top of page

Spitchwick Common

Wild Swimming Spot

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Moorland, Riverside, Woodland

Swimming, Picnicking

Spring to Autumn

Photo: Derek Harper via Geograph.org.uk

Spitchwick Common, also known as Deeper Marsh, is a popular river beach and wild swimming spot on the River Dart, on the edge of Dartmoor near the village of Poundsgate, close to New Bridge. Grassy flats run down to a rocky river shore, with shallow water for paddling near the bank and a deeper pool...

10

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

2

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

9 day, 1 overnight

The Tavistock Inn – Poundsgate, Briar Bakery​, Hylsten Bakery​

Ashburton Shepherds Hut, Airstream Vintage American Caravan

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Spitchwick Common?
Devon's rugged Dartmoor National Park hosts this popular riverside area along a bend in the water. Walkers can easily access the grassy banks from nearby roads.

What type of place is Spitchwick Common?
Spitchwick Common is a wild swimming spot in the Dartmoor National Park in Devon.

When is the best time to visit Spitchwick Common?
Summer months provide the warmest weather for a refreshing dip in the mountain water. September offers a much quieter experience when the oak leaves change colour.

What can you do at Spitchwick Common?
Swimmers regularly glide through the deep, tea-coloured pools of the River Dart. Families often spread out blankets on the green turf for a picnic under the trees.

How long should I spend at Spitchwick Common?
Spending half a day allows plenty of time to swim, relax on the grass, and enjoy the scenery. A shorter stopover works perfectly if you just want a quick, cooling plunge during a long hike.

Where do I park at Spitchwick Common?
Space exists for ten vehicles nearby, split between nine day spots and one overnight space. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Spitchwick Common?
The Tavistock Inn – Poundsgate, Briar Bakery, and Hylsten Bakery offer three choices for food in the local area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Spitchwick Common?
Ashburton Shepherds Hut and Airstream Vintage American Caravan provide two options for staying in the vicinity. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Free UK Travel Guides

Planning a UK adventure? Download our free itinerary guides and hidden gem collections, completely free.

Last Updated:

02 July 2026

Logo RGB_White_Stacked.png

Download the app

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter to get all the latest updates regarding hidden gems and staycations plus much more!

Thanks for subscribing!

Cookie Policy

Connect with us

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Youtube
  • TikTok
bottom of page
UK Hidden Gems
UK Hidden GemsUncover the UK's best secrets on our app