Things to do in Dawlish
Another highlight of the Devon coast can be found across the Exmouth estuary just northeast of Teignmouth. Situated a scenic 20-mile drive from our Devon Cliffs Holiday Park, Dawlish is a pretty seaside town with plenty of surprises in store.
From tranquil walks to engaging activities, here's our curated list of things to do in Dawlish.
1. Dawlish Beach
Dawlish Beach is something of a local secret since it all but vanishes at high tide. However, time your visit just right and you can walk its sandy shoreline, build a sandcastle, paddle in the waves, or just relax with a book. The train station is close-by if you’ve come by rail.
At high tide, there’s a recently completed walkway between the railway line and seawall, perfect for joggers and dog walkers.
2. Dawlish Lawn & Brook
The small river the town sits on is either called the Dawlish Water or sometimes simply The Brook. Dawlish Lawn is a green space on the banks of this watercourse, where you can wander, dine in the small café, or look for the famous Dawlish black swans!
You’ll often find local performances and markets taking place, so check local guides or tourist information for up-to-date details.
3. Shaftesbury Theatre
How about a dose of culture? Catch a show or performance at this local community theatre. There's always something on the cards, with entertaining performances and musical nights.
The theatre’s auditorium makes for an intimate experience, with a performance history stretching back over 70 years. You’ll find the theatre on the opposite side of The Brook from Dawlish Lawn.
4. Dawlish Warren Nature Reserve
Nature lovers, this one's for you! Explore the diverse habitats of this 530-acre reserve, which boasts sand dunes, grasslands, and Warren Beach, a sandy haven for swimmers and sunbathers. There’s a visitors’ centre, so you can find out more about the reserve’s 23,000 avian visitors and more than 600 species of plant-life.
Be sure to bring those binoculars: you might spot rare birds, including ringed plovers, dunlins, and red-breasted mergansers. The reserve is adjacent to Dawlish Warren train station, and there’s ample parking too.
5. Dawlish Museum
Dive into Dawlish's intriguing past at this local museum. With a rich collection of artefacts and exhibits, it's a charming journey through time.
With 11 rooms over three floors, there’s plenty to see, from a unique collection of D-Day bagpipes to exhibitions about the great storms of 2014 and many rare, historic photographs.
6. Railway adventures
Dawlish's railway line offers picturesque views as it runs right by the coast. Hop on a train and enjoy one of the UK's most scenic rides! Dawlish to Exeter takes around 20 minutes and Teignmouth is just a five minute hop to the south. Why not take the train in one direction and walk back?
7. Seaside walks
Dawlish is perfectly situated to enjoy a range of scenic walks. Stroll along the South West Coast Path, explore the town's charming lanes, or venture to Teignmouth, via the Langstone Cliffs Walking Trail.
Look out for local attractions like the red sandstone bluff at Langstone Rock, or the viewpoint at Lea Mount to the south of Dawlish. There are several good routes for walkers, joggers, or cyclists and all are dog-friendly, provided your pet is on the lead.
8. Shopping in the town centre
Grab a souvenir, delve into Devon crafts, or treat yourself to some local treats. Dawlish's town centre has a smattering of unique shops waiting to be discovered.
For the highest concentration, head for The Strand and Queen Street. There you’ll find a local bookshop, sweet shop, clothing, and curios. There are several good local cafes and places to indulge in that seaside must – fish and chips.
9. Funder Park
The phrase ‘good things come in small packages’ totally applies to this theme park located right near the beach in Dawlish! It’s a small yet impeccably-kept venue with rollercoasters, a pirate ship, and rides for little ones and big kids! If thrill-seeking isn’t quite your cup of tea, try your hand at adventure golf or amusement games and keep your feet firmly on the ground.
Bring your pooch - they’re welcome to follow you round the park. As you’d expect, there are food and drink stalls to satisfy hungry bellies, plus plenty of parking if you’re driving in.
Start planning your Great British break
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Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
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*Holiday home price is based on a pre-owned holiday home and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.
Price excludes 2025 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As at 17 January 2025, price is available at Kent Coast, Blue Dolphin, Caister-on-Sea, Cardigan View, Greenacres, Hafan y Mor, Lakeland, Seton Sands, Berwick, Cala Gran, Devon Cliffs, Doniford Bay, Hopton, Littlesea, Presthaven, Reighton Sands, Rockley Park, Thornwick Bay and Weymouth Bay.
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.