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Things to do in Dawlish, Devon

A 48 Hour Trip – Things to do in Dawlish, Devon

There’s so many reasons why Dawlish in Devon is a top destination for holidays and short breaks in the UK. With its stunning coastline and countryside views, iconic cream teas and a seemingly neverending list of fun activities, it’s popular for families looking for either an action-packed or relaxing break.

It’s the kind of place many holidaymakers come back to – probably because there’s so much to do! We’ve compromised a list that’ll help you get the most out of your short break in Dawlish, but we can’t promise that you won’t be back for more….

dawlish

DAY 1

Forest Fungi
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9:00am

Breakfast at Forest Fungi

If you don’t fancy cooking up a full English (why should you? You’re on holiday!) your first stop could be a spot of breakfast in the clubhouse to give you enough energy for the day. If you want to explore the local area from the get-go, there’s a plethora of local small cafes and restaurants where you can pick up breakfast and start your sampling of local delicacies. One favourite is Forest Fungi, serving delicious food with a variety of vegetarian and child friendly options on the menu.

Location: Warren Road, Dawlish EX7 0NG England

Dawlish Warren Beach
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11:00am

Walk on Dawlish Warren Beach

Have you even been to Dawlish if you’ve not had a walk on Dawlish Warren beach? Pack the bucket and spade and a sunhat – this sandy Blue Flag beach is the perfect picturesque walk and place to sunbathe.

Location: Leave the M5 at Junction 30, signposted A379 Dawlish. Continue to follow the signs for Dawlish A379.

Daisy’s Tea Room
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2:00pm

Lunch at Daisy’s Tea Room

If a picnic and going al-fresco on the beach for lunch isn’t your style, why not try an authentic Devon cream tea? Daisy’s Tea Room offers homemade scones, cakes and sandwiches, which are sure to satisfy any cravings.

Location: 25 The Strand, Dawlish EX7 9PS

The Paint Hub
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3:00pm

An afternoon at The Paint Hub

Good for a rainy afternoon (it is a British getaway, after all), The Paint Hub is popular with visitors young and old and for any and all abilities. Your group can customise their own pieces of useable pottery with paints, stencils, stamps and more and have it glazed and fired while there to make it dishwasher safe! And the best part – you can all enjoy fresh cake and coffees while you make your masterpieces at this unique café!

Location: Dawlish Warren Rd, Dawlish Warren EX7 0PH

Powderham Castle
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4:00pm

Visit Powderham Castle

If it’s not raining – a visit to Powderham Castle is a must. Walk in the grounds and gardens and take in the history! Powderham Castle lies in a beautiful deer park on the banks of the River Exe, just a stone's throw from the historic cathedral city of Exeter, so while you explore you might catch a glimpse of some of the resident deer and get some impressive photos!

Location: Exeter EX6 8JQ

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The Smugglers Inn
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6:00pm

Dinner at The Smugglers Inn

Providing a full lunch and evening menu that caters to everybody - with stunning steak dishes, full vegan and gluten free options and a famous ‘Farmers Feast’ carvery, while diners can enjoy panoramic sea views from their tables. The perfect end to your first day exploring Dawlish!

Location: 27 Teignmouth Rd, Dawlish EX7 0LA

DAY 2

Luxury Lodge
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9:00am

Breakfast in your Luxury Lodge

Enjoy all the creature comforts of home and more and treat yourself to breakfast goodies in the kitchen of your luxury lodge – coffee on the breakfast bar or a sit down with the family tucking into some favourites. The perfect start to the second day of your exploring!

Location: Warren Road, Dawlish Warren, Devon, EX7 0PG

dawlish sands swimming
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11:00am

A morning swim at Dawlish or Golden Sands

(Once your breakfast is digested, of course) A dip in the pool is an essential for any family getaway. Both our parks Dawlish Sands and Golden Sands have fantastic pools and you can enjoy the facilities of both parks while you visit – so even if you don’t fancy a swim, you can try your hand at hover archery, riding segways and try to spot Loopy, Cyril and Penny!

Location: Dawlish Sands Holiday Park - EX7 0PG, Golden Sands - EX7 0LZ

chippy chaps
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12:00pm

Fish ‘n’ Chips at Chippy Chaps

The British seaside is incomplete without some freshly cooked chips and mushy peas, and Chippy Chaps provides. While you eat you can stroll or sit on the seafront and take in the views that stretch for miles around.

Location: Beach Road, Dawlish Warren, Dawlish EX7 0NF England

Spy Mission Treasure Trail
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2:00pm

Take on the Dawlish Spy Mission Treasure Trail

Embark on this self guided trail and crack the secret codes while you explore more of Dawlish. This is a fun walk and a cheap activity to keep the kids entertained while getting some healthy exercise. You never know – along the way you might find some great local places for fresh ice cream!

Location: Station Road, Dawlish, Devon, EX7 9LT

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Exe Estuary Trail
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4:00pm

Cycle the Exe Estuary Trail

Alternative to hunting for treasure – a great way to explore the area around Dawlish is by bike. There are several cycling routes around Dawlish and Dawlish Warren for all abilities, whether you’re an avid cyclist or novice. The more adventurous of the trails is the Exe Estuary Trail which is a 17.5 mile route from Dawlish to Exmouth via Exeter which offers amazing views of the river – and if you fancy it, you can hire bikes locally in Dawlish!

Location: The route follows both sides of the River Exe Estuary, linking the seaside resort of Dawlish Warren to Exmouth.

*Due to covid-19, please check the opening times of any attractions before attending.

Devon Holidays

Captivating cliffs, ancient towns, and gloriously golden beaches lapped by crystal clear waters are all to be discovered when you holiday in Devon.

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