Salcombe Stories: A Guide to Salcombe
It’s no secret that Salcombe holds a special place in our hearts. Situated on the picturesque South Devon coast, it was on these sandy shores that our story first began.
Back in ’93, Alastair Parker-Swift owned a windsurfing shop in Salcombe, and it was here that he began selling our iconic rugby shirt. Crew Clothing was born, and the rest is history. A lot has changed since then, but not our love of this pretty coastal town, or its beautiful beaches.
By the Beach
Salcombe is a haven of hidden coves, sunny bays and coastal walks, but for unbeatable beach access, we recommend booking a stay at the Harbour Beach Club. Ideally situated on Salcombe’s sun-soaked South Sands, Harbour Beach Club is a brand new resort for 2022, but it’s already become one of our most-loved spots.
A little closer to town, North Sands is another Salcombe hotspot. It’s also home to one of our favourite restaurants, the Winking Prawn. Here, you can tuck into the freshest seafood, or warm up with a cosy mug of hot chocolate. If you’re looking to venture further afield, there’s no shortage of Salcombe beaches to explore. Walk out to Bolt Head and spot secret coves from above, or catch the ferry to East Portlemouth and walk the coastal path to Sunny Cove.
About Town
Pastel houses line the road down to the glittering harbour, and simply strolling the streets is one of our favourite pastimes. If you can set your alarm early enough, you can have the whole town to yourself, with the exception of a fisherman or two. After an early start, Salcombe Coffee House is the place to be. Come breakfast time, pick up one of their famous bacon sandwiches and thank us later.
Next, take your time exploring every inch of the charming high street. Sweet tooths should head straight to Cranch’s for their traditional treats, all wrapped up in a classic candy-cane striped bag. Continue the sugar rush at Roly’s Fudge Pantry – sea salt is our favourite flavour.
Finally, be sure to swing by our Salcombe store. These days you’ll find Crew Clothing up and down the country, but we’ve never forgotten where we came from. Here, you’ll find timeless clothing with the spirit of the coast in every stitch.
Where to stay
For couples
Planning a romantic weekend away? After a day of long walks on the beach and candlelit dinners, settle into Salcombe Harbour Hotel & Spa’s marshmallow soft bed, then soak away a few hours in the luxurious HarSPA. If you’re after unbeatable views, then South Sands hotel is calling. Ask for a room looking out onto the hotel’s namesake beach, or simply enjoy the breath-taking vista over breakfast.
For groups
Once home to the Earl of Devon, we loved the Moult’s awe-inspiring location and dusty pink exterior so much, we chose it as the location house for our autumn shoot. With sprawling grounds, a glittering outdoor pool and 12 comfortable double bedrooms, this is an ideal spot for catching up with your extended friends and family. For more intimate reunions, the iconic candy pink Pitchford House with its stunning views and walled garden is an obvious choice.
Where to dine
For meals
A self-contained foodie paradise, you won’t need to travel far in Salcombe when hunger strikes. Start the day at Salcombe Coffee Company for an expertly brewed cappuccino and the best bacon sandwich in town – perfect fuel for a morning on the surf. A wonderfully weathered beach-hut looking out onto North Sands beach, The Winking Prawn is a Salcombe institution serving up seafood platters and an unmissable Devonshire cream tea. On the lookout for family friendly fare? For crowd-pleasing favourites, surprisingly good cocktails and homemade pizzas, Captain Flint’s deserves a spot on your list.
For sweet treats
Candyfloss, rock candy and melting ice cream: sugary treats and seaside holidays make for a nostalgic combination. Established in 1869, pastel hued Cranch’s sweet shop is Devon’s oldest confectioner, and just the place to indulge your sweet tooth. Tuck into traditional favourites and pick-n-mix, then cross the street to Roly’s Fudge for multi-award-winning artisan fudge worth the sugar rush. Scrumptious.
For drinks
When it comes time for a tipple, stay local and sample the spirits over at Salcombe Gin’s Distillery. Visit The Boathouse bar for signature cocktails crafted from exclusive infusions you won’t find anywhere else – the espresso martini is a particular favourite. True gin aficionados can book themselves into Salcombe Gin School and try their hand at distilling, taking home a one-of-a-kind bottle of their very own.
What to do in Salcombe
Must do
Fancy getting your sea-legs? Traversing the estuary from Whitestrand to the unmissable South Sands beach, a visit to Salcombe would be incomplete without a ride on the South Sands ferry. Simply hop onto the sea tractor, give Tim a friendly hello from us, and enjoy the view as you cruise along the shoreline.
Days out
The south west shoreline brings not only unbeatable views, but a multitude of coastal-themed activities. Fill the days with paddle-boarding, crabbing and dinghy sailing, or take to the waves with a Sea Kayak tour. With a myriad of coves, sea caves and secluded bays to explore, this a unique way to experience Salcombe’s coastline. Looking to stay on dry land? See the shore from a different aspect with a walk along the cliff tops, following the famous South West Coast Path.
