Secrets of Salcombe

Your insider guide to Salcombe

One of the prettiest towns in South Devon, with stunning sea views from the harbour and a myriad of multi-coloured sailing boats gliding along the tidal estuary, it’s hard to imagine more picturesque surroundings. The town itself is a charming destination, with countless boutiques, cafés and restaurants scattered amongst the pastel-hued houses. Surrounded by secluded beaches, coastal towns and historical landmarks, Salcombe is the ideal base for exploring the South Hams by foot, boat, kayak or paddle board.

With so much on offer in Salcombe, it can be difficult to decide on a holiday itinerary. That’s why our team of local experts have done the research for you, and come up with a list of insider suggestions and tips to help you discover Salcombe’s secrets.

1. Explore the hidden Soar Mill Cove

The tranquil and secluded Soar Mill Cove is only accessible by boat or on foot. If you’re looking for an adventure, the walk along the South West Coast Path from Salcombe to Soar Mill Cove is absolutely stunning. However, at just under miles and with various steep ascents and descents, it’s definitely not for the faint hearted. If you’d like a shorter stroll, park at the Bolberry Down National Trust car park and follow the coast path down to the sandy beach. For experienced kayakers, the route around the headland to the cove is beautiful on a calm day.

2. Become an expert distiller at Salcombe Gin School

The Salcombe Gin Bar and Distillery on Island Street is loved by locals and visitors alike, and is well worth a visit. If you’re a gin enthusiast, you can now book an unforgettable experience at the Salcombe Gin School. An expert distiller will take you through the fascinating distillation process and will help you develop a unique gin recipe. What’s more, you’ll be able to personalise your own bottle and take your gin creation home to share with family and friends.

3. Get creative at Paper Bird Island Arts and Crafts Workshop

If you and your family love getting creative, the Paper Bird Island Arts and Crafts Workshop offers a friendly and relaxed space to work on some arty projects. Perfect for rainy days, this charming venue is bursting with brilliant ideas and colourful materials for the whole family to get involved. If you’re after a bit of ‘you’ time, there are also a range of adult-only creative sessions in the evenings.

4. Indulge in heavenly Salcombe Dairy Ice Cream

A visit to Salcombe wouldn’t be complete without sampling the award-winning range of Salcombe Dairy ice creams, sorbets and frozen yoghurts. Tucked away at the end of Island Street, you’ll struggle to choose between the array of delicious flavours, from Kenyan Coffee to Chocolate Orange and Peppermint Chocolate Flake.

5. Shop at the first ever Jack Wills store

Salcombe is well known for its myriad of independent boutiques offering the finest in fashion, homeware, food and gifts. A heavenly destination for shopaholics, Fore Street has a rich and fascinating history when it comes to fashion. World-famous British brands like Jack Wills and Crew Clothing were founded in Salcombe in the 1990s, and the first ever Jack Wills shop is worth a browse.

6. Try your hand at seafood cookery at The Crab Shed

Relaxed and laid-back, The Crab Shed is famous for its incredibly high quality shellfish. The ideal spot for a lazy lunch or romantic evening meal, you won’t find more delicious seafood in the area. If you’re looking to brush up on your culinary skills, The Crab Shed run a range of hands-on cookery classes throughout the year. An absolute treat for foodies, you’ll learn how to prep and cook seafood from their experienced Head Chef.

7. Discover the South Devon coastline by kayak

Well known for its range of watersports, Salcombe’s calm estuary and pretty coastline are best explored by boat, kayak or paddle board. There’s a whole range of activities on offer, from sailing to wake boarding and diving. Led by an experienced guide, the Rockhopper Kayak Tour is ideal for those with a bit of experience. Adventure-lovers will get a chance to explore the amazing variety of South Devon coastline, and will discover hidden coves, dramatic gulleys and secluded rock formations.

Our delightful property Waterside occupies an idyllic and exclusive location on the edge of the Salcombe Estuary. Sleeping six to eight guests across three beautifully designed bedrooms, Waterside takes full advantage of its stunning outlook. With a balcony overlooking the tidal estuary and sparkling seas beyond, this luxury holiday home exudes coastal tranquilty. Located just minutes from Salcombe Harbour and with the South West Coast Path on its doorstep, Waterside is perfectly situated for exploring South Devon.