English Heritage Properties and Gardens

English Heritage exists to protect and promote England’s spectacular historic environment and ensure that its past is researched and understood. English Heritage is an executive non-departmental public body of the British Government with a broad remit to manage the historic environment and advise the relevant Secretary of State.

English Heritage manages a number of sites and properties in Devon. We have selected a few here in South Devon within easy reach of Sandays that might be of interest during a holiday in Dawlish Warren. For more information about opening times and special events throughout the year, please visit the English Heritage website.

Please note that the driving times given to these English Heritage properties are approximate and may be longer at busy times of day. Please check exact locations and get directions from the English Heritage website.

Totnes Castle

If visiting Berry Pomeroy then you will be just a couple of miles from Totnes and another property managed by English Heritage: Totnes castle. This distinctive landmark is a classic Norman motte and bailey castle with sweeping views across the rooftops to the River Dart.

Totnes Castle , English Heritage

Bayard’s Cove Fort & Dartmouth Castle

Both of these English Heritage properties are located in Dartmouth. Dartmouth is a drive of aproximately 60 – 90 mins from Sandays but there are alternative routes using a combination of trains and ferry. Bayard’s Cove Fort was built in the early 16th century by the townspeople of Dartmouth to protect the town quay, it controls the narrowest point of the channel at the entrance to Dartmouth harbour. Dartmouth castle is one of the most picturesquely-sited fortresses in England and has guarded the narrow entrance of the Dart estuary for 600 years. As would be expected English Heritage provide all that is necessary for a fascinating visit to both places and they are a must for anyone interested in the history of Dartmouth. It is also possible to combine a visit to Dartmouth Castle with a very scenic circular walk along the coast path and /or Gallant’s Bower for amazing 360 degree views across the Dartmouth estuary and inland.

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Kirkham House

Kirkham House is in the centre of Paignton, which is 35 minute’s on the train from Sandays. 

Kirkham house is a medieval stone house, now strangely out of place in its setting. Meticulously maintained and researched by English Heritage, and opened to the public with the help of the Paignton Heritage Society, it is well worth a visit.

A visit to Kirkham  House can be combined with other interesting buildings or just enjoying some time spent in the seaside town of Paignton.