New Year's Day in Dartmouth: A River Town That Opens

Short answer: The Embankment along the quay is flat and free, and Dartmouth has more good places to eat per square mile than anywhere on this coast. Café Alf Resco opens at seven in normal weeks.

The walk

The Embankment

Flat along the quay with the Dart beside you and Kingswear opposite. Short, easy, and about right for 1 January.

The castle

Out to Dartmouth Castle along the river. Sugary Cove is three minutes from the castle, and Compass Cove is the hidden one off the coast path south, down a long flight of steps.

The higher streets

Behind the town, for height over the river. A climb, but the view back down earns it.

The swim

Sugary Cove is the sheltered one and the easiest entry near the town. The river itself has serious tidal flow and boat traffic — people swim in the coves rather than the channel.

Where to warm up

• Café Alf Resco — the Dartmouth institution, open from seven in normal weeks, covered courtyard, famously dog friendly.
• The Cherub Inn — the oldest building in Dartmouth, about seven tables, so book.
• The Royal Castle on the quay — window tables over the harbour.
• Dudley's on Lower Street — one of the best gluten-free menus on this coast.

Almost everywhere opens later than usual on New Year's Day, and some places do not open at all. Ring in the morning rather than assuming.

The ferries

The crossings to Kingswear are real transport here, but New Year's Day sailings are reduced. Check before planning to get back that way.

Parking

Park once in town and walk. The road out to the castle is narrow and unlit.