Dartmouth

Having set sail from Southampton, the Mayflower, with Pilgrims from the north of England, and Speedwell, carrying the Separatists from Lieden in Holland, didn't get very far before the Speedwell began to take on water again - either because she carried too much sail, straining her timbers, or the direct result of sabotage by the reluctant crew. The ships diverted to Dartmouth for repairs, arriving on 23 August 1620.

According to passengers, the Speedwell was leaking like a sieve and required urgent attention. The Pilgrims were regarded with some suspicion by the Dartmouth locals and while the repairs were made in Bayard’s Cove harbour, the Mayflower moored upstream on the River Dart beside what is now known as Pilgrim Hill. While much has changed on the waterfront since, they would still recognise the Tudor Bayard’s Cove Fort, Lower Street, Smith Street, St Saviour’s church and Agincourt House, now the Royal Castle Hotel.

It took about a week for the port's skilled craftsmen to make good the damage before the ships headed out into the English Channel, North Atlantic bound.

Visiting Dartmouth

Dartmouth is situated on the bank of the River Dart in South Devon. It is a truly picturesque town, combining heritage, fantastic shopping and places to eat, with a vibrant waterfront hosting an active sailing community. The annual Royal Regatta is one of the largest sailing events in the UK, and attracts visitors from all over the world.

The Britannia Royal Naval College, dating from 1863, overlooks the port of Dartmouth from its position on the hill; this is where all Royal Naval officers receive their initial service and leadership training, joined by many international Naval officers. The College is sometimes open for guided tours - and is thought to be the place where Queen Elizabeth met Prince Philip.

Dartmouth is a creative town - the small streets of the shopping heart of the town are bursting with local artists working in their shops and galleries. The Flavel Arts Centre has a varied programme of events and exhibitions to suit all tastes.

The town also boasts a strong historical and social heritage and guided walks around the old town can be arranged. The nearby Dartmouth Museum, situated in the 17th Century “Butterwalk”, shares stories of the town’s maritime history. The oldest preserved steam engine in the world – invented by Dartmouth born Thomas Newcomen - can be viewed at the Dartmouth Visitor Centre. Other places of interest include Bayard’s Cove Fort (1510), Dartmouth Castle (1488) and St Saviour’s (1372) and St Petrox (1641) Churches 

Dartmouth Mayflower Highlights

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