Discover Dittisham on the River Dart

Dittisham combines the River Dart with varied trails, a lively local history and distinctive experiences of the local cuisine. Anyone planning a trip can choose between a linear riverside walk, short routes through the village, historic sights and experiences on the water. This combination makes Dittisham an interesting base for a trip where nature, culture and village life come together.

Walking between the village, river and viewpoints

The 8-mile Dart Valley Trail begins at the Dittisham Ham car park in Dittisham. For a longer walk, the section from Dittisham to Totnes is also available: this is a linear walk upstream along the Dart. When planning your day, therefore, consider whether you want to walk along the river or use various shorter routes in the village.

Signposted public footpaths, minor roads and Green Lanes can be used to explore the local landscape. Short routes within the village lead along roads to the quieter parts of Old Dittisham and to the Quay and waterside area. The Ham is a tree-lined green space by the river with views of the Dart, making it another distinctive place to pause during your exploration.

Anyone wishing to combine a viewpoint with historical significance can include Fire Beacon Hill at Bozomzeal near Dittisham in their plans. In 1588, the hill formed part of a chain of signal fires intended to warn of the approach of the Spanish Armada. The route to Fire Beacon offers panoramic views of Torbay, the English Channel, Dartmoor and the lower reaches of the River Dart.

Water, history and events

From Dittisham, the Greenway water taxi runs daily on demand after the ferry bell has been rung. There are also opportunities for kayaking on the River Dart near Dittisham. Eighteen visitor buoys are available off Dittisham. Anyone interested in the village's historical and cultural side will find a Grade I listed building, the highest category of protection, in the Church of St George.

A special date in the village calendar is the Dittisham Regatta. It takes place every August at the Quay and is an all-day, family-oriented event. The crossing between Dittisham and Greenway has been used for more than a thousand years; as a result, the water connection has a remarkable historical dimension in addition to its practical significance.

Local cuisine and choosing your accommodation

Part of the local character is the plum variety from Dittisham known as “Plowman”. It is considered possibly unique to Dittisham and resembles the “Victoria” variety. The Anchorstone Café is also located on the banks of the River Dart in the village. It specialises in seafood lunches, including crab, lobster and mussels.

When choosing a holiday apartment or holiday cottage in Dittisham, you can base your decision on how you would like to spend your days.

For broader travel planning, you can also explore Yarcombe, Appledore, Coffinswell, Croyde, Bere Alston, Frithelstock, Lympstone and Sampford Spiney.

For the higher-level travel overview: Devon.