South Hams

If we say ‘The South Hams’ to you, would you know where we mean? If not, then a visit to this part of South Devon will make sure the name sticks in your mind for years to come. The South Hams is a region of rural and coastal Devon in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. To the north the South Hams stretch to the edges of Dartmoor National Park, while to the south it covers one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline the UK from Torbay to Plymouth. With a strong rural and maritime heritage the South Hams is noted for is quality local food, culture, and scenic landscape.

History

The South Hams has a long history stretching back to Anglo Saxon times, when the area was feudal estate. Many of the villages were centred around the production of wool since medieval times, and the local ports thrived on the export of local products. The strategic position of many coastal towns has meant that the Royal Navy has been a dominant presence throughout the centuries and still plays a major role in the economy and character of the region today.

Things to do

If you love the outdoors, you’ll love The South Hams. It’s a wonderful outdoor environment, with rivers, moor land, coasts and the sea offering visitors a range of activities including canoeing, walking and sailing. Heritage fans will love local attractions such as Totnes Castle and The South Devon Railway and a range of arts and food festivals keeps culture-vultures happy throughout the year. For the nautically inclined the coast has a big tradition of sailing regattas and arts events.

Food and drink

The West Country is one of the most important producers of food and drink in the UK, noted for its quality and traditional methods. Here you’ll be treated to some of the best fine dining using locally made produce. For seafood, towns such as Dartmouth and Salcombe boast award-winning restaurants, while inland gastro pubs serve excellent home cooked fare.

Something a little different

If you fancy a serene and tranquil day out, Buckfast Abbey is a welcoming and interesting monastery to explore. There are exhibitions and historical tours around the grounds, with one of the most treasured gardens in the West Country providing peace and tranquillity for the monks and visitors alike.