Everything you Need to Know about South Pool
Location Guide to South Pool, South Devon:
Discovering one of South Devon’s best-kept secrets…
Tucked away on the wooded banks of a tranquil creek lies the delightful parish of South Pool.
Here, in the heart of the South Hams, you’ll be able to enjoy blissful days and quiet, starry nights disturbed only by the gentle low of cows, the odd leaping mullet, and the occasional owl’s hoot.
A scene from this thatched cottage village would befit any chocolate box or postcard, such is its timeless character and charm. Life here has its own dulcet pace, ebbing and flowing with the tides and seasons: rush hour is a family of ducklings crossing the old ford.
Toad Hall Cottages has an exclusive list of South Pool holiday cottages, tailor-made for romantic retreats, family escapes, gatherings of friends and dog-friendly getaways.
Whilst You’re Here…
The Millbrook Inn remains the social hub of the village, an award-winning hostelry on the edge of the creek renowned for its sumptuous menu full of pub classics and its ample range of local ales and fine wines. Sit back, admire the gorgeous views from the pretty pub garden of this popular (but lesser-known) yachtsman’s haunt.
South Pool is surrounded by enchanting countryside and coastal walks; you can easily pick up the South West Coast Path and follow the sandy shores to the majestic clifftops of Portlemouth Down where the trail weaves and undulates towards Prawle Point, Devon’s southernmost headland. Further inland lies Charleton Marsh – a spectacular nature reserve – and the sleepy shores of Frogmore Creek.
The picturesque harbour town of Kingsbridge – with its bustling markets and fore street – is within easy driving distance, while the historic port of Salcombe is only a scenic ferry trip away.
Things to Do Near South Pool…
Exploring the serene backwaters of the South Hams, Singing Paddles offers guided canoe tours and wildlife discovery days. Scout the hidden shores around the Salcombe-Kingsbridge Estuary and the secret wends of Bowcombe Creek, learning all about the area’s fascinating natural and maritime history as you paddle – an exciting day out the whole family will enjoy.
It’s the fastest growing watersport in the UK, a chance to glide along the waterways at your leisure. Based at the Crabshell Inn at the head of the Kingsbridge Estuary, Waterborn is made up of a team of qualified stand up paddleboard (SUP) instructors on hand to lead groups of paddlers up and down this tranquil estuary. Learn the manoeuvres, trim the tides, you can even enjoy a soulful dose of SUP yoga!
Located at the top of Kingsbridge’s historic Fore Street, The Cookworthy Museum offers a unique glimpse back into the town’s fascinating past. Enjoy riveting displays, time walks and special exhibitions when you pay a visit to this popular local attraction named after one of Kingsbridge’s most famous sons, William Cookworthy, discoverer of china clay.
It’s all aboard the Kingsbridge Miniature Railway for a chuffing good trip along the town’s iconic and flowerful promenade. Experience the sights and sounds of Kingsbridge Harbour when you chug along the sun-dappled track to enjoy one of the district’s happiest journeys and most sought-after tickets… a guaranteed winner with the kiddiewinks!
Explore the stunning estuary waters on board the Rivermaid ferryboat as it cruises the creeks and coastal waters. During the summer months, this popular service offers safe passage between the neighbouring harbour towns of Kingsbridge and Salcombe, while also running bespoke trips taking in some of the region’s most beautiful coastal stretches.
Best Beaches Near South Pool…
When you book a stay at one of Toad Hall’s adorable holiday cottages in South Pool, you’ll find yourselves surrounded by some of the region’s most beautiful beaches.
Follow the local trails down holloways and green lanes to the golden shores of East Portlemouth to discover a series of soft, sandy coves lapped by the sparkling waters that ebb and flow past Salcombe Harbour.
A short trip by ferryboat takes you to the pretty seaside town of Salcombe, one of the UK’s most desirable holiday locations and home to two gorgeous twin beaches, South Sands and North Sands. Further along the headland lies the timeless fishing village of Hope Cove, setting for a pair of the region’s most popular shores, before the peninsula winds its way to the gleaming waters of Bigbury Bay and the crystal clear surf that bucks and barrels the surfers who flock to Bantham Beach.
Places to Eat In and Around South Pool…
From pretty pub gardens and waterside inns, to adorable countryside tearooms and fine dining restaurants, when it comes to eating out near South Pool, you’ll be spoilt for choice…
Where better place to start than South Pool’s friendly village pub. The Millbrook Inn boasts a charming creekside setting with an inviting menu to match. It’s the perfect venue for a refreshing libation after your local scenic stroll or a hearty evening meal (with all the trimmings) following your latest holiday excursion.
The neighbouring market town of Kingsbridge is home to a selection of handsome pubs and eateries, and none more so than the Crabshell Inn. This popular waterside pub is a lovely place to gather after your day’s adventures. Follow the festoon lights along the promenade to discover more of the town’s dining venues which include: the award-winning Maha-Bharat renowned for its Bengali and Indian cuisine, the exotic flavours of Café Asia, the cordon bleu of Twenty Seven by Jamie Rogers, and the intimate tapas-style of The Old Bakery.
Salcombe, too, is full of characterful taverns and lovely bistros found tucked away down cobbled lanes and lining the historic harbour. The Ferry Inn is one of the oldest pubs in the county and sits right at the water’s edge, while the Victoria Inn is a lovely sailor’s hideaway full of cosy alcoves and quiet corners. Follow Cliff Road as it winds its way towards the sugar-soft shores of North Sands beach and The Winking Prawn, a shabby chic beachside bistro, while the ‘chalet-style’ saloon and restaurant known as the Island Street Bar & Grill remains one of the town’s most ‘hip ‘n’ happening’ venues.
Other local hidden gems include; the incredible views of the Oceans Restaurant on Bolberry Down, the ample and exquisite menu of the Bear & Blacksmith found in the neighbouring village of Chillington, the ever-vibrant seaside café known as ‘The Beachhouse’ on the dunes of South Milton Sands, and Britannia @ The Beach’s quirky beach-shack bistro set in the charming coastal village of Beesands…told you you’d be spoilt for choice!
Annual Summer Events…
The South Hams social calendar remains action-packed, anything from fetes and festivals to regattas and galas. Here are a few events to look out for if you’re planning a visit to the secluded, scenic parish of South Pool…
Salcombe Crab Festival (May)
Foodies and gastronomes love this South Hams seafood celebration which has welcomed some of the most admired chefs in the region. Expect a packed schedule of cooking demos and culinary masterclasses.
Salcombe Yacht Club Regatta (August)
A hotly anticipated annual regatta crammed with sailing events spanning various classes; from Lasers and National Twelves to Solos, Fireflys and the iconic Salcombe Yawl.
Salcombe Town Regatta (August)
A week of non-stop action and family activities on both land and sea, the Salcombe Town Regatta continues to entertain all those who gather along the bustling wharfs of this much-loved sailing town during the height of the season.
Kingsbridge Food & Music Festival (June)
A barnstorming three days of delectable food stalls coupled by a relentless line up of exciting musical artists, the town square provides the setting for this yearly jamboree.
Kingsbridge Fair Week (July)
Steeped in tradition, Kingsbridge Fair Week is one of the district’s most popular gatherings; seven days crammed with family-friendly activities, parades, fun fair rides, sporting contests, fireworks, live music and much, much more.
Ways With Words, Dartington Hall (July)
Engaging talks from a host of eminent writers, academics and speakers, Ways With Words is a celebration of books and ideas staged in the magnificent grounds of Dartington Hall.
Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta (August)
The seafaring town of Dartmouth can boast one of the most famous regattas in the South West, a time when this majestic port is awash with events on both land and sea.
Dartmouth Food Festival (October)
A showcase for some of the region’s finest growers and producers, this gourmet expo is a chance to rub shoulders with celebrated chefs and connoisseurs. Expect sumptuous cuisine and a muster of stalls, displays and demos.
Frogmore Regatta (August)
This merry, old shindig is held on the banks of the idyllic Frogmore Creek and is full of fun and frolics on the meadow showground and the willow-swept waters.
Take your pick from Toad Hall’s exclusive selection of holiday cottages both in and around the scenic parish of South Pool and start planning your South Devon escape.