Living in Saltash

Saltash is known for its active, community-driven atmosphere. The area supports numerous local groups, voluntary organisations, and clubs, encouraging residents of all ages to engage socially. Annual events such as Saltash Regatta, May Fair, and Christmas Festival draw crowds and celebrate the history, culture, and creativity of the area.

The town is surrounded by green spaces, with Victoria Gardens providing a peaceful spot for walks, and access to the Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty just west of Saltash for more ambitious outdoor pursuits. The Waterside has views of the river and is often host to rowing and sailing events. Community centres and sports clubs, from rugby to sailing, offer extensive opportunities for residents to get involved and meet neighbours.

Saltash is generally considered a safe place to live, benefitting from its small-town atmosphere and tight-knit community. Crime rates in Saltash are lower than in larger urban centres like Plymouth, with most incidents involving minor anti-social behaviour or occasional property crime. The town’s neighbourhood policing team is visible and works closely with local residents and schools to promote community safety initiatives.

There have been focused efforts on regeneration and community engagement, contributing to a steady reduction in crime over recent years. Residents often remark on the quiet streets and reassuring presence of local neighbourhood watch groups, particularly in suburban and riverside areas.

Parking in Saltash is generally manageable, with several public car parks available in the town centre and at key local attractions. On-street parking is also possible in most residential areas, though some zones operate resident permit schemes. During peak commuting hours, some congestion can occur around the Tamar Bridge and the A38, but traffic is generally lighter compared to major cities.

Saltash’s road access is excellent for South East Cornwall. The A38 runs through the town, providing quick connections to both Cornwall and Devon. The Tamar Bridge gives direct access to Plymouth. Saltash is also a convenient starting point for journeys into the Cornwall countryside or towards the coast, with main routes signposted clearly.

Plymouth – approx. 10 minutes via Tamar Bridge (5 miles)
Liskeard – approx. 20 minutes via A38 (13 miles)
Bodmin – approx. 35 minutes via A38 (26 miles)
Exeter – approx. 1 hour 10 minutes via A38/M5 (50 miles)

Food and drink in Saltash reflect both Cornish and broader British traditions. The town centre is home to a collection of independent cafés, bakeries, and tea rooms—many of which offer local produce and Cornish specialities. There are several traditional pubs such as The Brunel Inn and The Union Inn, both popular for their history and riverside views.

Restaurants in Saltash range from classic fish and chips to family-run Italian and Indian eateries, as well as access to seasonal farmers’ markets showcasing West Country food. For evening entertainment, the social scene is relaxed, with a handful of welcoming bars and regular live music events. Those seeking a more vibrant nightlife often take the short trip into Plymouth for theatres, large pubs, and clubs.

Takeaways are well represented, from Cornish pasties to Chinese and pizza outlets, catering to various tastes and budgets.

School Quality: Saltash’s primary and secondary schools are well-rated and offer a range of extracurricular activities and support services for families. The learning environment is inclusive and there are options for both faith and non-denominational education.

Parks and Green Space: Families benefit from multiple parks, play areas, and proximity to the Tamar Valley, making it easy to enjoy an outdoor lifestyle.

Childcare: Excellent nurseries and pre-schools are available across town, including settings with extended hours for working parents.

Safety: The community focus and low crime rates contribute to a safe environment for children to grow up in.

Family Activities: Regular community events, water sports, local libraries, and clubs offer families a variety of things to do, fostering a supportive environment for all ages.

Saltash is extremely welcoming to pet owners, with numerous green spaces, riverside walks, and countryside access suitable for dogs and other pets. Victoria Gardens, Saltmill Park, and the trails along the Tamar Valley are popular for walks and exercise. The Waterside area provides opportunities for scenic strolls beside the river.

The town supports several veterinary practices, pet shops, and grooming salons. Many local pubs and cafes welcome dogs, and landlords are often open to tenants with pets. Specialist coastal walks and beaches just a short drive away broaden the options for pet-friendly living in Saltash.

Saltash’s position next to the River Tamar and on the main A38 road makes it a key hub for transport in South East Cornwall. The town is served by Saltash railway station, which offers direct services to Plymouth and regular connections further afield to Cornwall and London Paddington. Local bus services connect Saltash to nearby villages and the city of Plymouth, as well as to other parts of Cornwall.

The Tamar Bridge provides a crucial road link for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians between Saltash and Plymouth, and is a major route for commuters. The A38 road runs through the town, connecting to the M5 motorway near Exeter, making travelling by car convenient.

The nearest major airport is Exeter Airport, just over an hour away, providing domestic and some international flights, while Plymouth's ferry terminal offers routes to France and Spain.

Approximate commute times by public transport:

• Plymouth – 10 minutes by train or 20 minutes by car/bus
• Truro – 60 minutes by train
• Exeter – 75–90 minutes by train
• Bodmin – 35 minutes by car via the A38

Education in Saltash is well regarded, supporting families at all stages. The town offers a variety of primary and secondary schools, each serving local neighbourhoods and villages nearby.

Primary Schools in Saltash
Saltash offers several primary schools including Brunel Primary and Nursery Academy (Ofsted rated Good, 2020), Burraton Community Primary School (Ofsted rated Good, 2017), and Bishop Cornish CofE VA Primary School (Ofsted rated Outstanding, 2014), which is especially popular for its supportive ethos and academic results. St Stephens Community Primary School (Ofsted rated Good, 2019) also serves the community well.

Secondary Schools in Saltash
The main secondary school is Saltash Community School (Ofsted rated Good, 2019), a large comprehensive serving not just Saltash, but villages nearby. The school offers a broad curriculum and a wide range of extracurricular opportunities, including arts and sports.

Sixth Form & Colleges
Saltash Community School also includes a sixth form, delivering A-Level and vocational courses. For further education, the vast range of courses and apprenticeships at City College Plymouth, just a short journey across the Tamar, are accessible to Saltash students.

Universities Near Saltash
While Saltash itself does not host a university, the close proximity to Plymouth University—a highly regarded institution with a diverse choice of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees—means Saltash students have convenient access to higher education within easy commuting distance.