Thurlestone holds a special place in my heart and is definitely worth a visit if you find yourself on the South Devon coast.
When I was young I spent every summer holiday in Devon and most days my mum would drive an hour from my grandparents’ house to Thurlestone. We would take a cool box with lunch boxes, magazines and cold drinks and then walk across Thurlestone golf course to Yarmer beach. There is no parking at the beach and you have to climb down a steep cliff to get there but it was always worth it. We would spend our days fishing in the little rock pools when the tide was out or body boarding when it was in. As the beach faces south-west and is flanked by high cliffs it was always sheltered and seemed to have its own microclimate.
After the beach, we would sometimes stop at The Village Inn for a cold drink to reward ourselves after the walk. The village itself is a typical English country village, with thatched cottages and a historic church. It’s a small place, so there’s not a lot to do there, but it’s beautiful and relaxing.
In this guide I’ll cover things to do in Thurlestone, how to get there and where to eat while you’re there.
How to get to Thurlestone, Devon
By car: Thurlestone is easily accessible by car. It takes around 4 hours by car from London, taking the M4, M5 and then the A381 towards Kingsbridge, followed by local roads leading to the village.
By train: The nearest train station is Totnes, which has good connections to London and other major cities. From Totnes, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Thurlestone.
By bus: There are local bus services from Kingsbridge and other nearby towns to Thurlestone, although they can be infrequent. I highly recommend driving or renting a car.
Where to stay in Thurlestone
There is only one hotel in Thurlestone and in summer it tends to be quite full. If it is full, I suggest you look for hotels in nearby areas such as Hope Cove, Kingsbridge and Salcombe. Or you could consider renting a holiday home.
In Thurlestone
- Thurlestone Hotel: For those seeking luxury, the Thurlestone Hotel offers high-end amenities with stunning sea views.
- Guest houses and B&Bs: There are several charming bed and breakfasts in the village that offer a welcoming and personal experience.
- Holiday homes: Renting a cabin can give you a home-away-from-home feel, ideal for families and groups.
Granbury
- Hotel on Burgh Island – An iconic Art Deco hotel on its own private island.
- The old chapel – A unique accommodation experience in a converted chapel.
Hope Cove
- Hope and the anchor – A cozy inn with stunning views of the bay.
- The Sun Bay Hotel – Offers a comfortable stay near the beach.
Salcombe
- Salcombe Harbour Hotel and Spa – A luxury hotel with a spa and picturesque views of the harbour.
- South Sands Hotel – A stylish beach hotel with a beachfront restaurant and contemporary rooms.
King’s Bridge
- The Royal Oak – A traditional hotel with modern facilities.
- Kings Arms Hotel – Known for its warm, friendly service and central location.
Things to do in Thurlestone
Thurlestone Beach/South Milton Sands
Thurlestone Beach is renowned for its natural beauty, accentuated by the impressive arch of Thurlestone Rock on the coast. This family-friendly sandy beach offers safe swimming, tidal pools and water sports, set against a backdrop of rolling hills. With easy access and facilities nearby, it is a perfect location for both leisure and adventure. The picturesque coastline and rich marine life also make it popular for snorkelling and wildlife watching, providing a serene escape in South Devon.
Yarmer Beach
A hidden gem in South Devon, Yarmer Beach offers a tranquil retreat with its stretch of golden sands and rugged beauty. This secluded spot is perfect for those seeking peace away from the crowds, with opportunities to spot rock pools and take coastal walks. The beach is surrounded by rolling golf courses, adding to its unique charm. Ideal for dog walkers and nature lovers, Yarmer Beach offers a serene retreat to relax and explore along the picturesque coastline.
bantham beach
Renowned for its stunning scenery, Bantham Beach offers a wide stretch of golden sand with the lush Devon Hills as a backdrop. It is renowned as one of the best surfing spots in South Devon and attracts both surfers and paddle boarders. Its shallow waters and rock pools make it an ideal playground for families. With the spectacular Burgh Island in the distance, Bantham offers a picturesque setting for beach lovers, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the South Hams coastline.
Thurlestone Rock
Thurlestone Rock, an iconic natural arch, stands majestically off the coast of South Devon, close to Thurlestone Beach. Shaped by the relentless force of the sea, this striking geological formation is composed of eroded limestone, creating a picturesque silhouette against the horizon. Popular with photographers, birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, Thurlestone Rock is a much-loved landmark that embodies the rugged beauty of the English coastline. Its presence enhances the scenic charm of the surrounding beaches and provides a unique backdrop for beach and watersports enthusiasts.
Thurlestone Golf Club
Set against the backdrop of the stunning Devon coastline, Thurlestone Golf Course offers golfers an 18-hole, par 71 challenge. Its fairways run through natural coastal terrain, offering stunning sea views and a variety of play to suit all skill levels. The course is renowned for its meticulous maintenance and picturesque scenery that encapsulates Thurlestone’s beauty, including views of the famous Thurlestone Rock. A welcoming clubhouse adds to the appeal, making Thurlestone a must-visit for golf enthusiasts.
Hiking the South West Coastal Path
Walking the South West Coastal Path through Thurlestone offers an exhilarating experience, where rugged cliffs meet the blue expanse of the sea. This segment of the trail meanders alongside the iconic Thurlestone Rock, through verdant countryside and picturesque beaches, offering a diverse landscape. Ideal for nature lovers and avid walkers, the trail presents opportunities to birdwatch, take photographs and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the South Devon coast. Every step reveals stunning views, making it a quintessential outdoor adventure.
Watersports
Thurlestone, with its stunning coastline in South Devon, is a haven for watersports enthusiasts. The area’s crystal-clear waters and picturesque beaches offer perfect conditions for a variety of activities, from leisurely paddleboarding and kayaking around the iconic Thurlestone Rock to thrilling windsurfing and kitesurfing when the wind picks up. Sheltered bays offer safe swimming and snorkelling spots, allowing visitors to explore the rich marine life. Thurlestone caters for all levels of experience and promises adventure and fun on the water.
Church of All Saints
A feature of the English countryside, All Saints Church in Thurlestone holds centuries of history within its walls. With origins dating back to the 13th century, this beautiful parish church, built from local slate and shale, is a testament to the rich heritage of the area. Its peaceful churchyard, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, provides a quiet space for reflection. The architecture of the church, with its unique tower and elegant interior, captivates visitors and makes it a focal point of community life and spirituality.
Where to eat and drink in Thurlestone
There are very few places to eat in Thurlestone. If you want more options, I suggest you visit Hope Cove or Salcombe.
- The village inn – A traditional pub offering classic English meals and a variety of local ales.
- Thurlestone Hotel – An elegant gastronomic space within the hotel, highlighting local and seasonal products.
- Beachhouse Cafe – Ideal for casual dining, offering light meals and drinks with stunning sea views.
- The Sloop Inn – Located in nearby Bantham, this inn is famous for its fresh seafood and cozy atmosphere.
- The trevilder – Offer a varied menu with culinary delights, guaranteeing a delicious gastronomic experience for your customers.
Local events
Thurlestone Village Festival: An annual event, usually in August, with games, stalls and traditional English entertainment.
Travel tips for visiting Thurlestone
Climate
Thurlestone has a temperate maritime climate, with best weather conditions between late spring and early autumn (May to September). Summers are warm but not too hot, ideal for beach activities and walking. Winters are cooler and wetter, suitable for those who enjoy leisurely, scenic walks. To enjoy the best conditions for outdoor activities and the coastal scenery in all its splendour, it is recommended to visit the area between June and August.
Mobile signal
Some areas, especially on beaches or along the coastal path, may have limited mobile reception. Please be aware!
One last word…
Thurlestone is a real jewel in Devon’s crown, offering a tranquil retreat where you can lie on the beach, play a round of golf or relax with a cold beer in your hand. If you’re visiting by car, be sure to explore more destinations along the south Devon coast, such as Salcombe, Hope Cove and Kingsbridge.
