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DARTMOUTH – PILGRIM FATHERS’ HAVEN COACH TOUR

Departure and End locations:

Hotels or transport hubs within 90 mins drive of Plymouth (includes Plymouth and Exeter)

Dartmouth - Pilgrim Fathers' Haven tour with blue badge guide viv robinson

Recommended group size:

2-6 travelling in an SUV
20-30 people for a coach excursion

Prices on application (Coach to be arranged and paid for by operator)

viv robinson is an official mayflower 400 tour guide

The Itinerary:

Spend the day exploring one of Devon’s most historic and scenic harbour towns and the stunning estuary of the River Dart set deep in the Devon landscape. Local stories of the Pilgrim Fathers will be brought alive and as the history of the people and the locations that are key to the start of their journey to America are shared with you.

Dartmouth provided a safe haven for the Pilgrim Fathers in August 1620 whilst urgent repairs were made to the Speedwell for the pioneering voyage to the New World. The entrance to the harbour is guarded by a late medieval fort with superb views of the surrounding coast and an excellent exhibition.

Explore the Tudor buildings that the Pilgrim Fathers would recognise today, visit Bayard’s Fort and Cove and discover Dartmouth’s renowned artistic and foodie culture on a guided walk with your local Blue Badge Guide.

The Highlights:

  • A full day tour led by your very own local Blue Badge Guide with private transport.
  • Inclusive river boat trip, with commentary, along the Dart Estuary. Absorb the atmosphere of Dartmouth’s busy river scene to spot historic craft and a steam railway whilst admiring green tree-lined banks and views of interesting properties.
  • A guided walk to explore Dartmouth, a jewel of a coastal town, with your personal Blue Badge Guide. Meander through historic streets, passing artisan eateries, local art and craft shops and vintage markets whilst hearing of Dartmouth’s connections with the Mayflower story.
  • Time to wander Dartmouth at your leisure and perhaps visit a14th century pub, or another eatery of your choice for lunch.
  • Visit Dartmouth Castle, a medieval fortification perched on the cliffs guarding the harbour’s entrance. Imagine the Pilgrim Fathers passing this point as they sought safe haven for their little ships away from the open sea. The castle has excellent displays very relevant to the Pilgrim Fathers time.

Other Options:

Visit the Britannia Royal Naval College Britain’s elite naval officer training college set in an awe-inspiring building where Princess Elizabeth, met her future husband Prince Philip. An inclusive guided tour tells of the rigorous training for service at sea around the Globe.