Dartmouth Castle & Castle Cove

Important dog policy note: Dogs must be on a lead. The castle interior involves multiple steps and narrow passageways, which won't suit every dog, and pushchairs are recommended to be left at the top of the site for the same reason.

Dartmouth Castle is about 10 to 15 minutes walk from the town centre, or you can take the little ferry that runs back and forth across the river during the day. We usually do both – walk there and ferry back, or the other way round.

The castle has guarded the narrow entrance to the Dart estuary for over 600 years. Inside there is plenty to explore: the atmospheric Gun Tower, winding passages and a climb to the top of the battlements for the best views over Dartmouth and out to sea. The history is brought to life with installations and displays, including a crew preparing to fire a heavy gun. Younger visitors can try on helmets, handle cannonballs and follow John Hawley’s Explorer Trail through the castle. Hawley was the inspiration for the ‘Shipman’ in Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, if you fancy the connection.

Coastal and woodland walks run around the castle if you want to stretch your legs further. Dogs are welcome on leads throughout the site.

There is a little cafe at the castle selling drinks and snacks. We often grab something to take down to Castle Cove.

Castle Cove sits just below the castle: a shingle and rock beach with beautiful views back up to the castle and out to sea. There is a long flight of steps to get down to it, and back up again. Dogs are welcome on the cove year round. At high tide the beach is completely covered, so check the tide times if you want to spend any time down there.

The castle is open daily 10am to 5pm.

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The facts

Status
Tried and tested
Region
South Devon
Area
Dartmouth
Type
Castle
Dog rules
On lead
Walk distance
0.5-2 miles
Heritage
Civil War, Medieval
Cost
Paid
Membership benefits
English Heritage
Website
awin1.com ↗

Facilities

  • Water tap
  • Dog poo bins
  • Toilets
  • Cafe on site
  • Accessible parking

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