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Salcombe

Welcome to Cook's Boathouse

5
Bedrooms
|
10
Guests
|
4
Bathrooms

Take in the stunning panoramic postcard views over the harbour from this iconic Salcombe house.

Sitting right on the waterfront, and in the epicentre of Salcombe, Cook’s Boathouse has its own slipway, jetty and running mooring. Spacious and comfortable, this is the perfect place for families or groups of friends.

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10
Max Children:
9
Max Infants:
2
(Sleeps in a cot)
Maximum number of adults and children is 10
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Why Finest Stays love this

Wonderful sunny terrace

Relax in the sunshine on the comfortable outdoor seating

Let me entertain you

Great entertaining space to enjoy socialising with your friends and family

Perfect for groups

A great house for groups of friends or family

Brilliantly central location

Step out of the house and be right in the action

Stunning waterfront views

Drink in the views from the ground floor terrace, master bedroom and living areas

Private running mooring

Slip away on your tender and explore the beautiful harbour

Cook's Boathouse Overview

Cook’s Boathouse is one of the most iconic buildings in Salcombe. Positioned right on the waterfront, with exceptional views, its own running mooring and private slipway, this is the ultimate way to experience Salcombe.

Cook’s Boatyard was one of the original boat building yards in Salcombe with legendary Harry Cook running a successful business. Following the decline of boatbuilding in the area, it was converted into a house where natural light floods through roof lights and by way of nautical circular windows.

Entering the house through the conservatory and into the bright hallway, you can walk out onto the sunny wooden terrace and jetty with steps down to the water. The terrace is the perfect spot for sunbathing, enjoying a glass of something chilled and taking in the action on the water. There is a boat store which leads out onto the tidal slipway and running mooring. (Please note that the running mooring is available for guest use but the boat store is not other than storing boating peripheries).

The ground floor also includes a large super king or twin bedroom and en suite bathroom, a practical utility room and additional shower room; great for hosing off sandy bodies after a day on the beach.

Up to the first floor you will find two more bedrooms and a shower room. The first bedroom is a sensational super king or twin room with seating area and stunning views over the water through a huge circular window. The second bedroom is a practical twin room.

The main living area and kitchen is also on the first floor and this is where the magic happens! The large indoor space encompasses the open plan kitchen, indoor dining and comfortable seating area with gas wood effect fire. This leads out onto the balcony with sensational views over the Salcombe estuary, the famous golden sandy beaches, surrounding countryside and up the Southpool creek. Views do not get better than this whilst enjoying your evening meal or breakfast in the sunshine with friends and family.

Stairs lead up to the second floor with two more bedrooms and a family bathroom. One bedroom is a well-sized twin room and the other is the master bedroom which has a small balcony in the apex of the roof line with panoramic views over Salcombe. There is nothing better than enjoying a cup of tea in bed whilst enjoying that sea view!

Running mooring immediately in front of property (max length of boat and outboard 15’).

Owners own boats will be stored in the boathouse; not available for use.

There are low walls and unguarded slipways within the grounds. With regret, this property is not suitable for children under 8 years of age or the less mobile and all young children must be supervised.

Dogs: Please note that Cook's Boathouse does not allow dogs so is perfect for those with no pets - for guests with allergies we cannot guarantee that pets have not been at the property

Floorplan

Layout

Ground Floor

  • Entrance conservatory and hallway
  • Boathouse leading to tidal slipway and running mooring
  • Terrace with charcoal BBQ, outdoor furniture and steps down to the water
  • Super king or twin bedroom with sitting area and en suite bathroom (bath with shower over, sink, WC)
  • Utility (washing machine, tumble dryer, fridge/freezer, sink, drying area)
  • Wet room (shower, sink, WC)

First Floor

  • Open plan kitchen, dining and sitting area
  • Leads out to a balcony with dining tables and fantastic views over Salcombe
  • Super king or twin bedroom with sitting area and views over the water
  • Twin bedroom
  • Shower room (shower, sink, WC)

Second Floor

  • Master kingsize bedroom with balcony and views of the Salcombe Harbour
  • Twin bedroom
  • Family bathroom (bath with hand held shower over, sink, WC)

Outside Area

  • Boathouse leading to tidal slipway and running mooring
  • Terrace with charcoal barbecue, outdoor furniture and steps down to the water
  • Balcony on the first floor with dining tables and fantastic views over Salcombe

Finer Details

Appliances

  • TV in sitting area
  • Free WiFi throughout property
  • Kitchen with double oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, dishwasher
  • Music system in sitting area
  • Utility with washing machine, tumble dryer, fridge/freezer, sink, drying area

Facilities

  • Tidal slipway and jetty with steps to water
  • Ground floor terrace and balcony off sitting room with outdoor furniture

Parking

  • 1 x car parking permit provided (unreserved)

FAQs

Sleeps

10

Beds

  • 1 x King
  • 2 x Twins
  • 2 x Super King or Twin

Changeover Day

Thursday for peak periods, flexibility at other times and for short breaks

Arrival and Departure

Arrival from 4:00pm, departure by 10am

Coffee Machine

Nespresso Machine (takes original pods)

Wifi Speed

Upload Speed: 17.95 Mb/s
Download Speed: 48.76 Mb/s
Last checked on 25/01/2023

Bed Linen

High quality bed linen supplied and changed weekly

Toiletries

The White Company toiletries provided

Towels

Each guest has one hand towel and one bath sheet

Dog Friendly?

This property does not allow dogs.

Mobile Reception

Click here for information

EV Charging Locations

Click here for information

Additional Information

  • Charcoal BBQ
  • Slipway and tidal mooring (up to 15' with outboard)
  • Unsuitable for children under 8 as direct water access without a barrier
  • High chair and travel cot unavailable
  • Outside seating area with access to the water
  • One parking permit for the long stay car park at Creek End (summer) or Shadycombe (winter)
  • Iron and ironing board available
We provide a complimentary starter supply of essentials including toilet rolls, washing-up liquid and hand soap to help you settle in. If you’re staying longer than a few days, or prefer to have extras to hand, we recommend bringing along additional supplies for your self-catering stay.

If you’d like to check any specific information that isn't mentioned in our descriptions, please call us and speak to one of our Holiday Consultants or see our FAQ's page.

Parking Information

The owners have provided 1 x parking permit for the long stay car park in Salcombe. Creek Car Park is in operation 1st April - 30th September; use Shadycombe Car Park outside these dates. Please ensure you return the permit to the property at the end of your stay.

For any additional parking, there is free parking along Devon Road - spaces are not guaranteed but usually you can find something given a little patience! If you head along Devon Road (going towards North Sands rather than the end closer to town), there are some spaces under the trees which are not time restricted.

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Cook's Boathouse Location

Tucked away on the Southern Coast of Devon you will find Salcombe: an iconic seaside town renowned for it’s picturesque harbour, sun-soaked beaches and captivating coastlines. 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.

Why book with us

Truly Personal

From your first enquiry to check-out, you’ll deal with real people who care about your stay. No call centres here.

Local Experts

We live and breathe Devon, with insider knowledge of hidden gems. Follow our weekend highlights on Instagram for inspiration and a taste of local life.

Competitive Prices

Book direct for the best rates, with no added commission or surprise charges that online booking channels love to sneak in.

Handpicked Homes

Every property is personally picked by real humans with exceptional taste, so your stay lives up to your expectations.

Availability
Arrival
Available
Departure
Unavailable
Selected
Guests
Max Adults:
10
Max Children:
9
Max Infants:
2
(Sleeps in a cot)
Maximum number of adults and children is 10
Previous
Next
Select an arrival day to begin
Please select a departure day.
Select a new arrival date
Loading Getting availability
 
Summary
Nights
From
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For
Total Cost (inc booking fee)
Sorry, but your searched dates are not available for this property
Get in touch today | Finest Stays

Get in touch

Our Finest Stays specialists are available everyday to answer all your booking enquiries.

Call
Another year, another week in this fabulous house, possibly the best location in Salcombe. Superb views of the Harbour and decorated beautifully, next to the water or the shops depending on which door you step out through.
Mrs Mitchell
September 2026
As always, we loved staying at Cook’s Boathouse. It is a fun and practical house (e.g. the most beautiful sitting room, great storage downstairs, ever hot showers) in an amazing location. It is so fantastic to be able to moor our boat right outside, to be able to pop out for fresh bread and croissants in the morning and to have that incredible view filled with the unique light of Salcombe always before us. This year had the added benefits of wall to wall sunshine and the town regatta, which our family enthusiastically participated in and loved.
Mrs Fell
July 2026
For location, patio and size the property gets a 5 star review.
Mr Aylward
July 2026
We absolutely loved Cooks Boat House. The location and views are amazing and the house worked really well for 3 generations of family for our Easter break. The slipway was an added bonus for our dinghy and the unexpected sunny days made for a 5* memorable stay.
Jane Multon
April 2026
We love staying in Cooks Boathouse. The kitchen/living room is the most beautiful room, opening out onto the veranda and the best view you could ever ask for. The main bedroom is similarly stunning. We also value having so much space, being right by the water and right in the centre of Salcombe too.
Ms Fell
July 2024
If you want to be in the heart of Salcombe then it doesn’t get much better than this house. Easy to walk to beach’s or catch the boat from the pier just outside. Really convenient for the shops of Salcombe too!
Ms Khosa
April 2024
We had a wonderful week in Cook’s Boathouse! 5 stars of course for Cooks Boathouse. It’s as perfect as ever
Ms Mitchell
September 2023
We loved the Cooks Boathouse! We thought it might be a little noisy of where it's positioned but to our surprise it wasn't at all. It really works for us as a family.
Mrs Pochin
August 2022
Wonderful time. Having the streets and shops of Salcombe on your doorstep but not 'in your face’ is a real bonus. And having our boat right there, ready to go anywhere, and being able to swim from the back door. What a sitting out area too!
Mrs Nell
August 2022
We really loved Cook's Boathouse. What we really appreciated was that view! Ever changing and such glorious light – and a constant source of entertainment for the grandchildren, with all the activity of the Harbour Masters ("The Police"!), the South Sands ferry, the water taxis and the Lifeboat.
Mrs Fell
July 2022

Explore Salcombe

Yoga in Salcombe

Yoga in Salcombe: Coastal classes, beach yoga and wellbeing by the sea A holiday in Salcombe is all about rest, relaxation, and having a wonderful time. So, with its tranquil views, ocean soundtrack, and leisurely lifestyle, what could be a more perfect addition to your trip than a yoga class or two? Thankfully, with that in mind, Salcombe offers a variety of different opportunities to enjoy yoga, often connecting with nature whilst also improving physical and mental wellbeing. From beachside classes overlooking the sea to rainy day retreats when the weather isn’t playing ball, here’s our guide to yoga classes in Salcombe, from outdoor experiences to wellness days that make it one of South Devon’s most peaceful places to practise. Why is Salcombe perfect for yoga? There are lots of things that make Salcombe special, but in our opinion it’s all about the natural landscape, which lends itself to relaxation and mindfulness. You could recognise the rolling hills, sheltered beaches, and particular configuration of the estuary anywhere, and it’s against that backdrop that wellbeing in all its forms becomes a natural part of your stay. As such, many local teachers and studios in the area incorporate nature into their sessions, so you can enjoy the sound of the waves, fresh sea air, and that all-encompassing scenery to help deepen relaxation. Unsurprisingly, outdoor yoga sessions are especially popular during the warmer months, when sunrise and sunset classes are often held on beaches or terraces overlooking the water - weather permitting! Yoga classes in Salcombe There are several experienced yoga teachers and wellness practitioners offering classes in and around Salcombe throughout the year. Many classes are suitable for beginners as well as more experienced yogis, making them accessible for visitors trying yoga for the first time as well as those who are practically pros. Studio and small classes Amongst the local yoga teachers, we love BlueDog Yoga, which offers weekly classes in Salcombe and nearby Kingsbridge. Sessions range from Vinyasa flow classes and studio sessions to outdoor yoga experiences, with small group sizes keeping guidance more personalised. The studio also runs private yoga sessions, ideal for individuals, couples, or small groups visiting the area on holiday. The Start of Now, run by Kate, is perfect for private one-to-one classes and small groups in Kingsbridge and Salcombe - you can choose your location, whether it's the beach or your own holiday home balcony. Free yoga classes Another option is the lovely Donna at Simply Soulful Yoga. She offers an array of yoga sessions across Salcombe and the South Hams, from private classes to online options, and free classes using her On Demand library. Her classes combine movement (asana), breathing techniques (pranayama), and mindfulness practices to help improve both physical health and emotional wellbeing. Sessions are typically small and friendly, making them great for all levels. Beach yoga in Salcombe Obviously, when in Salcombe, one of the most memorable ways to practise yoga is on the beach. The combination of sea air, open space, and natural scenery creates a calming atmosphere that enhances relaxation and mindfulness - you might even opt for a swim afterwards! The Harbour Beach Club Hotel & Spa at South Sands offers seasonal beach yoga sessions from April to September, usually in the early morning when there aren’t lots of people around. Our friend Donna at Simply Soulful also organises beach sessions as well as yoga on stand-up paddleboards - more on that in a moment. Not only held on the beach, lots of local instructors, like Wild Earth Yoga, led by Chloe, do outdoor sessions on terraces and clifftops to help you make the most of the great outdoors. You might go a step further and combine sea swimming, yoga, and outdoor sauna experiences for the ultimate wellness morning. SUP yoga in Salcombe For those looking for more of a yoga challenge, stand-up paddleboard (SUP) yoga is also making a splash - sometimes quite literally. SUP yoga combines traditional yoga poses with paddleboarding, pushing your balance and core strength even harder as you practise on the water. Classes rather depend on calm seas, but believe it or not they can be suitable for both beginners and experienced paddleboarders. It’s a lovely way to enjoy a unique perspective of the coastline while developing balance, focus, and strength. Yoga retreats in Salcombe & South Devon For those seeking a deeper wellness experience, yoga retreats in Salcombe offer more of a chance to fully immerse yourself in relaxation and self-care, and make yoga a central feature of your holiday. Lots of local providers offer retreats that span a day or several days, while Finest Stays can make sure you have the best place to stay close by. For example, Wild Earth Yoga hosts seasonal retreats like their Wild Earth Wellness Fest in Mothecombe Gardens, which includes a full schedule of wellness activities, yoga, nature workshops, essential oil massage workshops, delicious healthy food, yoga Nidra, sauna rituals, and wild swims. Relax in Salcombe Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach class, a private yoga session, or an integrative wellness retreat, Salcombe offers lots of opportunities to practise yoga in some of Devon’s most beautiful landscapes. Want to perfect your chaturanga by the coast? Finest Stays invites you to stay in some of the most relaxing locations by the sea, with a Salcombe holiday cottage for every occasion, whether you’re on a family holiday or a group getaway.

Coasteering in Salcombe

Where can I go coasteering in Salcombe? We have written before about the magic of seeing the South Hams from the water, but for those looking for a completely different perspective and a chance to get even closer to the landscape, coasteering might be just the activity you're after. With Salcombe's spectacular coastline brimming with beaches, hidden caves, and hard-to-reach coves, those with a spirit for adventure will love the opportunity to blend nature, adrenaline, and lots of fun. What is coasteering? Coasteering is a sport that combines different elements including cliff scrambling, sea swimming, jumping, and navigating rocky shorelines. It's essentially coastal climbing - fusing the words 'coast' and 'mountaineering' the term is a pretty accurate description of the activity. Wearing helmets, wetsuits and buoyancy aids, it's unlike any other coastal sport, seeing you navigate the space between land and sea, often being submerged in water, exploring off the proverbial beaten track, and being up close and personal with nature.  Whether you’re jumping into the waves, exploring sea caves, or scaling cliffs, coasteering is all about embracing the elements and challenging yourself with the help of knowledgeable guidance. Why is Salcombe a coasteering hotspot? Salcombe's main attraction is definitely the landscape - it's iconic in its shape and beauty, transforming with the seasons and always offering something new to discover no matter how many times you visit. This is a part of the world where you simply must spend time outside, otherwise you're missing a trick. For many that's a stroll along the South West Coast Path or a dip in the sea, but for those who want to see the world through a different lens, coasteering is the way forward. Set in the South Devon AONB, it's that dramatic natural setting with an immense amount of wildlife that makes Salcombe perfect for coasteering adventures. Those who try coasteering in Salcombe are in for a treat, discovering rugged cliffs and coves, idyllic hidden pools and caves, and a world of diverse marine life that shifts with the tides and weather. Top spots for coasteering near Salcombe If you're looking for dramatic beauty spots in Salcombe, you're spoiled for choice, but local specialists will make sure to find you the best places to explore on any given day, not only depending on the location itself, but the weather, tides, time of year, and your level of experience. Some of the top spots include: Salcombe In Salcombe itself, the team at Adventure South offer coasteering suitable for entry level adventurers including beginners and children. Setting off from the gorgeous North Sands beach by the famous Winking Prawn restaurant, it includes jumps up to five metres, and an exhilarating exploration of natural treasures such as gullies, channels, caves and rocky ledges. Start Point Start Point is best known for its lighthouse, which dates to 1836, and juts out over Start Bay on a corner of the South West Coast Path, making it a spectacular point for spotting wildlife like dolphins or seals. Adventure South invites you to enjoy intermediate level coasteering with jumps up to eight metres, for three hours of adventure. Sea-n-Shore is another local provider also offering coasteering from Start Point. Swim in the sea, scramble over the rocks, explore sea caves, and experience the power of Mother Nature. Photo credit: South Devon National Landscape Gara Rock Gara Rock on East Portlemouth is perhaps best known for its eponymous hotel, which also serves superb tea and cake - worth noting for after your adventure. Across the estuary from Salcombe, it's a real beauty spot, with a wild landscape, quiet beaches, and spectacular views. For advanced level coasteering, Gara Rock is a magnificent place to rock jump, play in the swell, and enjoy plenty of adrenaline. Again, the team at Adventure South offer guided sessions with jumps up to 10 metres on a 3.5 hour experience suitable for those over the age of 14. What should I expect when coasteering in Salcombe? The main thing to expect when coasteering in Salcombe is to have a lot of fun. For the more trepidatious amongst us, it can push us a little beyond our comfort zones, but local guides are pros at keeping you safe and helping you navigate this different side of a Salcombe holiday. Expect to spend time in the water, discover nature in a way you never have before, and gain a whole new appreciation for the power of the sea. There's jumping, swimming, climbing, shimmying, and even a few quiet moments to observe the world around you. When you book coasteering, your guides will advise you about what you need to bring and what's provided. However, as a rule of thumb you should expect to bring your own shoes, a warm change of clothes, swimwear, a towel and a bottle of water. Guides will provide Professional assistance, wetsuits, buoyancy aids and helmets, a safety briefing and routes tailored to your experience level. Tips before you go coasteering The main thing to do before you go coasteering is to be open to the experience. Perhaps you're super excited about it, or maybe you're a little nervous - either way you will have a wonderful time. Some of the things you can do to be prepared include:  1. Be prepared to get wet Even on calm days, part of the experience being by the sea is taking a few splashes! A good wetsuit and sturdy footwear are essential to enjoying the experience. 2. Choose a reputable operator Safety is key, so having a trusty guide is really important for making sure you have a good time in safe hands. Make sure your coasteering provider has qualified guides, safety gear, and good reviews. 3. Check the weather and the tides Naturally your guide will do this for you, but conditions can change quickly on the coast, so be prepared for plans to be made around tides and swell for a safe and exciting experience, or to make changes if necessary. Always respect the ocean. 4. Bring a sense of adventure The coasteering experience can incorporate lots of different elements, with some sections offering more of a challenge than others. Stay positive, listen to your guides, keep an open mind, and enjoy every moment. Who can try coasteering? A little known fact is that while coasteering seems like something only the highly qualified should engage in, with the right guidance and expertise to make sure the level of activity is suitable, coasteering is actually a great activity for children (generally over the age of eight), families, couples, and groups of friends, from beginners to experts. A great way to spend time together, learn new skills, and discover new experience, helpful attributes include: Proficient swimming skills Moderate fitness levels  An adventurous spirit Lots of energy An adventure for thrill seekers & adventure lovers Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer wanting to add a little adrenaline to your holiday, or you simply want to try something different, coasteering around Salcombe is a unique way to explore and make the most of your surroundings. Combining scenery, a physical challenge, and seaside fun in one of the most beautiful parts of the South West, it's the ultimate experience - not to mention a great photo opportunity. Want to find the perfect place to relax after your big adventure? Finest Stays invites you to stay in some of the most spectacular locations by the sea, with a Salcombe holiday cottage for every occasion, whether you’re on a family holiday or a group getaway.

Indoor activities in Salcombe

What indoor activities are there in Salcombe? Salcombe is famed for being a seaside destination where the sun shines, the ice cream is second to none, and days at the beach are what life is made for. Its natural beauty is unparalleled, and those that visit invariably return, building memories that last a lifetime, peppered with sea swims, buckets and spades, boat trips, and jaunts along the coast path. However, this being the UK, what do you do in Salcombe on rainy days?  For those who don't fancy splashing in the wet weather, here are the indoor activities waiting to be enjoyed in Salcombe. Explore the local heritage This pretty little seaside town has a lot of reverence for its past, especially when it comes to its maritime heritage. As you potter through town, spare a moment for the Salcombe Maritime Museum - a discreet treasure trove brimming with models, paintings, photographs and artefacts that tell the story of Salcombe’s links with ships and the sea, from ancient times to the Second World War. The RNLI is an essential part of life by the water, so a trip to the Salcombe Lifeboat Museum is a chance to hear about more than 140 years of courageous lifesaving history, and to chat to some of the incredible crew.  Then again, for a totally different type of heritage, you might like to visit Overbeck's at Sharpitor. The National Trust property is surrounded by an incredible seven-acre subtropical Grade II registered garden. The house was formerly owned by the famous chemist, Otto Overbeck, and is filled with treasures. It was closed for maintenance in 2020, but is expected to reopen this year. There's also a lovely kiosk, situated at the Coach House by the entrance, for a bite to eat. Photo credit: Lucy Young Art Browse the shops & galleries Retail therapy is a favourite pastime for all of us, and Salcombe is full of boutiques and art galleries waiting to be explored. Wander through the town centre and you’ll find everything from coastal-inspired homeware to local artwork. Favourites include Chattels of Salcombe for gifts, Musto, Henri Lloyd or Quba for all the right wet weather and sailing kit, Crew Clothing for a classic Salcombe aesthetic, and of course Cranch's Sweetshop for traditional confectionery. Cosy cafes & restaurants Rainy days are the perfect excuse to slow down and enjoy Salcombe’s food scene. After all, this is a part of the world famous for its clotted cream, fudge, and its crab sandwiches. Some of the local establishments are as famous as the town itself. Take a stroll to North Sands for lunch, brunch, and summer barbecues by the beach at The Winking Prawn, tuck into local seafood at The Crab Shed, grab a coffee and cake at The Ward Room, or dine with friends at Rockfish. Spa by the sea Few things are quite as relaxing as time by the sea, but you can super-charge the feel-good-factor with one of the area's luxury spas. Head to the HarSPA at Harbour Hotel Salcombe in the heart of town for a swim with a view of the estuary and a spa treatment or two. Also from the Harbour Hotels group comes the Harbour Beach Club Hotel & Spa at South Sands. Hop over to East Portlemouth for pampering at Gara Rock's Wild Rock Spa, settle in for a swim and therapy at Soar Mill Cove Hotel, or pop over to Thurlestone Hotel for time well spent in their Voyage Spa.  Sample Salcombe's Finest Get a taste for Salcombe's finest fare with experiences designed to entertain and indulge. Salcombe really knows how to enjoy the finer things in life - amongst them, gin, rum, and chocolate. Go to the Salcombe Distillery for award-winning experiences from learning to distil your own bottle of gin to tutored tastings. Alternatively, sample artisan spiced and flavoured rums, have a hands-on rum making experience, or join a boozy rum cocktail masterclass at the Devon Rum Co. For something a little more wholesome, pop along to Salcombe Dairy on Island Street for The Salchemist Experience - a chance to taste their famous ice cream and bean-to-bar chocolate. Photo credit: Devon Rum Co Explore the local area While Salcombe itself has plenty to see and do, don't forget there's a wider world in the South Hams waiting to be explored. Nearby Kingsbridge or further afield at Totnes, Dartmouth, and Dartmoor they all offer lots of beautiful places to explore. For crafty projects try Paper Bird Island, enjoy an evening out at Kings Cinema, learn about the local area at Cookworthy Museum, have a cup of tea and a potter round the shops at Avon Mill Garden Centre, sample the spice of life at South Devon Chilli Farm, and try a spot of pottery or learn how to shape your own surfboard at Outside Devon. The Cider Press Centre at Dartington is a haven for curated local arts, crafts, food and contemporary living inspiration, hop aboard the steam trains at South Devon Railway, or flutter over to The Butterfly House in Buckfastleigh. Reading, games & watching the world go by Sometimes the simplest indoor activity in Salcombe is the most enjoyable. Whether it’s settling into a cosy corner with a book or playing board games at your Salcombe holiday cottage, the soul-soothing atmosphere in the South Hams makes it easy to slow down and recharge. Enjoy time with friends and family, whether you're staying at a holiday home with a Jacuzzi, snuggling up by the fire, or watching the waves crash from the comfort of the sofa. After all, indoor activities can simply be about enjoying a moment of calm and quality time together. Looking for a place to stay by the sea? With a Salcombe holiday cottage you can relax come rain or shine, whether you’re on a family holiday or a group getaway or a romantic retreat.

Salcombe Regattas

The Salcombe regattas Every summer, the seaside town of Salcombe turns into a hive of tradition and activity as it plays host to two consecutive and much-loved events that attract sailors, families and holidaymakers from across the UK. The Salcombe Town Regatta is a week of entertainment and celebration that encourages people of all ages to get involved with the community, while the Salcombe Yacht Club Regatta is a competitive occasion for sailors, that’s also a treat to watch from the shore.  Against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Salcombe estuary, both festivals capture the spirit of the coastal community with a blend of sailing, family entertainment, live music and breathtaking scenery. Salcombe Town Regatta: A traditional seaside festival For many, the week in August that marks the Salcombe Town Regatta, is the stuff that childhood memories are made of, encompassing sandcastle competitions, races across the mud at low tide, spot the bloomer competitions, the 'greasy pole' (you really have to be there), fun runs, harbour swims, and all coming together in a spectacular torchlight water procession and fireworks display (oggy oggy oggy!). Fun and games for the whole family - the town becomes a hive of entertainment, brimming with bunting, a carnival atmosphere, a popular party on Island Street, and stalls to peruse in Whitestrand Car Park.  Festivities on the water The water plays a pivotal role in the festivities, providing both the backdrop and much of the entertainment. Watch the action unfold or get involved in the harbour swim, greasy pole, raft races, mud races and more. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, sample some of South Devon’s finest local produce, from crab, fish and scallops to gin, clotted cream and fudge, either at Salcombe’s cafes, restaurants or the quayside stalls at Whitestrand. Fun for all the family The Salcombe Town Regatta has something for everyone but is very much geared towards families, with activities for all ages. Children’s races, crabbing competitions, treasure hunts and beach games provide plenty of entertainment for younger visitors. Traditional favourites include the Spot the Bloomer competition and a sandcastle competition at South Sands beach (there are some very serious sandcastle builders amongst us).  Evening entertainment There’s a lively, inclusive atmosphere throughout Salcombe Regatta, with celebrations continuing from day into evening. The Island Street Party takes place on the first Sunday of the regatta bringing live music, food, drink, family activities and stalls selling local goods, while the week draws to a memorable close with a torch-lit lantern procession on the water followed by a spectacular fireworks display over the estuary. Salcombe Yacht Club Regatta: Sailing at its finest A more specialist occasion, but one that everyone who visits Salcombe can take enormous pleasure in watching, is the Salcombe Yacht Club Regatta - usually in the last week of July. For sailing enthusiasts, this thrilling week of competitive racing in one of the country’s most scenic natural harbours is a truly special occasion, and certainly the events are a sight to behold. Organised by the Salcombe Yacht Club, the regatta attracts experienced sailors and spectators as the estuary comes alive with yachts, dinghies, yawls, and more, racing across the water, creating a mesmerising scene against the green hills and sandy beaches. Visitors can watch the racing from the waterfront and nearby beaches while soaking up the maritime atmosphere, in an event that reflects Salcombe’s long-standing sailing heritage. More than sailing Beyond the regattas themselves, summer in Salcombe is the stuff that Pinterest boards are made of, offering plenty to enjoy, from natural scenery to local attractions. Beautiful beaches like North Sands and South Sands are perfect for swimming, paddleboarding and relaxing in the sun, while the South West Coast Path provides wonderful walks with panoramic sea views. On hot days, few things hit the spot quite like a Salcombe Dairy ice cream, and when those energy levels drop, a trip to the traditional Cranch’s Sweetshop is most definitely in order.   Planning your Salcombe stay Unsurprisingly, both regattas are extremely popular times to visit the area, so Salcombe holiday cottages get booked up quickly. If you’re able to book in advance it can make your plans much smoother, and ensure holiday homes in the nearest locations, but then again you might prefer to be a little outside the action so you can dip in and out as you please. Whether you are visiting for the family-friendly festivities of the Salcombe Town Regatta or the spectacular sailing during the Salcombe Yacht Club Regatta, these unique summer events offer a wonderful opportunity to experience the very best of Devon’s coastal charm. Book your Salcombe holiday cottage

Sailing

You haven’t really seen Salcombe until you’ve explored it from the sea.

Wellness in Salcombe

We think that relaxation is a really important part of a holiday, so even if your self-catered Salcombe holiday home doesn’t have its own swimming pool, we want you to feel chilled out.

Walking & Hiking

The best way to see the Salcombe area is to go on a walk and explore the stunning coastline.

Events

With a wide variety of live music, side-splitting comedy, and sporting events on offer, there is plenty to see and do in Salcombe all year round.

Crabbing

Crabbing in Salcombe is a wonderful pastime popular with all the family.

 

Sauna season is back

Use code SAUNA26 when you book your South Devon stay and enjoy £26 off to put towards a local sauna session. Book by 31st December 2026. Applies to new bookings only.

 

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