2022: At the Helm of History
Dartmouth was one of the twelve towns that took part in the National Mayflower Partnership, and throughout the twelve months from Thanksgiving November 2019 commemorating the 400-year anniversary of the sailing of the Mayflower to the New World, with a series of exciting events and projects, some of which leave a lasting legacy well beyond 2020.
The whole town has been involved in this historic commemoration, raising Dartmouth’s profile as a fascinating place to visit, encouraging national and international visitors, and stimulating the local economy.
We have created for Dartmouth a permanent legacy, making the town more attractive and informative for both residents and visitors, increasing visitor numbers and bringing economic benefits to the town and area.
One of the focal points in the town will be the Mayflower Trail.
Learn more about the Mayflower by watching this 3 minute video»
FOR 2022 Look out for The Jubilee River Parade on Saturday 27th August 2021, as part of the Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta. Bringing together as many boats as practicable for a Jubilee commemoration on our beautiful River Dart
Dartmouth’s Mayflower Heritage Trail consists of three linking trails that lead visitors through and around the town: the Town Trail, the Castle Trail and the Packhorse Trail. Leaflets are now available for all three sections as well as a children’s quiz and activity booklet for the Town Trail. Visitors will be able to imagine life in Dartmouth when the Mayflower and Speedwell were moored in the River Dart in 1620, discover the long rich history of the town, and enjoy some breathtaking views along the routes.
Learn more »
Download the Mayflower Self-Guided Tours app
Download the Trail Leaflets:
Phase I of the Dartmouth Mayflower Heritage Trail was opened by the Mayor of Dartmouth, Cllr Graham Webb, on Tuesday 19 November 2019. Click on the image to see a news report by ITN South West.
We envisage that the Mayflower 400 commemoration in 2020 will raise Dartmouth’s profile as a fascinating place to visit, encourage national and international visitors, and stimulate the local economy – leaving a legacy that will be beneficial to the town for years to come.
Schools, colleges and organisations are working together, creating educational opportunities and networks for young people. Young people from Dartmouth Academy assisted in the development of this striking sculpture on the Embankment, entitled “Pilgrim – New Horizons“. It was unveiled by the Mayor of Dartmouth, Cllr Graham Webb, on 11 Oct 19. Other Legacy projects can be seen at the link below. They include a scale model of the Mayflower, which will form the centrepiece of a Mayflower Exhibition in Dartmouth Museum, and a children’s book entitled “Stories of the Mayflower“.
By engaging with the community as a whole, diverse groups are working alongside each other to deliver our exciting projects – strengthening community spirit, and creating new connections and friendships.