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Dartmouth Castle

Aerial View of the castle (c) Skyscan Balloon Photography
Aerial View of the castle and the surrounding area, looking north (c) Skyscan Balloon Photography (c) Skyscan Balloon Photography
Aerial View of the castle (c) Skyscan Balloon Photography - Aerial View of the castle and the surrounding area, looking north (c) Skyscan Balloon Photography (c) Dartmouth Castle - View of the castle with the sea in the foreground (c) The Old Castle - The Old Castle from the South West and looking across the haven to Kingswear (c) view from the coastline - view from the coastline (c) View of the Estuary - View of the Estuary (c)

This well-preserved and beautifully-sited castle juts out into the narrow entrance of the Dart estuary.

Begun in the late 14th century, a defence called 'the Fortalice' was intended to protect the homes of Dartmouth merchants from shipborne attack. By 1491 it had been reinforced by a gun tower, probably the very first fortification in England purposebuilt to mount cannon.

It is said that Chaucer based the 'Shipman' character in his Canterbury Tales on John Hawley - the colourful merchant and Mayor of Dartmouth who began the first castle. Today, you can enjoy other tales of the castle as you journey through time from the Tudor period and the Civil War to World War II. Displays on the castle's 600-year history add to the experience.

Why not make it a full day out and take a boat trip from the quayside at Dartmouth, which lands you just a short walk from the castle entrance.

What are the opening times?

DatesOpening TimesOpening Days
21 Mar-30 Jun10am-5pmMon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, & Sun.
1 Jul-31 Aug10am-6pmMon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, & Sun.
1-30 Sep10am-5pmMon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, & Sun.
1-31 Oct10am-4pmMon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, & Sun.
1 Nov-31 Mar10am-4pmSat, & Sun.
Last admission 30 minutes before closing time  
Closed 24-26 Dec and 1 Jan  

How much does it cost?

Adult:
£4.00
Children:
£2.00
Concession:
£3.20
English Heritage Members:

How do I get there?

Address:
Devon TQ6 0JN
Road Access:
1 mile SE of Dartmouth off B3205, narrow approach road
Train Access:
Paignton 8 miles via ferry
Bus Access:
Stagecoach in Devon 120 Paignton - Kingswear, then a ferry toDartmouth; Stagecoach in Devon 111 Torquay - Dartmouth (passingTotnes railway station). On both, alight Dartmouth, then 1 milewalk or ferry to site
Map Location:
Telephone:
01803 833588, Local Tourist Information: Dartmouth: 01803 834224

What facilities are available?

Facilities Available:
ParkingGuidebooksNo dogs allowedShopPicnic areaEventsHazardousFamily LearningAdmission free for Overseas Vistor Pass holdersTea RoomMale ToiletsFemale Toilets
Facilities Details:
Toilets: Not adapted for wheelchair users (local authority-run). Near car park.
Exhibition: In Victorian Gun Battery, accessed via tarmac path and shallow steps.
Shop: Four steps - assistance advised.
Refreshments: In car park (privately run, small charge).
Note: Access for wheelchair users is through areas outside English Heritage's control, and a companion or helper is needed. Please telephone the site for more information.
Access:
Access to castle: Via stone and paved paths, steps and slopes. Ground floors have many steps, a helper is recommended. Narrow, steep spiral staircases to upper floors.
Grounds: The small riverside garden is accessible via paths and steps. Benches provided.
Parking:
12m from entrance (local authority-run). Disabled visitors may be set down at gate.

What facilities are available for groups?

Group Discount:
15% discount for groups of 11 or more plus a free place for every additional 20 paying passengers. Free entry for coach driver and tour leader
Coach Parking Facilities:
Please contact the Visitor Operations Site Supervisor on ++44 (0)1803 833588
Group Booking:
Car park suitable for minibuses only, but there is coach parking available in the town
Average Length of Visit:
1 hour.

Further Info

Parking is limited (not owned by EH, small charge)
Tearooms (not managed by EH). Toilets (not managed by EH).
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