Bantham is a coastal village in South Devon. It lies on the estuary of the River Avon, close to Bigbury. Located within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you can see why people fall in love with this idyllic haven. With stunning coastal views and surrounded by beautiful green rolling hills, it truly is spectacular.
The village was built during the Romans to help protect the entrance to the river at Bantham Ham and quickly became a local fishing village. Today, it is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, known for its beautiful beach and water sports.
The village has a privately owned beach which offers some of the best water sports in the Westcountry. Popular for kite surfers, windsurfers, and surfers alike, Bantham beach is the perfect spot to try a new water sport or enjoy your favourite in a new location. If you fancy a lesson on Your Devon Escape, get in touch with Bantham Surfing Academy who can organise lessons or courses for all skills levels. They offer both group and private lessons alongside hire. Check them out to get on the water on a surfboard, bodyboard, kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Or if adventure activities are not for you, it is simply a beautiful sandy beach perfect for relaxing and enjoying the Devon coastline. The estuary also offers a shallow stream, ideal for young children to play in safely.
Bantham Beach and Bigbury-On-Sea are unique in the face that you can walk between the beaches at low tide. Just be sure to not get stuck!
For those wanting to explore more of the South Devon coastline, the South West Coast Path passes straight through Bantham. Start in the village or walk from various other starting locations in the area, such as Bigbury-On-Sea, Hope Cove, Salcombe or Thurlestone. Some walks require you to cross the River Avon. You can either walk meander around the River Avon or cross the river via the seasonal pedestrian ferry which operations from April to September. It is a popular shortcut amongst walkers. Check out their website to find out their ferry times and see our journal for suggested coastal walks in the local area.
After a day spent at the beach or exploring the South West Coast Path, head to The Sloop Inn for a delicious dinner or beverage. The 14th century inn is a friendly, award-winning pub, steeped in tradition and history. Offering local favourites and traditional pub food, it provides a warming environment after a day of exploring or relaxing, so be sure to check it out on Your Devon Escape.
For more ideas for what to do on Your Devon Escape, why not check out our journal for recommendations. Or make us all jealous on Your Devon Escape by sharing your adventures with #yourdevonescape or tag us on Facebook @YourDevonEscape, on Instagram @your_devon_escape or TikTok @yourdevonescapeltd.