A traditional English market town, Kingsbridge sits on the Kingsbridge/Salcombe Estuary. It lies within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and due to it’s waterside location and surrounding countryside is a popular destination for walkers and sailing enthusiasts.

History

Kingsbridge takes its name from an ancient bridge that was built to link two royal estates: Alvington and Chillington. By 1219 was a market town and by the 18^th century, milling was a major source of revenue for the town. Throughout the 19^th century, the town had an active coastal shipping trade, with thriving tanning and shipbuilding industries.

Things to Do

You’ll find an abundance of things to do within the Kingsbridge area. Whether you want to head a nearby beach such as Slapton Sands or the beaches of Salcombe and East Portlemouth or explore the many independent shops. It’s a great place for walkers to explore the South Devon AONB as well as the South West Coast Path. Explore the town via streets such as Squeezebelly Alley and discover Kingsbridge’s history as well as hidden treasures such as mosaics, a community garden and even a miniature railway.

The towns estuary location means it’s the ideal place to try your hand at some watersports such as kayaking, stand up paddle boarding or sailing. Or there’s some great places just a short drive away to have a go at surfing such as Bantham Beach.

The town centre in Kingsbridge is full of eclectic shops to be enjoyed. From art galleries to antique shops and plenty of gift shops to pick up a memento or two for your loved ones. There’s also a three screen cinema, leisure centre with a pool and yoga studio so there’s no excuse to be bored! The restaurants and cafés serve up local food and drinks so you can enjoy South Devon’s finest produce.

Events

Regardless of the time of year, there’s always plenty of fantastic local events going on in Kingsbridge. Some of our favourites include Kingsbridge Food and Music Festival and Kingsbridge Fair Week in the summer months, Kingsbridge Show in September and of course the ever popular Kingsbridge Celebrates Christmas during December. There’s also regular farmers markets, art events and concerts.

Kingsbridge Information Centre

When you get to Kingsbridge if you’re looking for more useful information about the town, be sure to pop in and say hello to the friendly staff at the Kingsbridge Information Centre, conveniently located on the Town Square. They’ll be happy to recommend places to eat and things to do and they also stock maps, walks, souvenirs and gifts as well as selling tickets to local events, weekly car park permits and cards by local artists.