The loveliest village in South England, Dittisham, United Kingdom

by bicska review

► added on 23rd of May, 2009

Dittisham is one of the most attractive and un-spoilt villages in Devon, England and it has in recent years, become a sought after place to live which is reflected its relatively high property prices.

In the centre of the village is Shinners Meadow and down by the river The Ham, which was bequeathed to the parish. The Ham is a place where people walk their dogs, meet friends, or just sit and gaze at the river. There are toilets, a small car park, the proceeds of which go to the Parish Council and help towards its upkeep.

To those that live in the village, Shinners Meadow is the green heart of the village. In the meadow is the local teams football pitch which is owned by the Football Club and administered by trustees for the club.

The magnificent Dittisham plum orchards - so famous between the two world wars - still thrive in the mild climate though not to the same degree as those days. However its plums are still famous particularly so for the locally-known 'Plowman' variety, which is similar to the 'Victoria' and is believed to be unique to Dittisham. There is some speculation as to the origins of the name 'Plowman Plum', one theory being that it is from German 'Pflaummen Baum' and that the trees were originally brought in from the continent. Whatever the name, the fruit is delicious and people come from the surrounding towns to buy them in July and August, when they are ripe.

At the top of the village opposite the Red Lion Inn is the Village Hall. It was formerly the village school, built in 1843 for 160 pupils. It was closed in 1968 with 18 pupils, the children now travelling to Blackawton, Dartmouth or Totnes. The school was leased to the village in 1982 and has been completely refurbished. It is now a wonderful venue for all types of functions.

The hamlet of Capton is 11/2 miles to the west of Dittisham, near the road to Hemborough Post ('Sportsmans Arms') and Dartmouth. It has developed from its farming roots into a thriving community.

One mile out of Dittisham to the north-west, again like Capton, Coombe has developed from farming roots into a small community including Hotel and restaurant, Leisure art studios and gallery.

Although outside the parish of Dittisham on the opposite side of the river, Greenway House is worth a mention. It was the home of the late Agatha Christie and has now been left to the the National Trust.

The opening times are restricted to 31 weeks a year, four days a week. Also, the number of cars/mini-coachs (max 25-seaters) will be limted, and all visitors (both members and non-members) intending to arrive by car/mini-coach must book a parking space before arriving at this property.

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