Attractions and Places To See around Dawlish - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Dawlish encompass a range of natural features and historical sites along the South Devon coast. The town is known for its unique railway line, coastal scenery, and diverse natural reserves. Visitors can explore estuaries, beaches, and historical landmarks, offering varied experiences. The region provides opportunities for walking, cycling, and observing local wildlife.
Best attractions and places to see around Dawlish
- The most popular attractions is Exe Estuary Trail, a trail that offers…
Last updated: April 25, 2026
Exeter Ship Canal
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
It was first constructed in the 1560s and …
Tip by
Exe Estuary Trail
Highlight • Trail
Well surfaced and ideal for any type of bike as well as walkers and runners. …
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Countess Wear Bridges
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
Exe Estuary Trail boardwalk
Highlight • Cycleway
Tip by
Otter Estuary Nature Reserve
Highlight (Segment) • Natural Monument
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Dawlish.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Look out for an entrance onto a footpath on your right, which follows beside the railway tracks on your left, and the exe estuary on your right. The path is too narrow for cycling but great for walking and running.
1
0
Beautiful walk and perfect opportunity to see wildlife
0
0
With over 120 species of bird recorded on the site, the River Otter Estuary Nature Reserve is the perfect place for bird watching. The estuary covers around 33 hectares and is a designated site of Special Scientific Interest. The Otter Estuary has an intertidal habitat of mudflats and saltmarshes, making it an ideal home for a number of fish, birds and other marine life. If you have a keen eye, you can often spot things such as mud shrimps and a host of wading birds like the Ringed Plover, Curlew, Black tailed Godwit, Dunlin, Common Sandpiper, Redshank and Brent Goose. Occasionally, you’ll find rarer birds including avocet and glossy ibis. Whatever time of year you visit, you’ll spot something new depending on the birds migratory habits, so every trip is a unique experience. As well as birds, the estuary is a great place for spotting otters and is home to England’s first population of native wild beavers. Around ten years ago, beavers reappeared on the River Otter and now there is a happy and healthy colony of beavers living at the estuary. While visiting, be sure to follow these guidelines: Be considerate of other users, make way when paths are narrow and be quiet and respectful when exploring Take all your litter with you Do not approach any wildlife Keep dogs under control, especially around other people and wildlife Always bag and bin dog waste Cycling is not permitted Watersports are only for the beach, not the estuary to protect wildlife, so please launch any boards or paddles from the beach. Only use the designated areas for BBQs and picnics
2
0
This swing bridge is an interesting construction.
0
0
Nice flat cycle path. But gets VERY busy with 2 wheeled, 2 legged and 4 legged visitors in the summer months. Watch how you go.
0
0
Nice flat cycle path. But gets VERY busy with 2 wheeled, 2 legged and 4 legged visitors in the summer months. Watch how you go.
1
1
Exeter Ship Canal is a canal leading from (and beside) the River Exe to Exeter Quay in the city of Exeter, Devon. It was first constructed in the 1560s and was the first canal to be built in Britain since Roman times. It was also the first canal in England to use the pound lock. The canal was built to bypass the weirs that had been erected on the river by the Countess of Devon and later by the Earls of Devon, which prevented ships from reaching Exeter and forced them to unload at Topsham. The canal was enlarged and extended several times over the centuries and reached its present form in the 1830s. The canal basin was also built at that time and became a busy port with warehouses and workshops. Today, the canal is mainly used for leisure activities such as boating, walking and cycling. You can follow the Exe Estuary Trail alongside the canal and enjoy the scenic views of the river and the countryside.
7
0
Countess Wear Bridges are two bridges in Exeter, Devon that cross the River Exe and the Exeter Ship Canal. They have a D-Day connection because they were used for military training by British paratroops prior to the Normandy landings in 1944. The bridges were chosen because they resembled two bridges in France that were part of the Operation Deadstick, a daring mission to capture and hold the crossings over the Caen Canal and River Orne. The training involved rehearsing different scenarios and tactics in case the plan went wrong on D-Day.
8
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best outdoor activities and trails around Dawlish?
Dawlish offers a variety of outdoor activities, particularly along its scenic coastline and estuaries. The Exe Estuary Trail is a popular traffic-free path ideal for cycling, walking, and running, providing stunning views of the estuary. You can also explore the Exe Estuary Trail boardwalk, which is part of a 36 km route linking Exmouth, Exeter, and Dawlish. For birdwatching and nature, the Otter Estuary Nature Reserve is a significant spot, especially at the estuary mouth.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Dawlish?
Yes, Dawlish has several family-friendly attractions. The Exe Estuary Trail and its boardwalk section are great for family walks and cycles. The Otter Estuary Nature Reserve is also suitable for families interested in wildlife. Beyond these, Dawlish Warren Beach is a Blue Flag beach with golden sands and safe swimming, and Funder Park and Safari Adventure Golf at Dawlish Warren offer additional activities for children.
Where can I see the famous black swans in Dawlish?
Dawlish is renowned for its iconic black swans. You can typically see these elegant birds gracefully inhabiting Dawlish Water, also known as The Brook, which flows through The Lawn in the town center. This central green space provides a picturesque setting for observing them.
What historical sites can I visit near Dawlish?
For history enthusiasts, the Exeter Ship Canal is a significant historical site, being the first canal built in Britain since Roman times and the first in England to use the pound lock. The Countess Wear Bridges also hold historical importance, having been used for military training prior to the Normandy landings in 1944. Additionally, the Dawlish Museum offers insights into the town's rich heritage, including artifacts from the railway's early days.
Are there any accessible paths for wheelchairs or strollers?
Yes, the Exe Estuary Trail boardwalk is specifically noted as being wheelchair accessible, making it a great option for those with strollers or mobility aids. This section offers spectacular views of the estuary and is predominantly off-road.
What kind of wildlife can I spot in the Dawlish area?
The Dawlish area is rich in wildlife, particularly birds. The Otter Estuary Nature Reserve is a prime location for birdwatching, supporting significant populations of wintering wildfowl and waders like redshank, common sandpiper, curlew, and red-breasted merganser. Reed warblers, sedge warblers, and reed buntings also breed there. Dawlish Warren Nature Reserve, with its diverse habitats, is also vital for migratory birds.
Where can I go for a coastal walk in Dawlish?
Dawlish offers several excellent coastal walking opportunities. You can walk along the Dawlish Sea Wall, which provides stunning views of the coastline and the historic railway line. The South West Coast Path also passes through Dawlish, offering breathtaking views of the dramatic coastline. For an easy hike, consider routes like the 'Dawlish Warren nature reserve loop' or 'Red Rock Beach – Dawlish Sea Wall Path loop from Dawlish Warren'.
What are the best beaches in Dawlish?
Dawlish boasts several lovely beaches. Dawlish Town Beach is a sandy expanse perfect for swimming and traditional seaside activities, located a short walk from the town center. Coryton Cove, south-west of Dawlish, is known for its crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Dawlish Warren Beach is a popular Blue Flag beach, celebrated for its golden sands and safe swimming conditions, making it a fantastic destination for families.
Are there cycling routes suitable for different skill levels?
Yes, Dawlish offers cycling routes for various skill levels. The Exe Estuary Trail is well-surfaced and ideal for all types of bikes, including families and less experienced cyclists. For those interested in gravel biking, routes like 'Topsham to Woodbury Common' or 'Haldon Forest MTB Skills Park' offer moderate to difficult challenges. You can find more cycling options in the 'Gravel biking around Dawlish' guide.
What makes the Dawlish railway line unique?
The Dawlish railway line is an impressive Victorian-era engineering feat by Isambard Kingdom Brunel. It famously hugs the coastline, offering breathtaking sea views for train passengers. Walking along the sea wall provides a chance to admire this historic structure and the dramatic coastal scenery, showcasing its unique position between the cliffs and the sea.
Can I find easy walking routes around Dawlish?
Absolutely. Dawlish and its surroundings offer several easy walking routes. The 'Dawlish Warren nature reserve loop' is an easy 6.5 km hike. Other easy options include the 'Red Rock Beach – Dawlish Sea Wall Path loop from Dawlish Warren' and the 'Smugglers Lane Coastal Path loop from Dawlish'. These routes are generally flat and well-suited for a leisurely stroll. More easy hikes can be found in the 'Easy hikes around Dawlish' guide.
What is there to do on a rainy day in Dawlish?
On a rainy day, you can explore the Dawlish Museum to delve into the town's history and heritage, or catch a show at the Shaftesbury Theatre for some cultural entertainment. For classic arcade fun, Harrison's Amusements provides an indoor option.
Most popular routes around Dawlish
Most popular attractions around Dawlish
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
