As well as a key centre for art in the South West, Dartmouth has burgeoning retail sector rival towns many times as large. Many of its shops are one offs, and have been started by individuals wanting a life-style change. As a consequence the shops often have that touch of flair that you seldom see in the high street. There are some excellent boutiques for clothes, shoes and accessories alongside some strong brands such as White Stuff. For gifts, there is a huge amount of choice, from handmade jewellery to wonderful local foodstuffs. Whether it is Christmas presents or your summer wardrobe you will find that Dartmouth has a fantastic retail range to suit all ages and both sexes.

Galleries are a real feature of Dartmouth and worth half a days browsing or an evening at one of the bi-annual art weekends. The quality and range of art is refreshing, much of it is local, including from Simon Drew, the famous cartoonist, who is always on hand to engage with his customers; James Stewart whose work is in the Bar and Browns Hotel; and Simon Hart, whose prints are now a nationally recognised portrayal of Dartmouth scenes. Coombe and D'Art fine art galleries often showcase local artists.