Summary
Key Features
Location
Reviews
Things To Do
Summary:
With stunning views from the living room and private garden as well as private on-site parking, 6 & 7 School Steps has all the key elements for a fabulous holiday in Dartmouth year-round. You’re a short walk from the River Dart and the historic town centre. Take in the coastal air on the private terrace with both open-air and covered areas and a stone pizza oven. This reverse-level holiday home suits families or couples looking to enjoy this beautiful riverside town or the wider South Hams.
Accommodation:
The front door opens from the parking area to a small landing with stairs down into the open-plan living area. The kitchen is well equipped with an electric oven and gas hob as well as a dishwasher, fridge, and microwave. At the rear of the kitchen is a utility room with a washing machine, tumble dryer, and freezer, as well as stairs down to the bedrooms, bathroom and garden.
In dining area comfortably seats six, while the living area includes a log burner, sofas, TV and additional window seating to take advantage of the unspoilt views out towards the mouth of the river and towards Kingswear.
Stairs from the kitchen take you down to the ground-floor hallway with access to the garden. Here, you'll find the family bathroom with a bath and overhead shower. The master bedroom overlooking the garden has a double bed and built-in space for clothes.
The single bedroom is accessed both from the master bedroom and the second staircase in the living area. The third bedroom at the front has excellent views from its dual-aspect windows.
There's central heating throughout, as well as a wood-burning stove (guests need to supply their own logs)
Outside:
There is a covered patio area with a built-in BBQ and garden furniture, as well as a small grassy lawn that truly makes the most of the views. The garden is beautifully presented with mature shrubs and climbing plants and is the perfect spot to relax and watch boats come and go.
Parking:
At the front of the property is a parking bay for one medium size car. Longer vehicles may hang over the parking bay onto the pavement.
Nearby:
It is possible to get to the town centre via School Steps or via Crowthers Hill, It’s about a 5-minute walk down (but a bit longer on the way back up) In Dartmouth you will find a selection of shops and restaurants as well as pubs, cafes and galleries. On the embankment, you will find ferries to Kingswear, or a longer walk will take you to the South West Coast Path, which runs out the mouth of the river past Dartmouth Castle. Blackpool Sands is the closest beach, a 5-minute drive away in the village of Stoke Fleming.
Availability:
In the peak season (May, June, July, and August), we need to keep to a Friday changeover and a minimum stay of 7 nights' stay. However, please do contact us with any requests you may have, and we will accommodate where possible, especially for bookings at late notice.
Outside the peak season, we don't need to keep to a Friday changeover and do offer short breaks.
Unfortunately, due to the layout of the property, we do not feel the property is suitable for children under 5.
Key Features
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Log Burner
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Onsite Parking
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Town Centre
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Friday Changeover
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River View
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Garden
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Patio Garden
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Sea View
Key Contents
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Freezer
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Hob
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Linen and Towels Provided
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Pots and Pans
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Washing Machine
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Cutlery and Crockery
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Fridge
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Iron & Ironing Board
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Microwave
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Toaster
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Dishwasher
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Hair Dryer
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Kettle
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Oven
Dartmouth is a town steeped in maritime history, from the castle at the mouth of the river that has stood for over 600 years to the cobbled quayside at Bayards Cove where the Mayflower was made ship-shape before its voyage from Plymouth to America in the 1600s, up to the imposing Britannia Royal Naval College overlooking the town, defending the nation's seas since the early 1900s.
Dartmouth's renowned variety of shops and restaurants are on your doorstep, including breakfast and brunch hotspot Café Alf Resco - a hit with locals and visitors alike. At Bayards Cove, see where final repairs were made to the Mayflower before she set sail from Plymouth and onto America. On the riverside, you're spoilt for choice for seafood dining and drinks while you watch the boats drift along the river. There are also fast, frequent ferries, leisurely boat rides, and not forgetting the steam train from Kingswear and its romantic route along the valley shoreline and onto Totnes and Torbay.
Dining Out
Vibrant cafés and delis, cosy inns, and sublime seafood - all within walking distance - including TV chef Mitch Tonks' go-to restaurants, ‘The Seahorse’ and ‘Rockfish’. Local favourites include Kendrick’s and Taylor's in the town centre, as well as hearty pub meals at The Floating Bridge and historic The Dartmouth Arms. The Sportsman’s Arms, as you head out of town, is a favourite for a Sunday carvery. The surrounding villages also have culinary gems, such as the Laughing Monk in Strete, and Radius 7 in Stoke Fleming.
Shopping
Individual and independent; quaint meets quality - browsing Dartmouth’s locally run stores is a treat. From bespoke jewellery to designer fashion, eye-catching artworks and stylish boutiques. Venture into Foss Street and lose yourself in its variety - you’re bound to come away with a memento of your stay.
Towns to explore
The eclectic market town of Totnes is 14 miles from Dartmouth. Reach it by road or river to enjoy its broad mix of shops and restaurants (especially for some tasty, inventive, vegetarian and vegan cuisine). From Totnes, the English Riviera is easily accessible (including the steam train to Paignton). Torbay offers golden beaches, exhilarating sea sports, and quaint fishing port tranquillity. Head inland to Buckfastleigh to get hands-on learning about the animals at Pennywell Farm. Cute and colourful, Buckfast Butterflies and otter sanctuary is a must-see. And there’s another picturesque steam railway.
Further afield, the picturesque resort town of Salcombe is 20 miles away - its golden beaches and clear waters make for perfect lazy days, and are superb for sailing.
Local places of interest
The striking Dartmouth Castle sits at the mouth of the river. Learn how Dartmouth's first coastal line of defence kept the port safe from enemy ships and pirates.
The grand former holiday estate of the world's greatest crime writer - Agatha Christie - is open during the summer months. Explore the resplendent gardens and the magnificent house. Reach it by ferry or steam train from Dartmouth.
Tours and tastings of the award-winning Sharpham Wines and cheeses make for a mouth-watering excursion - now newly relocated to their Sandridge Barton vineyard - but be sure to book in advance.
The Woodlands Family Theme Park, just outside Dartmouth, is Devon's largest theme park, with rides, slides, as well as indoor and outdoor play. It's a year-round family favourite.
If you're tempted to learn sailing, Marshalls Sailing School in Dittisham offers sailing and stand-up paddle boarding lessons to people of all levels in a quiet part of the river just upstream from Dartmouth.
Beaches and Walks
There are superb beaches close to hand. Blackpool Sands is a 10-minute drive from Dartmouth. This Blue Flag award-winning sand and shingle beach is great for swimming. There's also a café, shop, as well as canoe and paddleboard hire. Slapton Sands (5 miles from Dartmouth) stretches out across three miles of shoreline, helpfully laid out with three car parks and WC facilities. Behind Slapton Sands, you can also take a tranquil walk through Slapton Ley.
For a more-adventurous ramble, the Dart Valley Trail is a 10-mile circular walk up and down the Dart, with crossings at Dittisham and Dartmouth. And one of the world’s longest and most-popular trails - the South West Coast Path - can be picked up by Dartmouth Castle with a choice of wonderful walks along this great stretch of coastline.
"The location is perfect and the view across the river is lovely, either from the living room or the nice little garden. " - Nelson - June 2023
"We have stayed here before ao knew what to expect. The views are out of this world! and the parking is such a massive bonus. We have stayed in dartmouth numerous times so we know above town is up steps but that is why you get the views. Garden is a bonus too :) The house was clean and comfortable although could probably do with a bit of a refurb. But we would book to stay here again! Thanks for a great week!" Ross - August 2022
"School steps is located above town with views out over River Dart, which is the highlight of the property. Great location close to town however it is all uphill or up steps so worth noting. Parking is outside but really tight for a family car. It has an outside area also which is great. Overall we enjoyed our stay however if it’s modern you are after this is not for you, definitely more olde worlde decor but great space and views. Stairs inside are also quite steep but all the workouts going up the steps mean more cream teas!! " - Grainne June 2022
"The position of the property is on a steep hill and steep staircases inside the property. This is our second visit and therefore we were aware of this. The property is clean and comfortable but in need of some TLC .eg new bedding and fridge , both in poor condition and could be easily improved. But love the views and character of the old place ." - Zena - September 2021
"Although in need of some maintenance and a refurbishment, it has a quirky charm, great views, good outdoor space and a parking space. We really enjoyed our stay! The parking space is very tight, ok for a small car but a struggle for anything bigger." - Neil - August 2021
"Very nice place, beautiful cottage in a lovely location with a stunning garden, very friendly hosts and would definitely come again!" - Martha - July 2021
"The view from the cottage is amazing, the selling point, thankful for the parking spot, although no big car would fit in and need to be fit for the hill!! BUT loved it and would return Lovely to sit & chill in the garden" - Trace - July 2021
“Great views over sunny Dartmouth. Once we’d parked up (my Ford Focus fitted the space but at an angle), we decided not to use the car. The road up is steep and narrow but not busy so we didn’t meet anyone when arriving or departing, thankfully. There are fantastic views from the lounge and twin bedroom. The kitchen is generally well equipped; the beds were comfortable and the bath and shower both efficient. We sat in the garden too.” Liz – 13-20 September 2019
“After a long drive from Ipswich we arrived to this lovely house with a stunning view!! We certainly made use of the corner table and chairs each evening!! – all in all a good holiday” Gillian, Richard, Calum, Wilma and Dave – 16-23 August 2019
“Great location & spectacular views! Quirky house that has all you need, parking keeps you on your toes as Above Town tight but I managed in my Q5. Highly recommended, get fit for the steps down to & back from Town but you’re on the front in 5 mins… All in all spending tiem with family was what was important and this house made it extra special – thank you.” Derek, Helen, Evie and Marcus – 9-16 August 2019
“Enjoyed a great week in Dartmouth after several years holidaying elsewhere in the UK and abroad. We have stayed in Dartmouth before, but not in such a central location with easy access (albeit 113 steps) to the town. The reward for this climb were the fantastic views from this upside down property. We could have spent many hours watching the movement of boats on the river, the crossing of both the lower and passenger ferries, and just enjoying the vista. The property is well equipped and functional, although only one toilet in the bathroom could have been more problematic. Access between two of the bedrooms and the bathroom did involve climbing the stairs and then descending another flight, but wasn’t an issue for our teenagers. We’ve always found lots to do in and around Dartmouth and after parking our car at the property we didn’t use it during the week. This did have something to do with the steep ascent, narrow road and difficult turning options, but we utilised the local ferries and buses.” Burgess – 2-9 August 2019
“Stunning view from the house and garden. The house and garden have a wonderful view of the Dart and out to sea. It is a real bonus to have both a garden and a car parking space!” Jane – 5-12 July 2019
“Loved the quirkiness of the house and the children enjoyed the two staircases (7 & 9 years old). Enjoyed our stay” The Campbells – 25-28 May 2019
“Its a long drive from St Albans but well worth it. Had a few problems finding the house but, once here, loved it! The view is superb. The walk down to the river and back is a bit of a challenge! Found Dartmouth to be lovely – excellent weather, lots to see and places to visit. Will happily come again.” Jim and Theresa – 17-24 May 2019
“The views over the River Dart from this house are just amazing. The light constantly changes, so it’s never the same twice. Our kids loved this upside down house: front door in the roof and their bedrooms 2 flights of stairs down. It’s very handy for walking into Dartmouth town (if you don’t mind the steps back up): lots of lovely shops, cafes, pubs & restaurants to visit.” Andrew – May 2019
Dartmouth is a town steeped in maritime history, from the castle at the mouth of the river that has stood for over 600 years to the cobbled quayside at Bayards Cove where the Mayflower was made ship-shape before its voyage from Plymouth to America in the 1600s, up to the imposing Britannia Royal Naval College overlooking the town, defending the nation's seas since the early 1900s.
Dartmouth's renowned variety of shops and restaurants are on your doorstep, including breakfast and brunch hotspot Café Alf Resco - a hit with locals and visitors alike. At Bayards Cove, see where final repairs were made to the Mayflower before she set sail from Plymouth and onto America. On the riverside, you're spoilt for choice for seafood dining and drinks while you watch the boats drift along the river. There are also fast, frequent ferries, leisurely boat rides, and not forgetting the steam train from Kingswear and its romantic route along the valley shoreline and onto Totnes and Torbay.
Dining Out
Vibrant cafés and delis, cosy inns, and sublime seafood - all within walking distance - including TV chef Mitch Tonks' go-to restaurants, ‘The Seahorse’ and ‘Rockfish’. Local favourites include Kendrick’s and Taylor's in the town centre, as well as hearty pub meals at The Floating Bridge and historic The Dartmouth Arms. The Sportsman’s Arms, as you head out of town, is a favourite for a Sunday carvery. The surrounding villages also have culinary gems, such as the Laughing Monk in Strete, and Radius 7 in Stoke Fleming.
Shopping
Individual and independent; quaint meets quality - browsing Dartmouth’s locally run stores is a treat. From bespoke jewellery to designer fashion, eye-catching artworks and stylish boutiques. Venture into Foss Street and lose yourself in its variety - you’re bound to come away with a memento of your stay.
Towns to explore
The eclectic market town of Totnes is 14 miles from Dartmouth. Reach it by road or river to enjoy its broad mix of shops and restaurants (especially for some tasty, inventive, vegetarian and vegan cuisine). From Totnes, the English Riviera is easily accessible (including the steam train to Paignton). Torbay offers golden beaches, exhilarating sea sports, and quaint fishing port tranquillity. Head inland to Buckfastleigh to get hands-on learning about the animals at Pennywell Farm. Cute and colourful, Buckfast Butterflies and otter sanctuary is a must-see. And there’s another picturesque steam railway.
Further afield, the picturesque resort town of Salcombe is 20 miles away - its golden beaches and clear waters make for perfect lazy days, and are superb for sailing.
Local places of interest
The striking Dartmouth Castle sits at the mouth of the river. Learn how Dartmouth's first coastal line of defence kept the port safe from enemy ships and pirates.
The grand former holiday estate of the world's greatest crime writer - Agatha Christie - is open during the summer months. Explore the resplendent gardens and the magnificent house. Reach it by ferry or steam train from Dartmouth.
Tours and tastings of the award-winning Sharpham Wines and cheeses make for a mouth-watering excursion - now newly relocated to their Sandridge Barton vineyard - but be sure to book in advance.
The Woodlands Family Theme Park, just outside Dartmouth, is Devon's largest theme park, with rides, slides, as well as indoor and outdoor play. It's a year-round family favourite.
If you're tempted to learn sailing, Marshalls Sailing School in Dittisham offers sailing and stand-up paddle boarding lessons to people of all levels in a quiet part of the river just upstream from Dartmouth.
Beaches and Walks
There are superb beaches close to hand. Blackpool Sands is a 10-minute drive from Dartmouth. This Blue Flag award-winning sand and shingle beach is great for swimming. There's also a café, shop, as well as canoe and paddleboard hire. Slapton Sands (5 miles from Dartmouth) stretches out across three miles of shoreline, helpfully laid out with three car parks and WC facilities. Behind Slapton Sands, you can also take a tranquil walk through Slapton Ley.
For a more-adventurous ramble, the Dart Valley Trail is a 10-mile circular walk up and down the Dart, with crossings at Dittisham and Dartmouth. And one of the world’s longest and most-popular trails - the South West Coast Path - can be picked up by Dartmouth Castle with a choice of wonderful walks along this great stretch of coastline.
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