Features
Kingsbridge Quayside is a classic South Devon crabbing spot with a genuinely relaxed feel — you can set up along the quayside, along the promenade, or try one of the slipways depending on how busy it gets. It’s a proper little estuary town and a great base for a full day out.
Quayside, promenade, slipways
Quay Car Park or Cattle Market (cheaper)
Crab Shell Inn, Creek’s End, Crow’s Nest Café
Boat to Salcombe down the estuary
🎣 The Crabbing Itself
Crabbing here is spread along the waterfront rather than concentrated at a single spot — the quayside wall, the promenade, and several slipways all work well for dropping a line. It’s a relaxed, unhurried spot that suits younger kids and families who want to crab at their own pace rather than fighting for position on a busy pier.
Image courtesy of Toad Hall Cottages (A great place to stay in Devon)
🚗 Parking
The most convenient option is the Quay Car Park, right on the waterfront — but it’s the pricier one. Rates: £2.60 for 1 hour, £4.20 for 2 hours, £6.30 for 3 hours, £7.30 for 4 hours.
If you’re planning a longer visit, the Cattle Market Car Park is noticeably cheaper and only a short walk away — £1.60 for 1 hour, £4.20 for 3 hours, or £5.20 all day. It’s right by the Crow’s Nest Cafe if you need a coffee on the way in.
🍦 Food and Drink
You’re well served here. The Crab Shell Inn on Embankment Road is the obvious spot given the name, and a decent option for a proper pub meal. For something a bit more special, Creek’s End is the one to head for — a great restaurant right on the water.
⛵ Worth Knowing — Boat to Salcombe
One of the best things about Kingsbridge is the boat trip down the estuary to Salcombe — another excellent crabbing spot in its own right. Crab at Kingsbridge, take the boat down, crab again at Salcombe’s Victoria Quay. That’s a proper day out.
🦺 Safety and Accessibility
The quayside and promenade are flat and generally accessible, making it a good option for pushchairs. The slipways are slipperier underfoot so take care with little ones near those. As always, keep kids within reach near the water’s edge.
📝 Final Thoughts
Kingsbridge is a great all-rounder — easy waterfront crabbing, decent parking if you use the Cattle Market, good food options, and the bonus of a boat trip to Salcombe if you want to make a full day of it. If you’re in South Devon and torn between spots, pairing Kingsbridge and Salcombe in the same day is genuinely one of the better options.