Explore the past
Dartmouth has been in existence for over 800 years, with Townstal at the top of town mentioned in the Domesday Book. Add in the rich maritime heritage and there is a story on every corner. Many key moments in history have links to this beautiful corner of Devon, so be ready for some surprises.
A few historical facts about Dartmouth
- Townstal is referenced in the Domesday Book (1049)
- May 1147 over 150 ships sailed from Dartmouth as part of the Second Crusade
- Geoffrey Chaucer visited Dartmouth in 1373, basing a character in The Canterbury Tales on a local shipowner
- 1583 Sir Humphrey Gilbert, of Greenway, claimed Newfoundland for the Queen as the first English colony
- 1620 the Mayflower docked in Dartmouth
- Gallants Bower above Dartmouth Castle, and Mount Ridley Fort above Kingswear Castle were built during the Civil War
- The world’s first successful working steam engine was built by Thomas Newcomen, of Dartmouth
- In 1863 the Royal Navy arrived in Dartmouth
- Prior to the D-Day landings up to 485 ships moored in Dartmouth harbour
- Exercise Tiger was a secretive training operation for up to 30,000 troops involved in the D-Day landings, held at Blackpool Sands and Slapton Sands
Dartmouth Museum
An obvious place to start exploring the past is The Museum, which is fittingly housed in the Grade 1 listed Butterwalk. This is a great place to immerse yourself in our history.
The Museum may be small, but it is designed to national museum standards, displaying an extensive collection of items relating to the long history of Dartmouth and the local area.
Particular attention is paid to the town’s maritime history, as well as its architectural development and social growth.
Newcomen Engine
In 1712 Thomas Newcomen invented the first practical working steam engine. An original early engine dating from 1725 is now on show at the Engine House in Dartmouth.
BRNC
Dartmouth is home to the stunning Britannia Royal Naval College. Fun fact: it is where Queen Elizabeth II first met her husband Prince Philip. Tours can be arranged via the link below.
The Mayflower
On the 23rd August 1620 the Mayflower docked in the area of Dartmouth that was subsequently called Pilgrim Hill. There is a lovely Mayflower Trail walk available.
Bayards Cove
One of the Dartmouth locations featuring heavily on Instagram, Bayards Cove is believed to date from 1509. Nowadays it is a beautiful spot to watch river traffic.
Dartmouth Castle
For over 600 years Dartmouth castle has stood guard over the entrance to the Dart estuary and harbour. It is a picturesque walk or ferry ride from the town centre.
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