Key facts
- Operator
- English Heritage
- Condition
- Intact
- Access
- Staffed, ticketed
Pinpoint
Castle Rd, Dartmouth TQ6 0JN
Telephone 0370 333 1181
Possible Opening hours
Opening times change. Always check the official website before you travel.
| Monday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Friday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Guarding the mouth of the Dart alongside its twin across the water at Kingswear, this English Heritage fort saw active military service as recently as the Second World War. It's a fully staffed, intact site with sweeping views along the river, reached by a pleasant walk out from the town centre with a cafe waiting at the far end.
Worth the trip
The view up the Dart estuary from the gun battery, framed by its sister fortification on the opposite bank.
Before you go
The council-run car park machines are reportedly unreliable — reviewers suggest paying online in advance, though note it can cost more that way. It's a proper walk from town, so budget time either way.
Reviewers consistently praise Dartmouth Castle's riverside setting and history spanning from the 14th century to WW2, with several recommending arriving by boat for the best views. Limited on-site parking comes up repeatedly, including one mention of malfunctioning payment machines at the council-run car park, so visitors are advised to plan their journey accordingly.
“The views are fantastic and the castle has a lovely cafe. The car park is run by the council and the machines don’t work and online you need to pay more.”— Kerstin Simson, visitor review
Further reading
CubicFun - Neuschwanstein Castle 3D Puzzle (121pc)
Architectural 3D puzzle model, stocked by UK and US retailers.
Find it on AmazonGibsons - Castle Cutaway (1000pc)
Detailed cutaway illustration of a medieval castle's rooms, dungeon to battlements.
Find it on Amazon
