Torcross, Beesands & Slapton: Devon’s hidden coastal gems

Devon is well-loved for its golden beaches, bustling harbours, and charming towns like Dartmouth and Kingsbridge, but travel just a little off the beaten path and you’ll find a stretch of coastline that feels like a world of its own. Nestled in South Devon’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the neighbouring villages of Torcross, Beesands and Slapton offer a slower pace, a touch of nostalgia, and a chance to experience Devon at its most authentic. With nearby Stoke Fleming and Chillington adding to the area’s appeal, this corner of South Hams is a true hidden gem worth exploring.

Torcross: Where History Meets the Sea

Torcross sits at the southern tip of Slapton Sands, a three-mile shingle beach backed by the freshwater lagoon of Slapton Ley. The village itself has a simple charm, with pastel cottages and a relaxed seafront, but it’s the history woven into this location that makes it particularly fascinating.

During the Second World War, Torcross played a pivotal role in Operation Tiger, the rehearsal for the D-Day landings. Today, the Sherman tank displayed at the village car park stands as a memorial to the hundreds of American servicemen who lost their lives. It’s a sobering reminder of the area’s wartime importance and offers a poignant layer of depth to an otherwise idyllic seaside spot.

Beyond the history, Torcross is also a place to enjoy life’s simple pleasures: fish and chips by the sea, an early morning swim in the clear waters of Start Bay, or a stroll around Slapton Ley National Nature Reserve. With its rare birdlife and peaceful walking trails, the reserve is the perfect complement to the vast sweep of the beach.

Beesands: A True Taste of Devon

Just along the coast from Torcross lies Beesands, a small fishing village that still clings to its traditional roots. A single row of cottages fronts the beach, backed by rolling farmland and open skies. While Beesands feels beautifully remote, it has a loyal following, particularly among those in the know about its food scene.

The village is famed for its seafood. The award-winning Britannia @ The Beach café has a reputation that far exceeds its modest size, serving up the freshest catch from Start Bay – think scallops, lobster, and line-caught fish, often landed just yards from where you’re sitting. Many visitors come to Beesands for this alone, pairing lunch with a stroll along the beach or a climb up to nearby Hallsands.

A short walk from Beesands brings you to one of Devon’s most haunting landmarks: the remains of Hallsands, the village lost to the sea. Once home to a thriving fishing community, Hallsands was largely destroyed in a single night in 1917 after years of coastal erosion, triggered in part by the removal of protective shingle for naval works.

Today, the remnants of the village can still be seen clinging to the cliffs below, their outlines stark against the rocks. From the viewing platform above, visitors can take in the dramatic views – a windswept stretch of coastline where history and nature have collided. Looking down, it’s easy to imagine the lives once lived here, and to understand the power of the sea in shaping both landscape and community. It’s a place that leaves a lasting impression, not just for the scenery but for the story it tells.

Slapton: Beachside Beauty with Village Charm

Slapton is best known for its vast shingle beach, a dramatic sweep of coastline that forms part of Start Bay. Backed by the freshwater lagoon of Slapton Ley and edged with quiet country lanes, it’s a destination that feels both wild and tranquil. On sunny days, the beach is a paradise for swimming, paddleboarding and simply stretching out with a picnic, while the sunsets here are some of the most spectacular in South Devon.

Tucked just inland, the village of Slapton itself offers a welcoming retreat. Narrow lanes wind between thatched cottages, and the historic square is overlooked by the striking tower of St James’ church. Cosy pubs add to the charm, giving visitors the perfect spot to unwind after a day on the sand.

For those looking for somewhere truly special to stay nearby, head to the neighbouring village of Strete where you’ll find The Lodge. This glorious and spacious home is flooded with natural light, offering far-reaching sea views from its elevated position. Designed for entertaining, it features generous living spaces and a sultry cinema room, making it a fantastic choice for multigenerational holidays or groups of friends. With seven bedrooms, The Lodge comfortably sleeps 14, blending striking design with the kind of comfort that makes it hard to leave.

Nearby Villages: Stoke Fleming and Chillington

While Torcross, Beesands, and Slapton steal much of the spotlight in this corner of South Devon, the nearby villages of Stoke Fleming and Chillington are equally worth discovering.

Stoke Fleming sits just west of Dartmouth and is perfectly placed for those who want the peace of a village but the convenience of a vibrant harbour town close by. From here, Blackpool Sands – one of Devon’s most beautiful beaches – is just a stone’s throw away, offering clear blue waters ideal for swimming and paddleboarding. The village is also home to some exceptional holiday properties. Farwell House and East Farwell Lodge are ideal for families or groups seeking a coastal escape.

Chillington, meanwhile, lies slightly inland, surrounded by rolling countryside. It’s a classic South Hams village with a friendly community and good local amenities, making it a practical yet charming stop on a tour of the area. For those staying here, there are some truly standout homes: Maberly House, which sleeps 15 and is perfect for large family gatherings; Starling House, an elegant retreat for 5; and The Wild Hare, a romantic bolthole for 2. Each property offers something unique, from expansive gardens to stylish interiors and intimate hideaways. Together they make Chillington not just a convenient base, but a destination in its own right.

A Hidden Gem Waiting to be Explored

One of the joys of visiting this part of Devon is its balance of seclusion and accessibility. Torcross, Beesands, and Slapton feel peaceful and tucked away, but within a short drive you can reach two of South Devon’s most beloved towns.

Dartmouth, with its bustling harbour, boutique shops, and gourmet restaurants, is just a 15-minute drive from Stoke Fleming, while Kingsbridge, with its estuary setting and thriving market town atmosphere, lies only a little further west. This makes the trio of villages around Slapton Sands a perfect base: you can enjoy the tranquillity of unspoilt coastline and traditional communities, with the buzz of larger towns close at hand when you want it.

Torcross, Beesands, and Slapton may not appear in every holiday guidebook, but that’s precisely what makes them so special. Together they showcase the best of South Devon – dramatic coastline, fascinating history, authentic food, and warm community spirit. Add in the nearby villages of Stoke Fleming and Chillington, plus easy access to Dartmouth and Kingsbridge, and you have a destination that truly offers the best of both worlds.

Whether you’re drawn by the call of the sea, the lure of history, or simply the joy of discovering somewhere new, this corner of Devon is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.