Broadstone Boathouse Dartmouth

22/06/2026

PAW POINT UK

22/06/2026

“King John was not a good man…”

A.A. Milne wasn’t wrong… but even Bad King John had his moments in Dartmouth.

18-22 June 1205. John had lost Normandy to the King of France, but his own barons refused to help him get it back. Humiliated, he arrived here fuming. He would lead a fleet assembling in Dartmouth, to attack Normandy from the south.

Queen Isabella joined him. For four days, Dartmouth was at the centre of English history as he planned and schemed.

Then he had a new idea. He would ally with France’s enemies and raise taxes, to fund an even bigger army. He would get Normandy back… whatever it cost, and however much he oppressed the people. But in the end, he failed. So he became forever, Bad King John.

To learn more about Dartmouth’s history, check out the Dartmouth History Research Group website

📸: Clare Booth Photography

21/06/2026

Another 10/10 for Broadstone Boathouse!
Thank you 😊
(Tap to see full review)

20/06/2026

19/06/2026

Broadstone Boathouse is already booked up for this year’s Pride Festival, but keep an eye out for next year’s date!

Celebrating Pride Month in Dartmouth, Devon with events and resources for the LGBTQ community.

16/06/2026

15/06/2026

Shared for those interested in Dartmouth’s history.

When the Quay was New ⛵️

442 years ago, Dartmouth had a harbour full of junk, abandoned anchors, and rotting ships.

But trade was flourishing, and vast new fishing grounds off Newfoundland, England’s first
North American colony, promised exciting new business.

So, they turned a problem into a solution.

On 4 June 1584, the town’s Common Council made a decision that would shape Dartmouth
forever, reclaiming the foreshore below St Saviour’s churchyard to build a brand-new public
Quay.

Over 100 people donated. From Mayor John Smith at £10, to Widow Joan Baker at just a
shilling. Rubble from demolished buildings was contributed. Court fines went into the fund.

Wealthy residents took new building sites for prestigious new houses.

By 1591, more ships were using the harbour, and the profits were rolling in.

The Quay they built? It’s still at the heart of Dartmouth today.

If you want to find out more about Dartmouth’s history, check out the Dartmouth History Research Group via the link in the comments

📸: Dartmouth Museum