Bayard's Cove Fort

Bayard's Cove Fort is a small but complete 16th century gun platform at the southern end of Dartmouth's quay. Built around 1509 to protect the harbour entrance, it is one of the earliest purpose-built coastal artillery forts in England. The circular embrasures for the cannon survive intact, and the fort itself is in good condition — managed by English Heritage and freely accessible.

The cobbled quay at Bayard's Cove, just upstream from the fort, is one of the most attractive spots in Dartmouth. A row of old houses lines the water's edge, and the Dartmouth Lower Ferry crosses here for Kingswear. This is where the town has its most maritime feel, particularly in the evening when the light is soft and the boats are quiet.

things to do sight
A story
In September 1620, the Mayflower and the Speedwell put in at Dartmouth for repairs before their Atlantic crossing. The Speedwell was leaking so badly she was eventually abandoned and her passengers squeezed onto the Mayflower, which departed from Plymouth. Bayard's Cove was where they stopped — making this small fort one of the last pieces of England the Pilgrim Fathers ever saw.