Salcombe

Salcombe is the most southerly town in the South Hams region of Devon, and a popular boating and resort centre. The town is built around the Kingsbridge estuary, and offers superb boating opportunities and easy access to spectacular coastline and peaceful countryside as you venture inland.

The area around Salcombe is dotted with picturesque villages reached by narrow, winding lanes. A few miles away is Hope Cove, a popular unspoilt village with excellent sandy beaches.

Regular tours of Salcombe harbour and the estuary leave from the quay. One of the highlights of the estuary cruise is the Egremont, a former ferry vessel. This was the original 'Ferry Across the Mersey' that was made famous in the 1960s song by Gerry and the Pacemakers. It is now home to the Island Cruising Club, who use it as a base for club events, sailing lessons, and cruises.

The Rivermaid service (seasonal) provides a nautical cruise to Kingsbridge, at the head of the estuary. The East Portlemouth ferry takes visitors across the estuary to lovely, sheltered beaches at Smalls Cove, Mill Bay and Sunny Cove. The South Sands ferry takes you to within walking distance of Overbeck, an exotic 7 acre garden based about an elegant Edwardian house.

Narrow lanes lead to the lovely harbour at Salcombe

There are National Trust Coastal Walks at Snapes Point and Bolberry, and the South West Coast Path runs through Salcombe, allowing easy walks to Hope Cove and Gara Rock.

Salcombe's Maritime and Local History Museum tells the story of the town and its Maritime heritage.