Dawlish

Part Victorian and part Georgian, Dawlish has a special charm and character, and has been a popular seaside resort since the 18th century.

Dawlish fulfils its role as a well-loved seaside holiday resort with a great deal of enthusiasm, filling the summer months with a packed programme of fun family entertainment including concerts, children's activities, Punch and Judy shows, and plays at the town's popular Shaftesbury Theatre.

Here are several beaches to choose from - Coryton Cove with rock pools and occasional dolphin sightings, convenient Town Beach, and Dawlish Warren with miles of golden sand sheltered by sand dunes. Swim, build sandcastles, or take a boat trip to admire the curious sandstone rock formation of the Parson and Clerk, turned to stone after the devil lured them into the sea, according to local legend.

Walkers can enjoy dramatic views from the South West Coast Path, or wander through Dawlish Warren Nature Reserve, a unique landscape of dunes and marram grass that provides a home for over 600 plants including the rare protected Warren Crocus and various orchid species. It is also a haven for waterbirds such as avocet, bar-tailed godwit, turnstone, and oystercatcher. Guided walks with wardens take place from the Visitor Centre where you will also find informative displays about the Reserve.

The centre of Dawlish is very attractive with famous Dawlish Black Swans sailing serenely on The Brook as it cascades down to the sea through The Lawn's colourful flower beds, stately chestnut trees, and exotic palms. Nearby Dawlish Museum is also worth a visit with interesting collections of Victoriana, militaria, and local industries and crafts.

From Dawlish you can also take a scenic trip along the coast by train on the line originally built by Brunel, one of the most beautiful railway journeys in the country.

For more information please contact the local Tourist Information Centre:
Dawlish Tourist Information Centre
The Lawn
Dawlish
Devon
EX7 9PW
Tel: 01626 215665
www.southdevon.org.uk