A day out in Salcombe awaits

It’s right on our doorstep, just a short ferry right across the water.

Some say, a stay at Gara Rock isn’t complete without a visit to this historic fishing town and harbour on the banks of the beautiful Salcombe Estuary.

Salcombe is only a short ferry ride away and is bursting with loads of things to do including shopping, cafes, restaurants & bars, a National Trust house and gardens, sailing, boating and watersports, beaches, unique wildlife habitats, walks and its very own gin distillery, there is something for everyone. Whether it’s a romantic getaway, just for the two of you, wandering the streets with friends or a trip with your family, it’s worth a visit.

And everyone enjoys the ride on the Salcombe ferry over, it makes it more of an adventure! 

Read more here.

WITH THE KIDS...

Paper Bird Island

Explore your artistic side! For creative kids and families, have a go at painting papier mâché animal shapes, boxes and hanging bird greeting cards in a fun and friendly atmosphere. Or sign up to a workshop for a structured session.

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Salcombe Dairy ice cream

Enjoy a true taste of South Devon. Established in 1979 in a stone shed at the bottom of Coronation Road, the Salcombe Dairy still uses the original recipe developed by founder Peter Howard. With milk straight from the farm each morning and the double cream fresh from the creamery, their ice creams are so delightfully decadent, it’s must stop treat.

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Crabbing in Salcombe

A seaside tradition that keeps children entertained for hours. Situated in the town centre, Victoria Quay is a favourite crabbing spot in Salcombe, and best of all, some of the Quay provides a small wall, perfect for smaller children that are often fearless crabbers. Be sure to check the tide times before heading out too.

Novice crabbers can pick up buckets, crab lines and nets from shops in South Devon. And bait can be found at local butchers and fishmongers. Firm favourites are raw liver, bacon, sardines, squid and fish heads.

FOR EVERYONE...

Whitestrand Boat Hire

Explore the beautiful Salcombe Estuary by water. Hire a self-drive boat with Whitestrand Boat Hire. They’ll show you the ropes, so you don’t need any experience to take the wheel. If you’d rather leave the piloting to someone else, the company also offers mackerel fishing trips. It’s a popular attraction, so you’ll need to book in advance.

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Paddleboarding

Take to the water on a paddleboard and explore Salcombe as you have never seen it before. Everything you need for an unforgettable day is provided by Salcombe Paddleboarding. You can take a guided tour of the estuary or learn to paddleboard with one-on-one tuition. It is based at Port Waterhouse which is walkable from Gara Rock, or a 5 minute drive (they have parking).

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Overbeck's Garden

Escape to a sight of vast trees, bright skies, and a boat or two bobbing on the estuary. Overbeck’s Garden is a hidden paradise of subtropical gardens. Filled with exotic and rare plants, you’ll think you’ve stepped into a wonderland.

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