Situated on the bank of the Kingsbridge Estuary, Salcombe is a great place to visit for a holiday or day trip. It is located within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and, therefore, is no wonder that it is one of the prettiest towns in the area. Known for its coastal views and surrounded by rolling countryside, why not make a visit on Your Devon Escape.
Salcombe’s history is intrinsically linked to the sea. Until about 100 years ago, the town’s people earned their living from the estuary and the sea. Fishing, seafaring, boat, and shipbuilding were the main occupations. However, due to a history of piracy, the main settlements were not built near the water’s edge. The harbour finds itself filled with an excellent selection of shops and restaurants lined along narrow streets for you to explore. Salcombe is a thriving harbour today, just without the pirates.
The town is lined with lovely boutiques, high street brands and independent producers. Browse for hours, ambling along the cobble streets. Find something wonderful and unique in one of the locally owned shops to take home with you to remember Your Devon Escape or take in the art galleries and gift shops. Salcombe is also home to the famous brand Jack Wills, which was started in the town. Be sure to visit the store whilst visiting and do some retail therapy from a local turned national brand.
Some of the best restaurants and bars in the area are in Salcombe, serving locally caught fresh seafood and locally farmed produce. The Winking Prawn, located at South Sands, and Victoria Inn, situated in the heart of Salcombe are just two of the locals’ favourites to check out. Or if dining in isn’t for you, try some delicious Salcombe Dairy Ice Cream from their award-winning shop in the town. Or head to the Salcombe Gin Distillery and make yourself a bottle of gin to take home as a momentum of Your (perfect) Devon Escape.
If you fancy exploring more of the surrounding area by foot, why not check out part of the South West Coast Path. The path runs straight through the town, so start or finish in Salcombe or make it a stop on your walk. For recommendations of walks to try, check out our journal or the Coast Path website. Or if you are staying in Salcombe and fancy exploring further afield, why not check out the Start Point Lighthouse, a short drive away for views out across the bay.
The estuary is a haven of water sports. From sailing and kayaking to paddleboarding and surfing, give one a try. Or if you want something more leisurely, why not head to one of the beaches surrounding Salcombe in the estuary. With South Sands and North Sands within walking distance of the town centre, and East Portlemouth accessible by ferry across the estuary, enjoy one of the beautiful beaches a stone’s throw from the town. Or if you fancy travelling further, head to Bigbury-on-Sea or Bantham beaches.
If you want to know more, head to the tourist information centre when visiting the town. Or get in touch with us for more recommendations 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.