Summary
Key Features
Location
Reviews
Things To Do
Summary
Beautifully placed in the centre of Dartmouth on a road which leads to Dartmouth Castle. Set over four floors, this truly special home sits just above Bayards Cove and is within easy reach of all that Dartmouth has to offer. Originally built in the 18th century and rebuilt in 1853, it is steeped in history but now affords contemporary family living with a glorious sky room overlooking the River Dart. This house is the perfect place for a relaxing time away.
Living spaces
This much-loved home is anything but ordinary. The entry-level living area is styled in maritime blues and crisp whites with a log burner and plush sofas. A modern Shaker-style kitchen makes mealtimes a breeze, while the dining area gives you panoramic views of the river and Kingswear. There's also a Nespresso machine to give your morning coffee an extra zing.
Stairs lead up to the top floor and a fabulous second living area - a sky room in the eaves with a Juliet balcony giving you even more incredible views. And, underscoring the town's maritime heritage, you'll see ships timbers in the roof, including a mast.
Entertainment
There's high-speed fibre broadband - great for watching your favourite streaming services on one of the three smart TVs. There's also Sky Q premium satellite TV (including Sky Sports channels).
Bedrooms and bathrooms
Downstairs from the living area, enjoy a soothing night's sleep in the two double bedrooms and a twin bedroom, each styled in fawn pinks and whites.
The stylish theme continues into the contemporary en suite shower room off the master bedroom and the family bathroom with a bath and walk-in shower - a refreshing start ahead of the day's adventures.
There's also an additional cloakroom WC near the king-size bedroom.
Outside
Outside spaces are rare among the close-knit buildings of historic Dartmouth, but at The Admiralty Wash House, there are more stunning views to be had from the sun-trap patio and decking as you enjoy al fresco dining in the glorious Devon sunshine in the private terrace garden. And, during the ever-popular Royal Regatta week, you have a prime seat for the finishing line.
Parking
The narrow streets of this historic nautical town make parking a challenge, but we'll provide you with a permit to park in council car parks across the South Hams district, including Dartmouth's main car park in Mayor's Avenue and the Park & Ride facility on the edge of town. The Mayors Avenue Car Park permit does not guarantee a parking space, and it can get very busy during the summer and special events, such as the Royal Regatta week (during which the car park is closed).
Pets
Dogs are welcome to enjoy your holiday, too. Two small-to-medium-sized dogs or one large dog are permitted.
ACCESSIBILITY - Please note that access to this property is via numerous steps, some of which are uneven. Please also be aware that the property is set on three levels.
Property Type
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Family Friendly
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House
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Historic Building
Key Features
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Log Burner
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Flexible Changeover
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Town Centre
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River View
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Garden
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Parking Permit Supplied
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Additional cloakroom
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Ensuite shower
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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Coffee Machine
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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 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.
"Stayed in the Admiralty Wash House for a week during Dartmouth Regatta. The town was very busy so we enjoyed being located very conveniently nearby. The house was comfy and well equipped for 4 adults and our dog and slept up to 6. The only downside was the steps! 30 steps up to the house and then set over 4 floors we did lots of climbing up and down. The roof terrace/deck was up again to another level but was worth the hike for the views over the river. We loved the sitting areas which meant plenty of space to read, play games and relax together or apart if we wishes. Thoughtful touches such as binoculars, board games and plenty of books to read. We enjoyed our week in Dartmouth" - Elizabeth - August 2023
"Had a great stay at this stunning property. The owners have great taste in furnishings . Loved it all (apart from the 30 steps ) which is good exercise . There was slight issue finding the property as our email and the download directions had a different addresses. Fortunately despite it being 5pm on a Sunday evening I could contact someone from Dart Valley Cottages . The manager phoned me back and gave us the correct address. . Would we come back 100% yes - Judes - July 2023
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.