South Hams With its lush farmland, wooded river valleys and beautiful coastline, including a wealth of sandy beaches, the South Hams is blessed with spectacular scenery, but remains surprisingly peaceful. ‘Hammes’ is an old English word meaning sheltered place. The climate is very mild, as the area is shielded by Dartmoor to the north and its coastline is caressed by the Gulf Stream. So early springs and balmy autumns are the norm.

Bigbury Hexdown is situated in the middle of a superbly located golf course, offering stunning views, over the Avon estuary towards Bantham and Burgh Island. A mile away is the Royal Oak, the local pub offering fine ales and delicious food. There is also a small shop, opposite, selling all the essentials. St Ann’s Chapel, a further mile from Bigbury, has a wonderful shop selling an abundance of local produce. The pub opposite, The Old Chapel, is a good alternative to the Royal Oak.

Bigbury-on-Sea Boasts an amazing sandy beach excellent for swimming and surfing and very popular with families. Two cafes are within walking distance.

Burgh Island Across the causeway from Bigbury-On-Sea, is a small tidal island with its fascinating Art Deco Hotel and Agatha Christie / Poirot connections, along with the Pilchard Inn, a 14^th century hostelry steeped in history, once a favourite haunt for smugglers. At high tide the island can only be reached by an exciting ride on the long-legged sea tractor.

Bantham Lies on the other side of the estuary from Bigbury. It is a pretty little village with a very good pub, The Sloop, and the most wonderful unspoilt beach with sand dunes, rock pools and large car park.

Thurlestone 1.5 miles along the coast from Bantham lies the village of Thurlestone, which has a hotel and pub along with a beautifully sited seaside golf course.

Salcombe Approximately 12 miles from Bigbury is a popular sailing town with creeks, sandy bays and plenty of shops and restaurants. There are boats to hire and fishing trips available.

Kingsbridge A small market town with attractive main street containing many shops, pubs, restaurants and a cinema, situated at the head of Kingsbridge estuary. Frequent passenger ferries to Salcombe are available.

Dartmoor Known as the ‘last great wilderness in Southern England’. This area is exceptionally beautiful with heather covered hills and high rocky tors, perfect for walking, climbing and pony-trekking.

Modbury 6 miles away from Bigbury is full of charm with its dignified terraced houses and enticing old fashioned shop windows. It is a hive of activity with its many shops including a pharmacy, hardware store, Co Op supermarket, excellent butcher and several gift outlets.

Ringmore Another extremely pretty village with its many thatched cottages and fine church, can be reached along the 2 mile stretch of coastal path from Bigbury-On-Sea. There is an excellent pub, The Journeys End, where children and dogs are always welcome. The walk from the pub to Aymer Bay, a pretty little cove is 3/4 of a mile away.