[ Photo Blog #46 ]
Map of South Devon, England, showing the River Dart and Dartmouth
Dartmouth is a historic South Devonshire town situated where the beautiful River Dart meets the sea. It has become a famous tourist destination, but it has a long history, mainly associated with its position as a deep-water port for sailing vessels, giving them easy access to the English Channel. As far back as the Twelfth Century the port was used as the sailing point for the Crusades of 1147 and 1190. Since the reign of Edward II, Dartmouth has been the home of the Royal Navy. The town was twice surprised and sacked in the 14th and 15th centuries during the Hundred Years’ War. Following this, the narrow mouth of the estuary was closed every night with a great chain. To protect the town, Dartmouth Castle and Kingswear Castle were built on opposite banks of the river entrance. The Britannia Royal Naval College is located on the hill overlooking the town and has been training Officers of the Royal Navy since 1863.
The River Dart – Looking eastwards from the town
Dartmouth – The Quay
The Royal Naval College overlooks the town
The River Dart Passenger Ferry crossing between Dartmouth and Kingswear on the opposite bank
Dartmouth Castle at the mouth of the river on the west bank
The car ferry crossing close to the river mouth
View towards the river mouth and the English Channel
Cruise ship anchored in the deep water of the River Dart
View of Kingswear across the river from Dartmouth, with the ruins of Bayards Castle in the foreground
View from the South Embankment towards the mouth of the River Dart
Roland's Ragbag 