Dart Waterside Wander
9 people attending
6 places left
Embark on a delightful journey as we set out from Dittisham, crossing the River Dart aboard the charming Dittisham Belle to disembark just below the historic Greenway Mansion. Nestled within the lush gardens of this National Trust property, once the residence of the renowned author Agatha Christie and a haven for Americans during WWII, We'll skirt this property and ascend steeply through the scenic farmland behind the mansion.
Heading south towards Kingswear, we'll be treated to breathtaking panoramas of the River Dart, adorned with marine craft and teeming with wildlife. Following the Dart Valley Trail, our adventure unfolds, with the option to cross into Dartmouth via the higher ferry or, time permitting, or strolling alongside the railway track toward Kingswear and crossing on the lower ferry. Feel free to take a brief lunchtime break in Dartmouth before we resume our journey.
Continuing on a steep ascent departing Dartmouth we will pass the Britannia Royal Naval College, we'll then turn north for our return to Dittisham, traversing through farmland, scenic trails, and peaceful country lanes. Throughout this enchanting walk, be captivated by sweeping views of the River Dart, and if we're fortunate, we should be able to catch a glimpse of the Dart Valley Steam Railway.
Please note that ferry tickets are required to be purchased onboard for the Dittisham Belle crossing to Greenway quay, priced at £3.00 one way (credit/debit cards accepted). Additionally also for the higher or lower ferry crossing, the cost is £2.00 one way, with credit/debit cards again also accepted. Prepare for a day of scenic wonders and captivating history as we explore the riverside beauty of the Dart.
Don't waste that space!
Spring and Summer walks mean lots of new and existing members excited to be getting out more. Please only book if you know you can make it. Should your plans change please free up the space immediately for someone else who could attend.
Is it dog friendly?
Dogs are welcome to join us on this event but we do ask the following:
Please appreciate the fact that not everyone is a dog owner or lover- especially when we stop to eat
Remember we will encounter livestock and horses, and land owners and authorities have clearly signposted their expectation of the integrity and assurity they require of any dog owner, and their dog whilst on their farm land.
Please ensure you adhere to the Countryside Code at all times - see (Keeping Dogs Under Effective Control)
If your dog is uncontrolled and strays in open land frightening other animals or livestock, the leader is supported by the OutdoorLads board of trustees to ask you to leave the event as this is not acceptable behaviour.
New Members
Please feel free to join this as your first Outdoor Lads event. If you have any questions, then feel free to message me or go to the "My First Event" section under "About Us".
Image / photo credits:
All leader's own images taken on sunny January day - with permission for OutdoorLads to use and reuse.
My other walks for 2024:
A Vigorous Venture in Zummerset on the 01st June, 2024 -
https://www.outdoorlads.com/events/vigorous-venture-zummerset-240601
IMPORTANT! - Participation Statement
You MUST complete a Participation Statement, in addition to booking your event space before attending an OutdoorLads event. You only need to complete this Participation Statement once, not for each event you attend.
Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms, even if they are extremely mild, or who has recently tested positive for Covid-19, are asked not to attend.
What to bring
Note that the kit list below is only a broad general guide and you will need to consider the weather forecast and specific conditions when deciding what to wear closer to the time.
Water: Without fail bring at least two litres
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Boots: waterproof and breathable boots and designed for hiking. Walking boots/shoes are highly recommended for this walk.
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: ideally no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry
Hat or cap: stay shaded in summer
Sunglasses & Suntan Lotion: for sunny days, your shades and some UV protection.
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
Lunch: bring a packed lunch, or a grab a sandwich in Dartmouth on our lunchtime stop there
Food & drink
Please bring a packed lunch or grab a sandwich in Dartmouth when stop at lunchtime there. Be sure to have some snacks, fruit, and most important is a plentiful supply of water especially if warm conditions are anticipated in the weather.