A379, Dartmouth, Devon, TQ6 0DZ
Dartmouth Higher Ferry
Historic town
Place photograph
3.6
Wildland
Under 1 hour
Time
Paid
Cost
—
Feel
Why it's Wildland
3.6A short crossing that is also a practical way into Dartmouth: the Higher Ferry carries passengers and vehicles across the Dart, avoiding a substantial road detour.
The ferry’s appeal is the river crossing itself: a quick, working link between Dartmouth and Kingswear that makes the Dart estuary part of the journey rather than just scenery beside the road. It is best treated as a useful gateway to exploring Dartmouth, not a stand-alone nature destination.
Find your way
Open mapA379, Dartmouth, Devon, TQ6 0DZ
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The experience
The ferry is a transport link rather than a destination with a long visit. Use it to cross between Dartmouth and Kingswear, then explore Dartmouth’s waterfront and historic streets on foot.
Things to do
Cross the River Dart by ferry
Take the shuttle ferry between Dartmouth and Kingswear. The operator gives a crossing time of about three minutes.
About 3 minutes
Walk the Dartmouth Town Trail
A 1.6-mile (2.5 km) route around Dartmouth’s history and waterfront, with the Higher Ferry as its starting point.
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Make a day of it
Quick escape · About 3 minutes aboard
A quick crossing
- 01
Board at the Dartmouth or Kingswear landing.
- 02
Cross the River Dart on the shuttle ferry.
- 03
Continue your journey from the opposite bank.
Half day · Allow a few hours; walking route is 1.6 miles (2.5 km)
Cross and explore Dartmouth
- 01
Use the ferry to reach Dartmouth.
- 02
Follow the Dartmouth Town Trail around the town’s waterfront and historic streets.
- 03
Return to the ferry landing after completing the circular town walk.
Verified history
The Higher Ferry is a shuttle crossing between Dartmouth and Kingswear and forms part of the A379. The operator says it saves 25 miles or 50 minutes on a round trip. Its website describes a three-minute crossing and year-round, seven-day service.
When to go
· Any time that suits your journey; check the current timetable before travelling.
The operator describes the service as running seven days a week, all year round.
Check the operator’s current service information before travelling, particularly if conditions may affect the crossing.
Worth pairing with
Dartmouth Town Trail
A described 1.6-mile (2.5 km) walk around the town’s history and waterfront, starting from the Higher Ferry.
What to look for
Take in the changing river views during the short crossing and notice how the ferry connects the two banks of the Dart.
Best time to go
Year-round
The operator lists service throughout the year. Check its live timetable before setting out; the supplied information gives different first-service times for weekdays/Saturdays and Sundays.
How long to spend
Under 1 hour
Perfect for
Families · Groups
Before you go
Practical information
Opening & access
A vehicle and passenger shuttle ferry links Dartmouth and Kingswear across the River Dart. The operator states that the crossing takes about three minutes and runs every day, year-round. Check the operator’s current timetable, fares and boarding details before travelling.
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Parking
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Toilets
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Food & drink
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Dogs
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Accessibility
The source row reports a wheelchair-accessible entrance. It does not establish accessibility aboard the ferry or at both landings; check with the operator before travelling.
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Cost
Paid
Water
River
Gallery
Place photographsKeep exploring
Around Dartmouth Higher Ferry
Within 50 km · approximate straight-line distances
