home. 8. Between the two world wars, Salcombe developed as a holiday resort, with Salcombe Sailing Club being founded in 1922 (it was only until 1948 when women were allowed to join!) 9. During the Second World War a radar station was set up on Bolt Head and Salcombe became an Advance Amphibious Base for the United States Navy in September 1943. 10. Salcombe Dairy Ice-cream is on the menu at the Dorchester Hotel in London as well as flying as far as New Zealand and Singapore on both countries national airlines. Ice cream in Salcombe really is that delicious! 11. 66 ships and many auxiliary vessels sailed from Salcombe on 4 June 1944 as part of “Force U” which landed on Utah Beach, Normandy. Afterwards, Shadycombe Creek and Mill Bay were used to repair the damaged landing craft. 12. A lifeboat station was established by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution in 1869. In 1916 the Salcombe lifeboat, an open rowboat “The William and Emma”, was capsized crossing The Bar whilst navigating turbulent seas resulting in 13 of the 15 crew’s lives being lost. 13. Today the Salcombe RNLI have a Tamar-class all-weather boat and an Atlantic 75 inshore boat. 14. A sea covered sand spit – opposite Sharp Tor – that restricts entrance to the estuary has caused the wreck of many unfortunate vessels during bad weather. 15. The Bar is believed to have been the inspiration that led the poet Tennyson to write his famous poem – ‘Crossing the Bar’, following a rough passage over the Bar in the yacht Sunbeam, whilst staying with the historian J. A. Froude. 16. Salcombe was the home port for a fleet of fast yacht-like clipper schooners. The fleet’s pace enabled them to get the first of the season’s fruits, such as oranges from the Azores and Pineapples from the West Indies, to the markets ahead of the competition.
Estuary
Salcombe Estuary Strictly speaking, Salcombe estuary isn’t technically an estuary but a Ria; a tidal inlet with no major fresh water source flowing through it. It was formed as river-cut valleys were flooded by post-glacial rising sea levels. Such flooded river valleys are known as ‘rias’, or in this instance, a ‘dendritic ria’ as each creek is itself a ria! At the mouth of the estuary lies Salcombe – famous as a sailing destination and a characteristic town with stone quaysides and brightly painted buildings. There are many creeks and valleys to explore around the Estuary leading to picturesque villages with thatched houses and country pubs serving real ale, Scrumpy and good food. Southpool is one such village that regularly wins prizes for best-kept village. At low tide there are stepping stones from one side of the creek to another – a fun treat for kids – and the gateway to the pub for grown-ups! (See The Millbrook in Salcombe restaurants section). The larger town of Kingsbridge lies at the head of the Salcombe estuary – in the summer the Rivermaid Ferry makes trips between Salcombe and Kingsbridge (when the tides are right). The climate in Salcombe is almost Mediterranean bringing balmy summers and mild winters to the area. Many species of plant life flourish here that are rarely found in other parts of the UK, and birds such as egrets, cormorants and herons flock here in their thousands. The Salcombe estuary grows Eel grass which supports a rare UK seahorse population. In fact, Eelgrass is the perfect environment for seahorse nurseries! Dolphins, basking sharks and seals are also frequent visitors to the waters giving water skiers a bit of a shock! There is one famous dolphin called Danny who normally lives in Dartmouth but he is known for his visits to Salcombe in the quieter winter months. He even has his own Facebook page with his thoughts on life in the ocean blue!
Beaches
Beaches are one of the reasons our guests return to Salcombe year after year.
