Summary
Key Features
Location
Reviews
Things To Do
River Retreat – situated in Kingswear with Stunning Views
Set in the charming village of Kingswear, River Retreat is a beautifully presented three-bedroom home offering breathtaking views across the River Dart to Dartmouth and the iconic Britannia Royal Naval College. With its light-filled interiors, decked terrace, and fantastic location, this is the perfect getaway for families or friends looking to enjoy the best of the South Devon coast.
The property is situated within an elevated terrace of properties and approached up 32 external steps from the roadside.
Inside the Property
The accommodation is arranged over two floors and comfortably sleeps up to six guests. The spacious living and dining area provides a welcoming space to relax, complete with a Smart TV and large bay window that showcases the stunning river views. The modern kitchen situated at the rear of the room is fully equipped with everything needed for a self-catered stay, including quality appliances and cookware for preparing delicious meals.
The property offers three inviting bedrooms, two stylish double bedrooms, one with a kingsize bed and views across to Dartmouth, are both designed for comfort and rest. A cosy bunk bedroom, perfect for children or additional guests completes the first floor bedrooms.
A family bathroom with a a large walk in shower, plus a separate cloakroom, complete the accommodation.
Outside Space
The generous decked terrace is a true highlight – a peaceful space with incredible views across the River Dart and the ideal spot to enjoy al fresco meals or simply sit back and watch the boats drift by or the sun set over Dartmouth.
Location
Situated just a short stroll from the heart of Kingswear, guests can easily access the local pubs, village shop, and ferry to Dartmouth. Coastal walks, hidden coves, and scenic train rides are all within easy reach, making River Retreat the perfect base for exploring South Devon.
Parking
Unfortunately there is no parking with this property. On street parking is available on Lower Contour Road (restrictions apply) or alternatively Higher Contour Road (no restrictions). There is also a pay and display car park at the nearby Darthaven Marina.
Please note:
There is no freezer but there is an ice compartment in the second fridge in the utility room
A path serving all properties in Spittis Park runs in front of the house and the decked terrace is situated opposite the property.
The property is suitable for 4 adults plus two children due to having bunk beds
Key Features
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Log Burner
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Flexible Changeover
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River View
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Patio Garden
Key Contents
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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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Kettle
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Oven
Kingswear is a riverside village on the River Dart and sits opposite Dartmouth - 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’. In Kingswear you have the choice of two pubs that serve food as well as a wine bar and coffee shop that also sells local produce. In Dartmouth, a short ferry trip away, 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.
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 Kingswear. Reach it by road or take a boat trip up the river to enjoy its broad mix of shops and restaurants (especially for some tasty, inventive, vegetarian and vegan cuisine). From Kingswear the English Riviera is easily accessible as you can catch a steam train from the station in the village 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.
Greenway House and estate, 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 from Dartmouth or the Steam Train
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.
This Air-B&B is a real find. I treated a young family of one adult and 3 children (who had never seen the sea). If only you could see their faces when they walked into this beautiful holiday home, it was worth a thousand words. I have to admit that when I saw this property, I was amazed at how airy and light the setting was. All I can say is that 4 very happy people were nearly in tears when they left; they loved the property so much. Perfect in every possible way!!Christopher September 2025
We had a lovely last minute stay at River Retreat. The house was well situated, with fantastic views across to Dartmouth. The house was exceptionally clean and comfortable and had everything we needed. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend River Retreat to others. Vicki August 2025
Such a stunning town and view. The place was nicely located and we enjoyed many evenings on the deck overlooking the river and boats. I would definitely recommend the spot again. Dartmouth and Kingswear are lovely towns that give that authentic and traditional English seaside feel. Thanks very much, Sheldene Aug 2025
Kingswear is a riverside village on the River Dart and sits opposite Dartmouth - 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’. In Kingswear you have the choice of two pubs that serve food as well as a wine bar and coffee shop that also sells local produce. In Dartmouth, a short ferry trip away, 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.
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 Kingswear. Reach it by road or take a boat trip up the river to enjoy its broad mix of shops and restaurants (especially for some tasty, inventive, vegetarian and vegan cuisine). From Kingswear the English Riviera is easily accessible as you can catch a steam train from the station in the village 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.
Greenway House and estate, 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 from Dartmouth or the Steam Train
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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