Explore Dartmouth’s Two Beautiful Historic Houses
Coleton Fishacre and Greenway House are two of Dartmouth’s finest local treasures, each offering a unique blend of heritage, stunning grounds, and memorable visitor experiences. Both are perfect choices for a day out when staying in Dartmouth, whether you’re a history enthusiast, a garden lover, or simply in search of an inspiring destination along the beautiful River Dart.
Coleton Fishacre: Art Deco Elegance by the Coast
Tucked away in a secluded coastal valley, Coleton Fishacre is a remarkable 1920s country retreat, built for Rupert and Lady Dorothy D’Oyly Carte of the Gilbert and Sullivan opera legacy. The house is renowned for its glorious Art Deco interiors, and extensive subtropical gardens that tumble down to the sea. Wander through the beautifully preserved rooms to get a taste of life during the Jazz Age before exploring the lush grounds, where rare plants flourish due to the area’s mild climate and the proximity to the Gulf Stream.
Coleton Fishacre’s garden has received national acclaim and recognition, most recently being named England's top-rated garden by Which? members in a survey published in October 2025. It was also a previous finalist for the BBC Country File Magazine Garden of the Year award.
The garden paths lead visitors to breathtaking viewpoints over the coastline, making it a haven for garden enthusiasts and walkers alike. The attraction also features a tea-room offering locally sourced treats, and events throughout the year, such as outdoor theatre and seasonal garden tours.
Getting There:
Coleton Fishacre just 3 miles outside Kingswear, which is reached by the Lower Ferry in Dartmouth. The most convenient route is by car: simply follow the brown signs from the Dartmouth-Kingswear road (B3205). There is on-site parking. If you are using public transport, buses from Kingswear can drop you in at Hillhead, which is a 1.5 mile walk to Coleton Fishacre. Alternatively, adventurous hikers can enjoy scenic walking routes from Kingswear along Mount Ridley and Brownstone Road, offering views of the sea and countryside.
Greenway House: Agatha Christie’s Riverside Retreat
Greenway House is a beautifully preserved holiday home previously owned by famed author Agatha Christie and her family. Set high above the River Dart, Greenway offers not only a glimpse into the writer’s private world, filled with Christie family collections and memorabilia, but also unrivalled river and woodland views. The gardens here are wild and romantic, with winding paths leading to the riverbank, magnolias, camellias, and a treasured walled garden.
Inside, visitors can discover Christie’s relics as well as rooms left much as she would have known them, giving a light-hearted insight into her life beyond the books. The site also includes a café and regularly hosts events such as literary talks and themed tours.
Getting There:
Greenway is famous for its range of unusual arrival options, all part of the adventure:
- By Car: Greenway has pre-booked parking only, so booking a spot in advance is essential. Set your satnav to the Greenway postcode, and if you are in Dartmouth head to the Higher Ferry to cross the river. Because spaces are limited, many prefer to arrive by foot, bike, or boat for a more relaxing and sustainable visit.
- By Ferry: You can either take the Greenway Ferry from Dartmouth, which glides up the River Dart for a scenic journey before dropping you at Greenway Quay. From there, it’s a lovely 10-minute walk uphill through the woods to reach the house. Alternatively you can travel with the Dittisham Ferry, which drops you across the river from Greenway Quay – you can then ring a bell for the short boat trip across the river.
- On Foot: The Greenway Walk, part of the Dart Valley Trail, takes you along beautiful riverside paths from Dartmouth or Kingswear.
Plan Your Visit
Whether exploring the dazzling Art Deco glamour of Coleton Fishacre or immersing in the tranquil storytelling world of Greenway, these iconic attractions near Dartmouth deliver both relaxation and inspiration. Their natural settings, rich cultural histories, and picturesque access routes make them essentials for any Dartmouth itinerary.
Both houses are National Trust properties, so for opening times, seasonal events, and ticket information, please see the National Trust website before visiting.
Images with thanks to NationalTrust.org.uk