Top 20 Natural Monuments in South Hams

The South Hams region offers a variety of cherished natural monuments. Among the most popular are Dartmeet and Clapper Bridge, known for its river confluence and historic bridge remains, and Prawle Point, the southernmost tip of Devon with dramatic coastal views. Visitors also frequently enjoy South Sands Beach, a sheltered cove in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Yes, several natural monuments in South Hams are great for families. South Sands Beach is a sheltered spot perfect for relaxing. The southern edges of Dartmoor, including Combestone Tor, offer impressive granite formations and panoramic views that children often enjoy exploring. Additionally, the Ancient Yew Tree of St Mary & St Gabriel Church provides a historical and natural point of interest for all ages.

The natural monuments in South Hams often intertwine with rich history. At Dartmeet and Clapper Bridge, you can see the remains of an old clapper bridge dating back hundreds of years. Lydia Bridge Waterfall features a Grade II listed stone packhorse bridge from the 17th or 18th century. For a glimpse into Civil War history, visit the Gallants Bower Civil War Fort Ruins, which offer historical context alongside coastal views.

For breathtaking coastal views, head to Prawle Point, the southernmost tip of Devon, known for its rugged coastline and sea-rocks. Sharp Tor Coastal Path also offers stunning vistas along the South West Coast Path. Further west, Start Point provides memorable views from its prominent headland and lighthouse, while Bolberry Down offers accessible paths to spectacular coastal scenery.

Absolutely. The South Hams region, including areas around its natural monuments, is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, such as those around Lydia Bridge Waterfall, with routes like the 'Lydia Bridge Waterfall – Shipley Bridge loop'. For cycling, explore routes like 'The Dartmoor Way High Moorland Link southern loop' or 'The South Hams loop to Brixham & Dartmouth'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Hiking in South Hams and Cycling in South Hams guides.

The South Hams is rich in wildlife. At Prawle Point, a haven for birdwatchers, you might spot buzzards, ravens, hawks, and various migrant birds. Slapton Ley, a large freshwater lake, is excellent for birdwatching, with sightings of coastal flowers, swifts, swallows, and Crested Grebes. On the fringes of Dartmoor, you may encounter Dartmoor ponies roaming freely.

For beach activities, South Sands Beach is a delightful, sheltered cove. Blackpool and the Salmon Leaps also offers a beach experience. Bigbury Bay, with its beaches at Bigbury and Bantham, is renowned for sandcastle building, surfing, and body-boarding, and provides access to the unique tidal Burgh Island.

Yes, Lydia Bridge Waterfall is a notable natural monument featuring a picturesque waterfall immediately north of the historic bridge. It's a lovely spot to enjoy the sound and sight of cascading water over mossy boulders.

The South Hams region is beautiful year-round, but the best time often depends on your preferred activities. Spring and autumn are ideal for walking and wildlife spotting, as migrant birds pass through areas like Prawle Point. Summer offers warmer weather for beach activities at places like South Sands Beach and longer days for exploring. Even winter can be dramatic for coastal walks, though some facilities might have reduced hours.

The South Hams is special due to its incredible diversity, largely falling within the South Devon National Landscape. It boasts dramatic coastlines, tranquil river valleys, and the rugged fringes of Dartmoor National Park. This designation highlights its exceptional natural beauty, featuring patchwork farmland, sheltered estuaries, sandy coves, and dramatic coastal cliffs, all contributing to a rich tapestry of natural monuments.

While primarily outside South Hams, the region borders Dartmoor National Park, offering access to its southern edges. Notable natural monuments here include granite tors like Combestone Tor. These tors provide impressive rock formations and panoramic views, often stretching across the South Hams to the coast, and are excellent for exploring the unique Dartmoor landscape.

Yes, Combestone Tor on Dartmoor is known for its accessibility. Additionally, Bolberry Down offers a short, accessible tarmac path from the car park leading to spectacular coastal vistas, making it ideal for those seeking stunning scenery with an easier walk.