Sabine House - Grade II-listed merchant's house on the cobbled quayside

Dartmouth

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Sabine House is a large, historic family home on the cobbled quayside of Bayard’s Cove. This 18^th-century Grade II-listed merchant’s house is a firm favourite with families and groups, its history reflected in the furnishings and original features, like the ornamental fireplaces. With four bedrooms and four bathrooms, this home’s packed with character. The front-facing rooms offer stunning river views towards Kingswear and out to sea, with Dartmouth's amenities all within level walking distance.

Sabine House commands a prime position on the end of a row with simply spectacular views over the River Dart and across the water to Kingswear.

Ideal for relaxing and watching the river from the shoreline, there is always something to delight the eye on the estuary, from ferries to navy boats, yachts of all sizes coming and going, occasional cruise liners, rowers and kayakers and splendid wildlife. Its links with the Pilgrim Fathers are a major historical feature which adds to the magic.

Formerly a wealthy merchant's home offering breathtaking views from many of the rooms within, the house is thought to be linked to the Reverend Sabine Baring Gould who preached in the West Country; or perhaps the more-racy ‘Sabine Women’!

The property has been with the same family for over 30 years. Prior to that, it was owned by a wealthy coal merchant (hence the safe that sits proudly in the building). In the early days, workers would row out to the visiting sailboats, and the quickest to would stake a claim to the work of bringing the goods ashore to the town. The link between rowing and racing is still alive today, with races and training for many events taking place on the Dart.

Dogs are welcome at Sabine House.

Accommodation:

The entrance from the cobbled quayside leads into the large hallway with a tiled floor and plenty of space for boots and coats. At the front of the house is the spacious ground floor lounge/dining room with sofa and armchair, window seating, open fire as well as river views. At the rear of the room are the dark oak antique-style refectory table with seating for eight. Patio doors at the rear open into the small courtyard and provide extra light to the room.

At the rear of the house is the superb kitchen/diner; featuring a Fired Earth-tiled floor and exposed stonework, combining traditional features with modern comforts. With freestanding oak cupboards and a central island, gas Rangemaster cooker, integrated dishwasher, a Smeg fridge/freezer, microwave, pine table and chairs and patio doors to the very small inner courtyard. Guests will find the washing machine housed in the cupboard under the stairs.

On the first floor, there is a large sitting room at the front of the house with unrestricted river views, oak flooring and Berger suite, TV with DVD, Bose surround sound and log-effect electric effect fire. There are two bedrooms on this floor. The first has a Victorian king-size wrought-iron bed, antique oak furniture with mother-of-pearl inlay and an en suite shower room with a power shower. The second bedroom has French-lit bateau antique twin beds and oak flooring overlooking the courtyard. There is a family bathroom on this floor with a bath and overhead electric shower.

Upstairs again there are two further bedrooms, the master bedroom at the front has exposed roof trusses, a mural by a celebrated local artist, an antique wrought-iron superking-size bed and easy chairs to sit with a morning cup of tea and enjoy the sun rising over Dartmouth Castle. In the corner of the room is a large shower cubicle. The fourth bedroom has a double bed. There is an additional shower room with an electric shower on this floor.

There is central heating throughout.

Outside:

There is a small courtyard in the centre of the property. Though dogs are welcome, there is no outside suitable space included for exercising dogs. You can walk them along Bayards Cove or the nearest playing field is Coronation Park at the end of the North Embankment.

A Bit of History:

Sabine House is an 18th-century Grade II-listed merchant’s house situated on the cobbled quayside at Bayard’s Cove. This historic quay is Dartmouth’s oldest wharf and is the location where the Mayflower moored up in 1620 as the Pilgrim Fathers started their voyage to a new life in America.

Additional Guests

Tucked away behind Sabine House is a quaint one-bedroom apartment perfect for two people if you have any extra guests you would like to add to your party. Gulls Nest is available to book separately on our website.

Property Type

Family Friendly
House
Historic Building

Pet Friendly

Pet Friendly

Key Features

Town Centre
Open Fire
Saturday Changeover
River View
Sea View

Key Contents

Freezer
Hob
Linen and Towels Provided
Pots and Pans
Washing Machine
Cutlery and Crockery
Fridge
Iron & Ironing Board
Microwave
Toaster
Coffee Machine
Dishwasher
Hair Dryer
Kettle
Oven

Entertainment

WiFi
DVD Player
TV

There is a little beach at low tide on the cove, and crab fishing is a major pastime for young and old! A much larger beach is about a 20-minute walk to the castle, where you can revel in the history of the surroundings, enjoying beautiful walks along to ‘Sugary Cove’ before returning for refreshments at the café beside the castle.

A short walk from Sabine House is the Newcomen Museum, where Thomas Newcomen set in motion the industrial revolution. Take in the scenery along the Embankment, enjoy locally-made fudge and perhaps a glass of something sparkly whilst watching the world gently pass by.

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 spoiled 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.

Absolutely loved our stay at this charming seaside house for my 30th birthday celebration! The rustic, old-world charm added an extra layer of coziness to the experience. Each room had its own unique character, and the views were simply breathtaking. Being in such a prime location, steeped in history, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, made it even more special. We enjoyed mingling with the lovely locals and exploring the nearby restaurants and establishments. Overall, it was a perfect blend of comfort, beauty, and charm. Would definitely recommend for a memorable getaway by the sea! Feb 2024

"A lovely property in an absolutely fantastic location. Overall it is a fantastic house with plenty of space for a large family and an absolutely wonderful location." - Emily - July 2023

Our second time in Sabine House and as comfortable as ever. A great location anf very convenient. The Champagne, was much appreciated. Another great stay though." - John June 2022
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"Sabine House was very comfortable and was well equipped. The views were superb.The location was wonderful." - Harman - August 2021

"Wonderful location, great views, lovely stay. Would have written this in the visitors book but couldn't find it!" - John - June 2021

"Everyone had a most enjoyable holiday at Sabine House and look forward to a return visit in 2021. The weather was not as good as last year, sunny every day. But we were very fortunate that it only rained a couple of days - but not all day. The children love Dartmouth as much as their mother did when she was a child. We all have wonderful memories of Dartmouth and the surrounding area. The house is in such a wonderful position, not far to the cliffs, car ferry, able to go crabbing out side , sit and enjoy the scenery without having to go far, walk into town easily for any shopping. An excellent position for a family holiday." Anne - August 2020

“Fantastic house in a great location.” Tom 19-26 October 2019

“Great location in a wonderful town. Our stay was great. Spent all week jumping on and off boats – didn’t use the car once. Only one bedroom and the sitting and dining rooms have a sea view. But what a view! ” Virginia – 14-21 September 2019

“Fantastic location. Very spacious listed property.” Sharon – 10-17 August 2019

“Warm welcome – would be very happy to stay again. Great house, in a fantastic location with wonderful views and very convenient for shops, pubs and restaurants.” P Howell – 22-29 June 2019

“Sabine house is on the Dart estuary in a prime location at Bayards Cove. It is an excellent location for exploring Dartmouth and the ferry across to Kingswear. The house itself is well decorated with fantastic views over the estuary. Overall the property is fabulous and would definitely stay here again. Bayards Cove is an excellent place to eat and drink, the staff are good but you need to book. I would recommend getting a book of ferry tickets for the car as it works out much much cheaper if you go over more than 2 times. There were crab dipping buckets by the front door so no need to buy/bring them.” Alan – 13-20 April 2019

“We used Sabine House for our Golden wedding, taking our daughters and Grand Children, nine of us in total, there was lots of room, and the children enjoyed playing hide and seek. The location was superb. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay, and would love to stay again in the future” Rod – 21-24 March 2019

“Great location, easy check in, good response from agent” Deborah – January 2019

“Perfect location for a relaxing break. Nice space, set over 3 floors meant plenty of room for everyone. Dartmouth is vibrant town, the added views from the house ensured a loved mix of pleasurable times. Happy memories. THANK YOU!” L Hewer & D Brett – Christmas and New Year December 2018

“Location, location, location – Sabine house is a beautiful property surrounded by amazing views. A central spot with everything on the door step. Home from home comforts – a place you can settle in immediately. The house feels loved and the family including our four legged babies felt very happy and would love to return. Thank you home owners for a wonderful location in beautiful Dartmouth xx” The Parry-Covell Family – 22 September 2018

“We come to Dartmouth most years and thoroughly enjoy ourselves every time. The view from this property is perfect. We love crabbing so can head out in front of the house in the evenings and crab.The bedrooms are beautiful and the decor is well thought out. We love the location and how easy it is to walk everywhere. The ferry to cross the river is basically outside but does not cause too much noise. Thank you for a lovely stay – one of our favourite stays here so far” The Platers – September 2018

“Thoughly enjoyed our week here. Loved the old, creaky, spacious house. Amazing location, well equipped. We are down alot but there is a lot more to do around here so we hope to be back. Thank you! Particularly enjoyed the seal coming up to have evening fish and chips!!” Andy, Louise, Alex, Ellie, David, Tim, Matt and Sarah – 2-9 September 2017

“Fabulous location – many happy memories to take home with us! It is such an adventurous house for children (aged 2-10) – they absolutely loved it. Grown ups loved being able to walk out of the front door and sit on the fence with sun – downers” The Odell Family – August 2017

“Thank you for another wonderful holiday, we enjoyed staying in your spaceous historic house and its wonderful setyting by the river Dart. This is the fifth year that we have stayed here and hope to be back next year” Paul and Anna Nicholson – June 2017

“Thank you so much for allowing us the pleasure of staying in your beautiful house. We have enjoyed every moment. What a beautiful location! It’s the best “spot” in Dartmouth! Thank you for the port, wine and cake – so very thoughtful. Best wishes and thanks” Pauline and John -6 May 2017

“Another wonderful week in this lovely cosy house. Always something to see and do and locals so friendly. The view is ever changing and one could sit and ponder for hours. Thanks for a fabulous stay. An extremely comfortable bed and definitely no traffic noise. We hope to be back” Crystak abd Stuart – 6-13 May 2017

“And here endeth the holiday. One family , now two, in the 36th year of coming to Dartmouth. Now the house – If you revamped this house you would take away its soul! Who wants matching Laura Ashley – rubbish when you can have unique! What you pay for is right outside the windows! and that is priceless” – Peter, Emma, Richard, Maria, Rebecca, Matthew, Madeleine, & Austin – 28 August – 3 September 2016

“Amazing location and lovely historical building. Welcome gifts appreciated and enjoyed by all” – Tim and Helen and Family – 13-16 November 2015

“Thank you for an amazing stay at Sabine House. Your house is absolutely beautiful and very relaxing. We spent most of our time in the kitchen sat around the table drinking wine and chatting. The locals are very friendly and welcoming. We loved sitting on the bench opposite the house watching the world go by. We where very sad to leave but will be back for sure! I hope all your future guests love the place as much as we did” – Ang, Karen, T and Wendy – 6-9 November 2015

“What a glorious house in a perfect location! Wonderful for baby Alice’s first holiday. We thoroughly enjoyed taking our coffee out onto the Bayard’s Cove benches in the morning. Spent lots of time in the lovely kitchen and in the lounge/dining room on the ground floor. With views so great it felt like we were in The Dart!” – John, Cartlin, Gary, Fiona, Laura, Dan, Baby Alice and Merry – 10-17 October 2015

“Another wonderful week in Sabine House watching the river go by. Thank you very much for allowing us to stay in your wonderful house and also for the lovely welcome pack” – Paul & Anna – 12-19 September 2015

“Super house and location. Good walks for the dog, Bollinger. Fresh air to help 7 month old Emilia sleep and crabbing by the front door! What more could one want?” – Woodhams and Cuerdens – 5-12 September 2015

“A house full of character! The welcome pack was a lovely surprise. Very comfy beds and sofas. Beautiful position. Enjoyed watching the ferries and boats going by. Have a great regatta!” – The Cuthberts and Whites – 22 August 2015

“We had a wonderful stay in your house. Thank you! The children loved the space and being able to step out without grown ups to do crabbing. Thank you for all the little attentions – flowers, cakes, crabbing sets. We all felt very welcomed. Dartmouth is such a pretty little town – we really enjoyed the alley ways , galleries etc ..” – Richard, Corinne, Eleanor, Raphael, Estalle, Jules and Clemence – 15 August 2015

“Amazing holiday in an even more amazing house. No faults. Perfect views. Spent hours sat in the window. Thank you for welcoming cake and wine, and thank you so much for letting us enjoy your wonderful house. We hope to return” – Shannon/Settle Family – 8 August 2015

“Beautiful views and easy access to town” – Jane – 30 May – 6 June 2015

“What a lovely Christmas! Thank you so much for all the festive touches – it made our Christmas really special. Very reluctant to leave today. A beautiful house in a wonderful location so we could not have asked for more.” – Kim and Stephen 20-27 December 2014

“Wonderful time had by all, children waxing lyrical about their fantastic holiday with crabbing just outside their front door. Enjoyed the flowers, the children the cake, the men the wine, so everybody was happy thank you, Loved the layout downstairs, especially the dining room. Loved the view stupendous and my own reality TV watching the world go by, didn’t manage to read a book. Thank you for opening your home as we would never have had a chance to stay in such a wonderful and convenient location” – Ursula – 25 October – 2 November 2014

“Thank you for the welcoming flowers, cake and wine, super house! Wonderfully equipped also it was lovely and warm. We have had a lovely holiday, home from home feel. We look forward to coming back in the near future” – Norman, Shirley and Matthrew – Oct 14

“Location – what can we say brilliant, fantastic, been to Dartmouth several times but what a stay waking up to a fantastic view, birds and wildlife ie a seal which made out day, hope to be back soon” – Mr and Mrs Glover – Sept 14

“The location of Sabine is perfect! The view is stunning. Thank you for having us! We all love Dartmouth and keep coming back and the location of this house has been the best!.. We have had a very happy week looking at that view!! Wonderful! The bedroom on the top floor is fabulous, with such a comfortable bed, and, you know what I’m going to say …. a great view!!!. Thank you Sabine House.” – Tony, James, Laura, Julie, Gilly, Janet and Tristan – 6-13 September 2014

“Thank you for a lovely time. Such a superb location and spacious house.” – The Norton Family – 17 August 2014

“Well I loved Sabine. View, history, location, everything. Granny hit the nail on the head when she said, “It’s a real home”. Sabine House is a great family home and very comfortable. The kitchen is well stocked. We never tire of the views and just sitting and watching the boats.” – Noel, Suzi, Granny, Harry and Dolly (the dog) – 21-28 June 2014

“What a wonderful week! We have been so lucky with the weather for an idyllic setting. What stunning views! We have spent most indoor time in the beautiful first floor lounge. Thank you for sharing Sabine House and also for the wine, cake and flowers on arrival.” – The Arnold and Rowleys – 7-14 June 2014

“We have had a great week in your lovely home next to the water. Fabulous views of the river and all enjoyed watching the boats. Great space for two families, children loved their ‘playroom’ and we have hardly seen them in their children only lounge with the view. Recommend taking a water taxi to Dittisham for pontoon crabbing and lunch at the Anchorstone Cafe, beauitful simple seafood and best crabbing spot. Thank you for the welcome basket and flowers much appreciated by all” – Staniforth and Valentor Families – April 14

“Our second visit to Sabine house, just as wonderful as last year, highly recommend the Tapas at Bayards Cove Inn, the Crabshell at Kingsbridge and for a day at the beach Bantham Beach. Hope to return soon” – Bootton family – April 14

“Lovely comfortable house and wonderful location. Had a lovely week.” – The Howards – 1-8 March 2014

“A lovely house with great views. We enjoyed our stay very much. Beds were very comfortable.” – |The Szurminski’s – 15-22 February 2014

Sabine House - Grade II-listed merchant's house on the cobbled quayside

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Summary

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Location

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