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Little Haven

From £772

Per week

3

6

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  • Property code: LITTLE
  • Preferred changeover day: Saturday
  • Check in: 4pm
  • Check out: 11am
  • Access statement available
  • Near beach
  • Central heating
  • Parking (see description for details)
  • Dishwasher
  • Ground floor accommodation
  • Garden or outside space
  • Nearby pub or restaurant
  • Nearby shop
  • Short breaks available
  • Tumble dryer
  • Washing machine
  • Waterside
  • WiFi

Little Haven is a delightful, detached cottage set in a stunning location right on the water’s edge down a quiet single track lane that meanders along the Salcombe estuary towards South Pool. Under a mile from the passenger ferry that plies the estuary over to bustling Salcombe, this really is a peaceful “Little Haven”. Here it is possible to escape the crowds; enjoy the fabulous coastal and estuary walks; relax on the nearby sandy beaches; watch the wildlife of the foreshore; launch the provided kayaks and explore the beautiful estuary; or simply drink in the dreamy views from the waterside terrace. This charming, very comfortable cottage is all on one level and is a must for those who love the outdoor life that can be enjoyed from this exceptional waterside location.

“A great week spent relaxing and enjoying the views and wildlife. Even Nana went in a canoe! Brilliantly well equipped and ideal for all ages - will miss the views very much.”

A small, enclosed patio protects the front door that opens into a porch, tumble dryer and provided with coat hooks and space for boots.

Stable door into a well equipped and fitted kitchen diner, washing machine, dishwasher, electric cooker, fridge freezer and microwave. Pine table to seat 6.

From here a corridor leads to the sitting room with double doors that open to the terrace and superb estuary views. Two comfortable sofas, chairs, a rug on the wood floor, a TV with DVD are provided.

Off the sitting room is the master bedroom with 5ft bed, fitted cupboards and a large picture window overlooking the estuary.

Two twin bedrooms, both with 3ft beds and fitted cupboards.

Step down to bathroom with bath, electric shower over, basin and WC.

Further separate WC with washbasin.

Steps down to the terrace on the estuary side of the cottage which is provided with table and chairs and steps from here lead down to the private foreshore (shared with the two neighbouring properties). Two kayaks for use at own risk. Please bring own life jackets. A grassy bridleway at the side of the cottage gives access to the foreshore.

Please Note: The kayaks are provided on the strict understanding that they are used at the guest's own risk and that life jackets, which are not provided must be worn at all times. PLEASE NOTE A DISCLAIMER FORM MUST BE COMPLETED PRIOR TO USE (This can be found on the travel details and at the property).

East Portlemouth is small village in a fantastic location, giving you the best of both worlds: you can enjoy the glorious golden sandy beaches and laid back atmosphere right on your doorstep, or take the short hop across on the passenger ferry to the bustling and lively town of Salcombe.

This area is a hub for sailing and water-sports enthusiasts, and we even have a holiday cottage with its own private beach and mooring if you want to bring your own boat! If you’re feeling adventurous you might enjoy kayaking or paddle-boarding down the Salcombe estuary towards the nearby town of Kingsbridge, rewarding yourself with lunch at the popular waterside Crabshell Inn, just be sure to check tide times so you don't get stranded on the mud before you get back again!

From Salcombe, pick up the well-trodden but tranquil South West Coast Path and head to Hope Cove which has two beaches, a couple of cafés and a pub. Alternatively from East Portlemouth, ramble towards Prawle Point, Devon's most southerly point, where you’ll find a Watchstation manned by volunteers and magnificent views out to sea. This is also a superb spot for birdwatching as many migratory species gather here before taking flight. If you take a diversion about a kilometre inland to East Prawle, you’ll find refreshments at the Pigs Nose Inn or the village shop and café.

As Salcombe is brimming with holidaymakers enjoying the numerous shops, cafés and restaurants, in East Portlemouth you can sit back and relax, far (well, far enough!) from the madding crowd and simply enjoy spectacular views of the water and surrounding South Devon hills.

A holiday cottage in East Portlemouth is a peaceful base for a relaxing holiday in the Salcombe area.

For a maximum of 3 cars opposite the cottage in private parking bay.

  • Included: Bed linen and towels, central heating (LPG gas), electricity (Guests must provide their own beach towels).
  • Telephone with honesty box for incoming and local calls only. Mobile reception fair.
  • Wifi-Available -but due to the rural location this can be unreliable, generally suitable for emails and light browsing. 
  • Local Facilities: Salcombe 1 mile via passenger  ferry, (there can be a queue during summer high season). Millbay beach 1 mile. Beach  cafe and ferry just over half a mile. Millbrook Inn at South Pool less than 3 miles. Pub, cafe and shop at East Prawle just over 3 miles. Kingsbridge 9 miles.

Village Farm
(Less than a mile)

Village Farm is a working smallholding, shop, cafe and artisan centre in a glorious location in East Portlemouth.  Buy meat reared on the farm and other local produce in the shop, browse the selection of handcrafted gifts in the artisan centre, enjoy a delicious lunch in the Cafe or have afternoon tea and cake in the Top Field with an incredible view of the Salcombe Estuary.  Well worth a visit. 

Village Farm East Portlemouth, Salcombe TQ8 8PE (T: 01548 843532

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Venus Café - East Portlemouth
(Less than a mile)

(16)

This branch of the local Venus chain is takeaway only but with the beach on the doorstep who needs to eat-in? Here you find quality local pasties, baguettes, ice creams, coffee and cream teas as well as buckets, spades and beach games to keep the kids entertained.

Venus Café Ferry Steps, Millbay Road, East Portlemouth TQ8 8PU (T: 01548 843558)

 

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Now closed and unlikely to reopen

April 2024


Nice little cafe right next to where you catch the ferry to Salcombe Ideal for a coffee or a snack overlooking the bay.

October 2023


Brilliant little cafe. Both guys that served us over the week were friendly, efficient and helpful.

September 2023


Beach cafe with lovely views across the estuary towards Salcombe. Friendly and helpful staff

September 2023


Enjoyed a cuppa and cake here. Outside seating. Dog friendly. Lovely beaches nearby.

July 2023


Great service and coffee.

June 2023


Lovely lunch on a beautiful sunny Sunday lunch in mid September! A welcome drink and food after a dog swim at the beach opposite. Food was lovely, yes a little expensive, however you do pay for the location, which is worth every penny!

September 2022


Excellent service and lovely food. A lifesaver considering there are few options to eat in East Portlemouth.

July 2022


Friendly cup of tea after a walk back from the beach.

June 2022


Yummy Felafel wraps with a great view of the 'goings on' on the water below. It can get busy but we sat and ate outside so it suited me well in these weird times! Not cheap but very nice for a snack.

May 2022


Great little cafe but really expensive!

April 2022


Closed by 10th September!

September 2021


Usually love it here, this year they had closed for the season Sun 5th September!!

September 2021


Very convenient. It would be even better if they could sell a few newspapers so as to avoid making a trip to the other side.

September 2019


lovely icecreams & friendly staff, only downside was that they closed early if it was not busy

July 2018


nice paninis

December 2016


Dick & Wills Brasserie
(Less than a mile)

(16)

A sophisticated waterside brasserie serving high quality local fish, meat and shellfish accompanied by an extensive wine list.  Eat inside in the chic restaurant or outside on the large terrace which enjoys fabulous views over the estuary.

Dick and Wills Brasserie Fore Street, Salcombe TQ8 8JG (T: 01548 843408)

 

 

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Really good food with lovely views of the estuary! Very expensive

July 2023


We had a fabulous take away from Dick and Will's. Very impressed. It would have been even better though if the portions had been slightly larger!

July 2022


Lovely atmosphere and really good food with very friendly, helpful staff. Beautiful setting.

July 2022


We had several takeaways which were delicious. Highly recommend.

July 2022


Best restaurant in Salcombe Excellent food good value for money and location to die for Without doubt the most professionally run eatiery in Salcombe

June 2022


Lovely meal but no drink on presentation of Toad Hall card which needs changing on Toad Hall website

May 2022


We had lovely experiences at this very welcoming restaurant. Nothing was too much trouble for the waiting staff and the food was excellent. So much so we ate there three times! Thank you Dick and Wills. We’ll be back again during our next stay!

October 2021


I ordered 4 meals from the takeaway menu, and all were extremely poor, tasteless, and bland; The burgers were served on soggy buns, the Thai Curry was so runny it was effectively a Prawn Soup, and the fish and chips were totally unappetizing in both appearance, and taste. We also had a reservation in the Restaurant for myself and my Wife for 2 days later. I called the restaurant following our poor takeaway experience to report our disappointment, and that our restaurant booking was now in doubt; their response was a very curt "sorry to hear that, we'll cancel the reservation..." . Having read good reviews previously, I was ready to accept the takeaway was perhaps an aberration (new chef, short staff, food supply issues..?) and give them a second chance. Instead I can only comment on the (very expensive, very poor) takeaway food, and the feeling that this Restaurant has greedily bitten off more than it can chew in continuing a takeaway service when its restaurant is full, and that standards have been sacrificed in the process. Avoid the takeaway at all costs, and be circumspect about the restaurant. Andrew, Glos

September 2021


Always seems to be closed

September 2021


We enjoyed a nice meal here, but it was very expensive and not over welcoming.

August 2021


Excellent !!!!

July 2021


We had a very disappointing takeaway curry. Very expensive and the restaurant did not respond to our criticism. I could not recommend this place.

June 2021


A limited and very expensive menu, indifferent service, crowded tables and ideas above its station make this a place to avoid. Bewilderingly it’s booked out anyhow for the summer already.

June 2021


Lovely location, great food. A tad expensive for small portions.

May 2021


Lovely restaurant, warm welcome and excellent food and service. Busy during peak times, perfect in October ????, highly recommend it

November 2019


A little disappointing this year. Food wasn’t as good, and ambiance was missing in the restaurant. In good weather, it’s a super place to sit outside.

October 2018


The Ferry Inn
(Less than a mile)

(29)

A lively and popular waterside pub, perfect for a few drinks after a day at the beach or out on the water.  Watch the boats go by from the large sunny terrace whilst enjoying a pint of local ale or something from the menu full of good pub classics. 

The Ferry Inn Fore Street, Salcombe TQ8 8JE (T: 01548 844000)

 

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Food and service poor on the one occasion we ate here. Food took along while to arrive and when it did part of the order was wrong. The steak in the steak sandwich was undercooked and tough. Service was poor, cutlery not provided, we weren’t asked if we needed any sauces or asked if everything was ok with our food. Unfortunately that meant we didn’t eat here again during our two week stay.

September 2023


Part of the salcombe holiday ritual, amazing views of you can get a seat outside!

July 2023


Very short trip by Ferry from East Portlemouth Ferry landing £2.30 one way - Aug 2022. Access to ferry is down the steps next to Venus Cafe. Ferry Inn is as you'd expect, right by the Ferry landing - Salcombe side. Good beers and G&T with great views if you're luck enough to get a waterside table as we were.

August 2022


Very disappointed. They did not serve food and stopped serving drinks at 8pm! Absolutely crazy, a pub that doesnt serve drinks in the height of the holiday season doesn't deserve to be in business.

July 2022


Straightforward unfussy food served with a smile. Lovely views of the water.

June 2022


Lovely pub and great food but the most expensive pint ever had!

April 2022


Best view and Gin in the area. we visited every night of our stay

April 2022


Lovely pub with amazing views

November 2021


Expensive drinks and drink choice poor. Lovely food and views. But Used other pubs due to prices and quality of drinks

October 2021


Great situation but mainly closed due to lack of staff

September 2021


Nice views but very overpriced "Pub"

September 2021


We rang and tried to book but a staff member was very abrupt and told us they were only serving food from 12-4pm. Very poor for school holiday season.

August 2021


Amazing location, great you didn’t need to book a table. Lovely outside space and we recommend the prawns! Also staff very welcoming and friendly and pub has good covid safe measures in place

July 2021


We enjoyed having a nice drink on the terrace with excellent views over the water watching sailing boats but a shame we couldn’t get a meal but recognised this was due to the difficult staffing issues due to COVID. Front of house explained the situation well and we were had excellent serving staff.

June 2021


Lunch on a gloriously sunny day with amazing views. Very busy but all socially distanced and felt very safe and well organised. Get there early to get a table for lunch. Fast service. Food was ok but would go there for fantastic location

April 2021


Great local pub with a relaxed atmosphere. Food looked delicious although we just stayed for drinks (twice). very socially distanced and safe. And kids friendly

November 2020


Lovely views, very pleasant waiters and good beer x

October 2020


What a lovely place! The staff were excellent, signing for one way systems was good. Even tho all tables were full (all distanced!) service was great, and the food excellent. Would recommend.

July 2020


Loved the view and relaxing surroundings- pain when downstairs bar closed

September 2019


Love the view and the atmosphere here but I think the food this year was not up to the standard (or variety) of previous years and the prices of drinks are pretty hefty!

July 2019


Excellent food, very friendly accommodating staff

January 2019


Great food at reasonable price and very friendly bar staff

September 2018


Was our first visit to Salcombe and found the Inn by accident. What a find ! A great place to while away an hour or two on a gloriously sunny day with fab views

August 2018


Lovely friendly pub convenient for the ferry

August 2018


Poor and slow service and the food was not great. Had to wait 35 minutes for a sandwich.

July 2018


Wonderful atmosphere and views

May 2018


Really well situated with amazing views. Staff very friendly but Sunday roast was very disappointing as was food the rest of the party had. I don’t think we will return for food again just a drink because of its location.

May 2018


This is our favourite pub in Salcombe. We had a lovely Sunday roast here. Very tasty and hubby had fish and chips later in the week which he really enjoyed. The fish was a whopper. Very filling. The beer garden is a real suntrap and must have the best view in Salcombe. The staff are always very welcoming and friendly too. Our pooch loves it here as she always get a biscuit.

September 2017


Lovely view

July 2017


Sailor V
(Less than a mile)

(7)

A great place to stop for breakfast of lunch as well as coffees, teas, cakes and other treats in the centre of town.

Sailor V 36 Fore Street, Salcombe TQ8 8JE (T: 01548 843555)

 

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Great food and friendly service when we visited for breakfast, lovely fresh food and the best fresh pear juice ever...

August 2022


Very friendly

July 2022


Excellent breakfast. Full English of course!

October 2021


Great place for breakfast or lunch. Food freshly cooked and staff very friendly.

September 2021


Always friendly service here. Good coffee. Great menu. Just wish they did more than scramble their eggs.

February 2020


Reasonable food at reasonable (for Salcombe) prices, served reasonably efficiently by staff with a reasonable command of English. It was a shame that they messed up our order, but it was reasonably quickly rectified, with courtesy. Reasonable.

April 2017


Great coffee and cakes

December 2016


Bearland Bikes
(Less than a mile)

(1)

Bought about by the owner’s passion for exploring the local area on two wheels and concern for the environment, Bearland Bikes rents out top of the range e-bikes to enjoy during your holiday.  Leave your car at your holiday cottage and get out and enjoy the beautiful wildlife and scenery of the South Hams along with the peace and tranquility of cycling.  The team at Bearland Bikes have years of experience and can advise on routes for all abilities with further information on their website. 

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Excellent customer service. Really helpful advice as we had never used e-bikes before. Great ideas for routes. We will definitely use them again.

June 2023


Yawl & Launch Hire Salcombe
(Less than a mile)

(1)

Hiring a traditional Salcombe Yawl or launch is a fabulous way to explore the Salcombe estuary taking in the beaches and wildlife along the way.  The Salcombe Yawl is an attractive 16ft dingy unique to Salcombe suitable for racing or cruising with the family, or alternatively, less experienced sailors can hire a sturdier harbour launch with inboard engine to potter from beach to beach.  Both are available on a weekly basis along with everything you need to have and enjoyable yet safe time on the water.  Sailing tuition in a Salcombe Yawl, or leisurely skippered sails around the harbour are also available in the safe hands of experienced local sailor Scratch Hitchen. 

Yawl & Launch Hire Salcombe (T: 01548 561619 M: 07966 840436)

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A visit to Salcombe to hire one of these beautiful boats is a must. Scratch will talk you through everything you need to know and then you are free to explore the estuary in style. we had a lovely day and made some great memories.

May 2019


Salcombe Dinghy Sailing
Salcombe Dinghy Sailing
(Less than a mile)

Salcombe is known for its unique sailing opportunities thanks to the spectacular coastline. A favourite destination amongst some of the best in the sailing community, getting out on the water is very much part of the South Devon holiday experience, and at Salcombe Dinghy Sailing, owners Zoe and Ross are a highly skilled, warm and friendly duo who make you feel safe, happy, confident and well prepared on the water whether you’re having lessons, hiring a boat, are a beginner or a practiced sailor looking to sharpen your skills. You can opt for taster sessions, bespoke private tuition, or RYA teaching courses with up to four students per instructor. Just make sure you bring warm, waterproof clothing with you – it can get nippy our there!

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Whitestrand Boat Hire
(Less than a mile)

(5)

Everything in Salcombe revolves around the water, and Whitestrand Boat Hire offer a fleet of self drive boats aswell as skippered mackerel fishing trips so you can experience more of the beautiful estuary and coastline.    Book a boat by the hour, day or week and the friendly staff can advise on the best beaches, wildlife spots and pubs to visit.  No prior experience necessary. 

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Estuary trip on Kirby boat was perfect. Lots of interesting information and history without being too much. Lovely views and close up cormorants.

August 2022


Brilliant company - hired a boat for the hour. The owner and his mother were really helpful and couldnt have been more helpful.

April 2022


Very friendly and informative staff. Would definitely use their services again

October 2021


Helpful staff, great time on the water.

September 2021


A visit to Salcombe wouldn't be complete without some time on the water and Whitestrand have the perfect selection of boats to suit those looking for a few hours or a day on the water; whether you're first timers or experienced. We have been booking with them for a few years and always enjoy our day beach hopping or even pub crawling! It's a novel idea using the boat to get to The Crabshell Inn or The Millbrook Inn. Some understanding of tides is useful. Life jackets provided and children & dogs are welcome aboard.

April 2021


Salcombe Fishing Adventures
(Less than a mile)

Salcombe Fishing Adventures offer exciting fishing trips in the Kingsbridge Estuary and out at sea. Choose from their popular mackerel-fishing trips on Woodpecker, to lure and fly-fishing up the creeks. No trip is the same and they regularly catch mackerel, gurnard, bass, pollack, wrasse, garfish, and even John Dory. Dogs and children welcome! Call Jamie on 07865 202133 or click the link below. 

Click here for further information 

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Mill Bay
(Less than a mile)

(29)

A sandy beach on the East Portlemouth side of the Salcombe Estuary, at low tide Mill Bay stretches all the way up the coastline to East Portlemouth beach. It has the most wonderful view of Salcombe itself and is popular with everyone, especially families, because of the large swathes of sand on which you can set up camp for the day and enjoy safe, clean swimming conditions. Parking is limited, so the best way to get to it is either by boat or by catching the East Portlemouth Ferry from Salcombe and strolling along. That way you can also nip past The Venus Café by the slipway to pick ice creams, sandwiches and refreshments before settling in for the day. There are rock pools to explore, sandcastles to build and swimming to be done, just make sure you’re careful of any boats coming in and out of the beach. Dogs are welcome at Mill Bay all year round, and it makes an excellent spot to run around with them whatever time of the year. Like the other beaches along this stretch of coast, Mill Bay makes for an ideal place to spend the day right into the evening, although it is a little stroll to the nearest facilities. It’s also a lovely beach to meander across en route towards Gara Rock or on a longer walk along the coast path.

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Lovely little beach with with views across the bay to Salcombe

October 2023


Stunning! Great car park, perfect for dogs, at low tide you can walk along the beach to east portlemouth and Venus cafe.

September 2023


Lovely quiet beach, clean beach & sea

July 2023


Lovely place to spend some time.

July 2023


Lovely clean beach with great views

May 2023


Lovely clean beach, easily accessible from our holiday cottage.

July 2022


Bit of a walk but well worth it - spacious beach, fabulous views and shallow waters.

June 2022


Brilliant beach 3 miles from the cottage

June 2022


Gorgeous little Bay close to where we were staying our dog. Loved fetching his ball in and out the water. Very pretty spot.

April 2022


Lovely beach and you can walk to Gara rock from here and along beach to the ferry crossing to salcombe

March 2022


Great beach. Bumpy access road as sand has blown across it. Slightly marred by 1-2 selfish dog owners who have left their calling cards

November 2021


We were lucky enough to spend 3 days on this beautiful beach. Fabulous place ??

September 2021


Fantastic beach one of the best in the area. Have to get to car park (National Trust) very early if you don't want to carry all your stuff to the beach.

September 2021


We attempted to drive to Mill Bay car park- not a good idea in August! No parking spaces, no turning points. We tried another day, parking at Gara Rock and asking down the bridle path. We have a disabled granddaughter, the walk down was manageable but the return walk was much more difficult. Beautiful beach and worth the walk.

September 2021


Lovely, clean, sandy beach in wonderful location with beautiful views and easy access from Salcombe via the East Portlemouth ferry.

August 2021


Lovely beach, clear water

July 2021


Lovely beach for children to play on.

June 2021


Favourite beach going back to my childhood. The road to it was closed due to a land slip in January. Talked to the workmen who said it was due to reopen November 2020.

October 2020


Lovely beach but this year overrun with people arriving by motor boat- so it felt a little worrying for kids to swim out among them,(and frankly it spoilt the view) and engine noise/fumes at the end of the day as everyone left!

September 2020


Wonderful

September 2019


I endorse all of the other favourable comments and emphasise the urgent need to make the lavatories hygienic. In fact all of the public conveniences are anything but convenient.

September 2019


Lovely beach, handy to have little food caravan selling crepes, drinks and ice cream, good quality too. The toilets were disgusting though and should have been cleaned more regularly, also waste bins overflowing.

August 2019


Great place for a day on the beach. Safe and dog friendly

August 2019


Lovely large sandy beach, perfect for young children who want to play in the strem and build dams, or play in the sea without large waves!

July 2019


Great beach

October 2018


A fabulous beach. Especially great fun at low tide for a water loving Labrador. We enjoyed our visits here. We also loved the passenger ferry from here to Salcombe. Beautiful beach.

October 2018


Beautiful beach lovely and clean. Small car park free to N.T. members. Highly recommended. Drawback no immediate café available. Venus café nearest but a trek if not mobile.

September 2018


Lovely beach well worth a visit. Dog friendly as well. Well worth the £7-50 national trust car parking fee.

July 2018


amazing beach, dog friendly, only downside is the toilets near the National Trust hut are very poor

July 2018


Sunny Cove
Sunny Cove
(Less than a mile)

(7)

Accessed either by boat, via a 10-minute walk through the woods from parking at Mill Bay, or a stroll from the Salcombe to East Portlemouth Ferry, Sunny Cove is a sandy beach which, as you might expect, catches the sun throughout the day, weather pending. It’s on the East Portlemouth side of the Salcombe Estuary opposite North Sands beach and Fort Charles, the ruined fortification that was originally constructed during the reign of Henry VIII to defend the Kingsbridge Estuary against French and Spanish Pirates. It’s a relatively gentle spot for swimming and ideal for picnics, lazy summer afternoons, and reaching on kayaks and paddle boards from other nearby beaches as well as being the perfect spot for building sandcastles. That said, the tide can come in quite quickly so make sure you don’t get caught out and be careful of the swell when bringing boats into the beach. Head there for the day in the summer or as a stop off en route to the café at Gara Rock or a longer walk along the coast path towards Prawle Point. Dogs are welcome all year round but keep in mind that there aren’t any facilities in the immediate vicinity (it would be a 10-15-minute walk along wooded footpaths) so take your sandwiches with you!

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Gorgeous, quiet and very clean beach.

June 2023


Stunning bay ,Quiet and secluded

October 2021


Lovely little beach worth the walk or paddle!

July 2021


We didn’t know about this. Whilst appreciating the need to keep things to a minimum, local information like this could have been uploaded digitally. We made 2 attempts to locate a beach without success.

October 2020


The beach and the views were superb

September 2019


A nice sandy beach, crowded on a sunny day. but access quite tricky - a long walk for children if no room in the NT car park, and then a long walk back afterwards.

August 2019


Best reached by direct boat access but easy enough walk from ferry or mill bay car park. Our favourite beach.

August 2018


Gara Rock Beach
Gara Rock Beach
(2 miles)

(12)

A short ferry ride over the estuary from Salcombe to East Portlemouth, followed by a scenic walk along the coast (around 40 minutes depending on how speedy you are), will lead you to a dramatic headland and beach café known as Gara Rock. With panoramic views of the sea, the café is open for teas, cakes, lunch, and afternoon tea before you descend to Gara Rock Beach below. The beach is a sandy cove flanked by rocks, and can also be reached by parking at the Mill Bay car park which is around two miles away on foot. The beauty of this beach is that it is only accessible either on foot or by boat, so it does have a wonderful sense of escapism alongside its rugged splendour. Although it is a little bit of a climb back up to the café, the proximity of food and toilets means that you can set up camp here for most of the day, dipping into the water as and when you choose if the weather is warm enough. Alternatively, it’s the perfect place for a pit stop if you’re spending the day walking along the coast path towards Prawle Point and Dartmouth beyond. Dogs are allowed on the beach but not in high season, so keep that in mind, and while it’s a slightly tricky beach to get to it’s worth the effort… maybe just see if you can get a takeaway brownie and a cup of tea from the café to keep you going!

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A bit tricky getting down to the beach but worth it.

September 2023


Super dog friendly beach and the children had a lovely time too, it was pretty busy but it was a bank holiday!

June 2022


VERY PEACEFULL AND NO CROWDS

September 2021


Superb location, excellent service. We were unable to book beforehand but were fortunate to be able to secure a table.

September 2021


Beautiful sandy and pebbly cove... we spent 2 gorgeous days there with our dog! Be prepared for steep climb back to Gara Rock restaurant but worth it!

July 2021


After driving an hour through Devon drizzle we were not impressed to be turned away because we weren't guests. "or you can sit outside and have coffee from the Garavan". Lesson learned: Don't go unless you're booked.

October 2020


We had a beautiful meal with stunning views at Gara Rock. The staff were friendly and attentive and the food was divine. We also had spa treatments for the group, who left feeling relaxed and radiant.

September 2020


Lovely secluded beach, dog friendly and easy to get to.

July 2020


Go there for the coastal walk. Fantastic. Stop at the hotel for a coffee, the views are stunning

September 2019


A lovely beach (although quite "weedy"), almost deserted the morning we were there, and well worth the tricky path down and the steep climb back

August 2019


My favourite beach in the country, nothing run of the mill here, lovely views

July 2019


Lovely beach. We arrived early after a steep walk down the cliff path. Had the beach initially to ourselves! Starts to get busier as the day goes on.

July 2018


North Sands
North Sands, Salcombe
(2 miles)

(17)

The first beach as you walk along the Cliff Road out of Salcombe, North Sands sits in a valley and is a sandy horseshoe shaped beach that’s expansive at low tide. Thanks to its shape and location, it’s extremely popular in the summer because there’s plenty of space to set up camp for the day with buckets, spades and fishing nets in tow for avid marine biologists and sand castle connoisseurs. The beach has a fresh water stream running through it from the top of the valley, which, aside from providing hours of entertainment for accompanying dogs and a marvellous place to wash the sand off your feet, also means that the beach is largely wet sand, so don’t forget to take something to sit on if you’re heading there for the day. Popular with swimmers, despite the chilly water, North Sands provides a wonderful view out of the mouth of the Salcombe estuary and into the deep blue yonder so, for keen photographers, it’s ideal. If the weather is right then it’s a favourite amongst body boarders or even surfers on choppier days, and it’s a great place to take the paddle boards and kayaks if you happen to have them. Dogs are allowed on the beach all year round, unlike many of the beaches in the area, there are toilets over the road and there’s a car park with charges from £1 throughout the year. The cherry on top of this beautiful location is The Winking Prawn café and restaurant that’s right next to the beach. Open all year round they serve everything from breakfast, lunch and dinner to coffee, tea and cake, and in the summer they provide a barbecue in the garden overlooking the sea. It is popular though so leave a little time to queue for that Salcombe Dairy honeycomb ice cream in the height of summer!

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A wonderful sheltered bay, the sea is so clean and lovely to swim in. Disabled access and dog friendly with the lovely cafe close by.

October 2023


Very nice beach. Very clean.

July 2023


Swim here daily when in Salcombe.

June 2023


A great dog friendly beach. Check the tide times, go at low tide, makes a fabulous beach to look for shells, relax in the sun, and walk in the stuff with your dog.

May 2023


Excellent beach for dogs

May 2023


Nice beach it's great dog friendly beach

May 2023


What a beautiful place to walk to along Coast Road from Salcombe town. The view through the trees to the amazing colour of the water is breathtaking and North Sands is spectacular. We could have sat just people watching all day. The winking prawn is a lovely place for a drink or bite to eat.

July 2022


Lovely beach which is a quick walk down from the property, food and toilets but neither used.

July 2022


Brilliant beach for all the family within walking distance of cottage. Car park and toilets nearby.

May 2022


Fantastic clean beach. Dog friendly

September 2021


Excellent clean and safe dog friendly beach. Very friendly and helpful locals.

May 2021


Lovely clean family friendly beach

July 2020


Lovely beach , easily accessible , particularly with elderly members in the party .

September 2019


North Sands is a wonderful beach great for families, the winking prawn restaurant is great for anything from snacks to a full meal stunning views out to sea

October 2018


Very nice beach for dog lovers and good café.

July 2018


Gorgeous, just stunning! Brilliant beach, fabulous cafe (Winking Prawn) and good priced car park! Love, love, love it!!

August 2017


Superb safe and stunningly picturesque

June 2017


South Sands
South Sands, Salcombe
(2 miles)

(6)

Over a (rather large) hill along the road from North Sands and around a 30-minute walk from the centre of Salcombe, South Sands is a sandy beach, with a stream running through it, that’s particularly geared up for water sports. South Sands is also accessible from the centre of Salcombe by the South Sands Ferry, a merry looking yellow, blue and red boat that takes around 15 minutes at a cost of £3.60 per adult and £2.60 for children over the age of three. You’re then greeted at the beach by a sea tractor to take you onto the dry sand, where you will find the South Sands Hotel as well as the enchanting Bo’s Beach Café. The beach café is a family run business serving all the necessities for a day on the sand including tea, cake, coffee and light lunches as well as beach essentials and toys. It runs in conjunction with Sea Kayak Salcombe who provide kayak and paddle board rental and tours for all levels. During the Salcombe Town Regatta, South Sands also plays host to the annual sandcastle competition, an illustrious occasion that welcomes all participants with enthusiasm, so make sure you keep an eye out if you’re a budding architect or artist, or potter along and take a look at the local and visiting handiwork if you’re more of a spectator. It’s worth noting that there’s limited parking at South Sands so it’s a good idea to either walk to it, park at North Sands a short walk away, or park in Salcombe and catch the ferry over. Dogs are also welcome at South Sands.

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Bit too far to cycle from centre of Salcombe for a swim, but do visit regularly. Used to stay at Bolt Head when it was an hotel, so remember it fondly.

June 2023


The new Harbour hotel at South Sands has wonderful views over the estuary and is worth stopping there for a quick lunch before continuing up to the overbecks

April 2023


North Sands better for beach but South Sands cafe and tractor/ferry are great.

June 2022


Rude staff on ferry - expecting people to wear mask on an outdoor boat trip ! Made to feel like we were an inconvenience- very poor.

August 2021


Great - kids loved the big building Site

August 2020


A beautiful sandy beach that is superb for children as you have to go out quite a way before the water gets deep. Water sports available. Access is via very narrow lanes so be prepared to reverse and parking is very limited.

July 2017


July 2023

Second year at Little Haven, we love it -a super place- please thank the owner. We do a Merlin Rocket sailing week each year and unfortunately 29June-6July 24 next years dates appear to be already booked. Please let us know if this changes. Thank you

We are very pleased to hear you enjoyed your stay at Little Haven. We are sorry the 29th June week is booked has already been booked we have put a note to let you know if this booking does not go ahead but we have reserved the dates for 2025 for you.

- The Toad Hall Team


June 2023

We love this place. We have stayed many times now. It is a very special place, with many happy family memories. We are looking forward to returning in 2024.


September 2022

Mileages quoted must be as crow flies. Too far from anywhere down narrow country lanes. Sun too low to enjoy the patio which was why we booked it. Not enough bin bags. Comfortable beds


August 2022

Lovely waterside location, beautiful sunsets. Really enjoyed our stay.


June 2022

We love this place.


May 2022

We love it! Not fancy or super luxurious, but a great space in a fab location.


August 2021

We had an absolutely fantastic time at Little Haven. It really is an amazing location to enjoy ALL that Salcombe has to offer. The access to the estuary is brilliant and being within such easy reach of all the lovely Sandy beaches and stunning coastline. You really couldn’t find a better location to enjoy the South Hams. Arrive park the car and paddle and walk for a week. What more could you need?!?!


July 2021

We really enjoyed the location and kayaks. Had the weather not been so good then the cottage would have been uncomfortable due to soft sofas and beds - a firmer option would be appreciated.


June 2021

We absolutely did. We love Little Haven. I just called to see if we could possibly book it for next May half term in 2022. Looking forward to hearing from you (and fingers crossed).


June 2021

This is a lovely place to stay. Very central to get around the area. Lovely garden to sit out in. Owner very nice indeed. Would definitely recommend.


October 2020

Great to get out on the water in the kayaks! The place was lovely and warm - the dehumidifier helped with the inevitable damp. Caretaker was quick to respond when a living room lamp bulb had blown and pointed us to where the spare bulbs were. Also lovely to have a bottle of wine and shortbread on arrival. Other nice touches included the ground coffee, dishwasher tablets. A wonderful break all round, thank you.


September 2020

Not super modern, but that was fine. The house was very well equipped and had an amazing view from patio, which helped to gloss over the damp issue.


July 2020

wonderful stay and Toadhall listed it exactly. I would imagine a well loved family property over the years. I am sure we will return.


October 2019

Peaceful and quiet, everything you could want for.


May 2019

Very nice stay as usual


April 2019

We arrived to a bottle of wine & lovely biscuits on table! The view from living room and double bedroom was breathtaking. The property is extremely well equipped. We loved it so much & will definitely return. We loved using boats provided. Fantastic location for safely playing in boats & looking for little eels under stones when tide goes out! Easy walking distance to ferry for Salcombe & beautiful Mill Bay beach.


September 2018

Lovely location and setting but would now think twice about using any property let by you.


September 2018

The view from the cottage was stunning. We loved our stay as it was peaceful and relaxing. The roads into East Portlemouth are extremely narrow, for less confident drivers this would be a nightmare! No pub in walking distance our side of the estuary was a shame.


June 2018

First time we have used Toad Hall Cottages and were delighted with the cottage and service. What we appreciated the most were all the little things that were provided in the cottage including the very nice bottle of wine and biscuits. We will rebook again next year.


May 2018

We had a great holiday in Little Haven. The location is fantastic and just what we wanted. The property is just a short and pleasant walk to the ferry to Salcombe, but is in a quiet, undisturbed spot where we enjoyed the estuary and the peace. We took lifejackets and really enjoyed paddling the boats around the corner to the beach. We had everything we needed for self catering and there was ample storage. The beds were comfortable and the house was clean and warm. We would love to return again.


October 2017

The location of this property was very peaceful. We really enjoyed looking out onto the estuary and watching the wildlife.


September 2017

Holiday was fantastic. Slightly spoilt by road closure near property which resulted in long detours but this was obviously not the fault of the owners or Toadhall Cottages. We appreciated being notified of a shorter detour.


September 2017

We know the area extremely well and knew Little Haven from the outside (though had never been inside), but the cottage inside exceeded all our expectations. It was far more spacious, private and peaceful than we imagined, yet so close to Salcombe and Mill Bay etc. The facility to keep our dinghies outside was a real perk we hadn't appreciated beforehand. Thank you - it was a real success.


July 2017

Great location. Canoes and dingy a great addition


June 2017

The bungalow was in a lovely spot, but was spoilt by the uncomfortable bed. When we go on holiday we look for a lovely area, comfortable furniture, so if the weather is bad we are comfortable. I will have to look a lot closer at the descriptions in future, very disappointing.

Thank you for your feedback, the owners have now installed a new mattress in response to your comment. We do hope to see you again soon.

- The Toad Hall Team


June 2017

We had a fantastic time. The use of the canoes was a real bonus. The weather was great so we spent a lot of time on the deck. We would love to come again if possible. JZ


May 2017

We much enjoyed the stay as usual... hope the very large lorries that are constantly passing on the road don't cause too much damage to the road which is already showing significant wear and tear .

Thank you for your feedback, the lorries were unusual for this very small road as you will be aware from previous stays as there is a 7.5T limit on this road,due to building works half a mile away they needed access at the time. These small lanes are not designed for heavy traffic and the council will be tasked with repairs should it become to bad.

- The Toad Hall Team


April 2017

What can I say......we loved our week....the cottage was clean, well equipped, with a view that was amazing, we loved it and will be back!


March 2017

We enjoyed our stay


August 2016

A very nice house in a beautiful location. We particularly enjoyed having access to a dinghy and a kayak.


April 2016

Little Haven is an idyllic holiday home. Very peaceful with beautiful views. So lovely to be right on the water and be able to watch the prolific bird life. Our teenage girls enjoyed using the canoes & rubber dinghy. Great place to stay.


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