Portsmouth News

3 Dart to the river

GETAWAY Karla Hall and her family drink in the spectacula­r scenery from Bell Cottage

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Confined to my garden, longing for the holiday of a lifetime once lockdown is lifted, I’m reliving the perfect summer - I’m dreaming of returning to Dartmouth.

Situated on the stunning western bank of the estuary of the River Dart, this picturesqu­e maritime town is the jewel in the South Hams crown and home to breathtaki­ng Bell Cottage the ultimate room with a view.

Our last great British escape before lockdown and - quite simply - an unbeatable holiday home from home, Bell Cottage showcases the panorama of the magnificen­t River Dart from almost every glorious window.

Bright, airy and so easy on the eye, this refurbishe­d former coach house is the picture-perfect base from which to explore the surroundin­g area and drink in the boundless natural beauty of this unique and enchanting town.

Nestled high into the hillside enjoying bird’s eye river views, Bell Cottage boasts two en-suite bedrooms - one king, one twin - both with bath and hand-held Victorian shower.

Situated on the lower floors, the bedrooms radiate traditiona­l charm, with the twin opening out onto a quaint outdoor viewing veranda, whilst the cottage’s upper floors add a fresh, modern contrast.

The open plan kitchen / dining room - well equipped with double oven, hob, fridge, dishwasher, washing machine, microwave and flat screen TV - provides river views you simply have to see to believe, whilst the top floor sitting room we christened ‘The Sky Loft’ is the icing on the cake.

Climb a narrow staircase and you can relax in this comfy, cosy chillout space with sofa and TV ... simply

l d l t th why Sykes Cottages’ customers flock back to Bell Cottage year upon year.

One of the most popular tourist destinatio­ns in Devon, Dartmouth dazzles right on the water’s edge, its ancient narrow streets lined with an array of chic restaurant­s, boutique shops and art galleries.

Whilst annual events such as the Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta (August) and the Dartmouth Food Festival (October) draw crowds, the historic town is also home to the Brit i R lN l C ll d j

OUT AND ABOUT

Whether it’s a scenic trip on the Dartmouth Steam Railway to Paignton or a boat ride to Agatha Christie’s house, whatever’s on your ‘to do’ list, make ‘doing Dartmouth’ top. Cyclists or families seeking adventure can take a memorable bike ride on the nearby Dart Valley Trail, whilst the surroundin­g countrysid­e provides an abundance of flora and forna just perfect for exploring on foot. If you prefer to drive, a few minutes’ ferry journey

th Ri D t t

Just a half hour car journey away is Brixham, home of the famous fish market and the heart of England’s seafood coast.

Strikingly beautiful and centred around a traditiona­l working harbour, this vibrant town is a must visit for seal spotting, good old fashioned seaside fun and fabulous fish and chips.

Boasting beautiful beaches, harbour, pier and its very own zoo, lively Paignton is the go-to for ultimate famil f

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 ??  ?? What a view to wake up to.
What a view to wake up to.
 ??  ?? Views from the modern kitchen / diner.
Views from the modern kitchen / diner.
 ??  ?? Bell Cottage’s hillside location.
Bell Cottage’s hillside location.

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