02/05/2020
The picturesque route between Dittisham and Dartmouth is a beloved journey for many, offering stunning views of the River Dart and its charming surroundings. Whether you're planning a day trip to explore Dartmouth's rich naval history, enjoy its vibrant regatta, or simply soak in the riverside atmosphere, understanding the ferry services is key to a smooth and enjoyable experience. This guide aims to provide all the essential information you need, from departure times to booking options, ensuring your trip is as seamless as possible.
Ferry Services: Connecting Dittisham and Dartmouth
The primary mode of public transport connecting the quaint village of Dittisham with the bustling town of Dartmouth is via ferry. These services are designed to be frequent and convenient, allowing visitors to easily hop between these two delightful locations. The journey itself is a significant part of the experience, offering a tranquil perspective of the Devonshire coastline and the meandering River Dart.
Key Ferry Routes and Timings
The ferry service operates on a regular schedule, with some services running directly between Dartmouth and Dittisham, while others may include a stop at the scenic Greenway Quay. It's important to note that while ferries sail to and fro every hour, the exact timings can vary, and it's always advisable to check the latest schedule before you travel.
For those specifically asking, "What time does Dittisham leave Dartmouth?", the information provided indicates that ferries generally sail with a good frequency. However, a specific, fixed hourly departure from Dittisham to Dartmouth isn't explicitly detailed in the provided text for general public transport. Instead, the emphasis is on the service's regularity and the availability of booking options. The text mentions, "Ferries sail to and fro every hour – some direct and some via Greenway Quay just opposite." This suggests a consistent service throughout the day.
Important Note: The provided text also details a specific bus service, "The West Dart Bus," which connects Dittisham to Dartmouth on Fridays. This bus leaves Dittisham at 09:30 hrs and returns from Dartmouth at 12:00 hrs. While this is a bus service and not a ferry, it's a vital piece of information for anyone looking to travel between the two locations on a Friday.
Booking Your Ferry Journey
Booking your ferry to Dartmouth is a straightforward process, designed for your convenience. You have two primary options:
- Online Booking: For those who prefer to plan and book in advance, the service can be booked online. This is often the most convenient method, allowing you to secure your spot and review all available options at your leisure.
- In-Person Booking: If you're already in Dittisham, you can ring the bell located outside The Ferry Boat Inn, which is conveniently situated next to the Dittisham Pontoon. This traditional method allows you to summon assistance and make your booking directly. For those in Dartmouth, there is a booking office located in the centre of town, opposite Boots the Chemist.
If you happen to miss the direct boat from Dittisham to Dartmouth, there's a helpful provision: you can catch a ferry from Greenway. The service even offers a complimentary transfer across the river to help you catch your connection, demonstrating a commitment to customer service.
Exploring Dartmouth and Dittisham
Both Dartmouth and Dittisham offer unique experiences for visitors. Dartmouth, renowned for the Britannia Royal Naval College, the annual Dartmouth Regatta, and the historic Kingswear and Dartmouth Castles, provides a rich tapestry of attractions. It’s a place where you can enjoy a delightful lunch or explore its distinctive shops.
Conversely, Dittisham, described as a quaint village, boasts some of the river’s most breathtaking views. A 30-minute cruise from Dartmouth brings you to this tranquil haven. Here, you can indulge in a meal at The Ferry Boat Inn or savour fresh seafood at the Anchorstone Café. Dittisham is also an ideal starting point for exploring the river by hiring a boat and is linked to several scenic walks, including the Dart Valley Trail and the Greenway Walk.
A significant draw for Dittisham is its reputation as a local epicentre for crabbing. Families, in particular, will find this a wonderfully engaging activity, so don't forget to pack your crab lines!
Greenway: A Riverside Gem
The ferry route also offers access to Greenway, a National Trust property located on the opposite side of the river from Dittisham. Formerly owned by the acclaimed crime novelist Dame Agatha Christie, Greenway House is a must-visit. You can explore the Christie family collection and admire the impressive 2700 species of trees and wooded plants that make up its extensive grounds.
Other Transport Options
While ferries are the most common and scenic way to travel between Dittisham and Dartmouth, it's worth noting the other transport options available in the region:
- Trains: Information regarding train services is not detailed in the provided text.
- Buses: As mentioned, "The West Dart Bus" operates a service connecting Dittisham with Dartmouth every Friday. Additionally, there are other bus services connecting Dittisham to Totnes, Kingsbridge, and Newton Abbot on specific dates, managed by Devon County Council’s Public Transport Information Service (DevonBus).
- Roads: For those travelling by car, information on road conditions can be found via the BBC Devon Online Road Conditions and the Devon County Council Road Information Page.
- Airports: The nearest major airport is Exeter International Airport, with details available on its website and for airport parking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How often do ferries run between Dittisham and Dartmouth?
Ferries generally sail to and fro every hour, with some services being direct and others stopping at Greenway Quay.
Q2: Can I book my ferry ticket in advance?
Yes, you can book your ferry service online or in person at the booking office in Dartmouth or by ringing the bell at The Ferry Boat Inn in Dittisham.
Q3: What if I miss the direct ferry from Dittisham to Dartmouth?
If you miss the direct boat, you can catch a ferry from Greenway, and a complimentary transfer across the river is provided to help you make the connection.
Q4: Is there a bus service between Dittisham and Dartmouth?
Yes, "The West Dart Bus" runs every Friday, departing Dittisham at 09:30 hrs and returning from Dartmouth at 12:00 hrs.
Q5: What are the main attractions in Dartmouth?
Dartmouth is known for the Britannia Royal Naval College, Dartmouth Regatta, Kingswear and Dartmouth Castles, and its unique riverside town atmosphere.
Q6: What is there to do in Dittisham?
Dittisham offers beautiful river views, pubs like The Ferry Boat Inn, seafood at Anchorstone Café, boat hire, walks, and is famous for crabbing.
Conclusion
The ferry service between Dittisham and Dartmouth provides a delightful and practical way to experience the beauty of the River Dart. With flexible booking options and a regular service, planning your journey is made easy. Whether you're drawn by Dartmouth's history or Dittisham's charm, this scenic river connection ensures a memorable visit. Remember to check the latest schedules and consider booking in advance, especially during peak seasons, to make the most of your trip.
If you want to read more articles similar to Dittisham to Dartmouth Ferry Guide, you can visit the Transport category.