In this blog post, we will be discussing the best things to do in Dawlish.
Whether you are traveling solo, or on a vacation with your family, friends, or spouse, there is something for everyone.
About Dawlish
Dawlish is one of the towns in the United Kingdom, and it is located in the South West part of England and the South coast of Devon.
Dawlish Area: 6,564 square km
Dawlish Timezone: GMT+1
Dawlish Population: 14,550
Dawlish Dialing Code: 01626
So, whether you’re a tourist or a local, get ready to discover the best that this beautiful seaside town has to offer.
Let’s dive in.
Explore Dawlish Warren Nature Reserve
Dawlish Warren National Nature Reserve covers 500 acres of beautiful grassland, sand dunes mudflat, and a small beach.
The Dawlish nature reserve is one of the best places to visit if you’re traveling to Dawlush for the first time.
This place features a wide variety of special plants. Over 600 different species of flowering plants have been recorded on the Warren.
This Nature Reserve also features different types of habitats including salt marshes, freshwater ponds, wet meadows, and woodland.
Every year more than 20,000 birds come to feed, on migration, or to spend the winter here, the birds usually start arriving in August and stay until late March.
So if you want to see this bird, then you should consider visiting here between August and March
If you have your fishing license, you can fish here as long as you follow the guidelines.
This Nature reserve usually opens from 10:30 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday.
Play Golf At Dawlish Warren Golf Club
Another fun thing to do in Dawlish is to go golfing.
The Warren Golf Club was established by the Earl of Devon on 23rd June 1892.
During the early days, the annual membership cost one guinea, which is £1.05 in today’s money
This golf club is located on the Dawlish Warren National Nature Reserve, this golf course links the south coast of Devon.
Nowadays, the club has 5 different membership plans, they are:
Juniors Under 12 yrs – £67
Juniors 13 – 17 yrs – £99
Age Under 23 yrs – £399
Age Under 30 yrs – £499
Full Membership – £729
This golf club features a golf course with 18 holes.
The course also has beautiful views of the Exe Estuary to enjoy and the sea just over the sand dunes.
This golf club is located at Warren Golf Club, Dawlish Warren, Devon EX7 0NF, and opens every day from 7 am – 7pm
Have Fun at Dawlish Funder Park
Another place you should consider visiting whenever you are in Dawlish is Funder Park.
This theme park is a fun-filled destination for both families and adventure seekers.
The theme park features different types of rides including roller coasters, water slides, a spinning coaster, and different types of carousels.
Apart from the rides, this theme park also offers different carnival activities like ring toss and whack-a-mole.
If you’re coming with your kids, you can take them to the kids’ area.
The kid’s playground features smaller rides, a mini coaster, a boat ride, and a soft play area where kids can jump up and down.
The Funder Park usually opens by 10 am and closes around 7 pm.
So if you are looking for fun things to do in Dawlish with your kids, then consider visiting this place.
Check out the Famous Dawlish Sea Wall
The Sea Wall is one of the most popular attractions in Dawlish, it is approximately 2 miles long, and it stretches along the coast.
The sea wall was built in the 19th century after a strong storm that affected the city.
Over the years the government has improved and reinforced the sea wall, the last major renovation took place after a severe storm that ripped the wall in 2014.
Nowadays, the Dawlish Sea Wall does not serve only as a structure, but also as a popular tourist attraction.
Visitors come from all over the world to admire the breathtaking views of the sea and the town from the wall.
It takes about 30–45 minutes to walk from the beginning of this wall to the end.
You will also find bars and restaurants around, in case you want to take a drink or eat.
The Dawlish sea wall is also a good place to take pictures since it is a popular spot for photographers, who come to capture the dramatic beauty of the sea and the wall
So if you want to enjoy fresh sea air and the stunning views of the coast while chilling then I suggest you visit here.
Visit The Dawlish Museum
Located in the coastal town of Dawlish, in the county of Devon, England, the Dawlish Museum is one of the most fascinating museums I’ve seen.
The museum showcases the history and heritage of Dawlish and its surrounding area, from prehistoric times to the present day.
One of the things that makes this museum stand out from other museums I know, is its large collection of geological items, like fossils, rocks, and minerals.
The Dawlish Museum also has a wide collection of historical artifacts, including tools, pottery, and clothing.
These artifacts give us a glimpse into the lives of people who lived in the area in the past.
Tourists who visit this museum can also learn about how historical activities like the English Civil War and the wool trade boom affected Dawlish.
The Museum is located along Baron Terrace, and it usually opens by 11 am from Monday to Friday.
If you’re a history buff like me, then I suggest you add check this place out.
Relax At The Manor Gardens
Sometimes when I’m looking for a fun thing to do, I don’t want to engage in activities that will require energy.
Sometimes we just want to chill and relax.
If you’re looking for a place where you can just relax, then I suggest you visit the Manor Gardens.
Manor Gardens is a beautiful, picturesque public park, and it covers approximately two acres of land
The gardens were originally home to a manor house that was built in the 19th century.
During the early 20th century, the manor house was demolished, and it was converted into a public park.
One of the things that attracts people to this place is the garden.
The garden features beautiful floral displays that can be seen throughout the year.
It features a different variety of flowers, including roses, hydrangeas, and dahlias
Due to its beautiful scenery and tranquil atmosphere, the Manor Garden is a great place to visit if you just want to chill, relax or have a picnic.
Take A Ride At Dawlish Miniature Railway
Another fun thing to do in Dawlish is to take a ride at the Dawlish Miniature Railway.
This railway features a miniature train that runs along a track that is approximately one mile long.
The train itself is a replica of a traditional steam locomotive, complete with a bright red and green paint job and authentic steam effects.
The train moves by means of a miniature locomotive, which adds to the charm of the experience.
The train ride takes passengers on a scenic journey, during this short trip passengers can have a crystal clear view of the surrounding landscape.
The Dawlish Miniature train tickets cost £6 – £20
Explore the nearby town of Teignmouth
Apart from exploring popular tourist attractions, another thing you can do whenever you visit a town as a tourist is to check out the neighboring town.
So if you are in Dawlish, one of the nearby towns recommend you visit is Teignmouth.
Teignmouth is a fantastic destination for those looking to explore the surrounding area of Dawlish.
Teignmouth is just 5 miles away from Dawlish, making it a quick trip by car or public transportation.
The trip takes less than 15 minutes, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or a quick afternoon excursion.
One of the most fascinating attractions in Teignmouth I recommend you visit is its beautiful beach, the beach is approximately a mile long
The beach also offers a wide variety of fun activities like swimming, sunbathing, water sports, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
Apart from the beach, other popular tourist attractions you can check out our Teignmouth Old Walls Walk, Teign Heritage Center, and Pavilions Teignmouth.
So if you’re looking to explore the surrounding area of Dawlish, then Teignmouth is a fantastic destination.
Visit The Dawlish Waterfowl Park
Waterfowl Park is one of the most fascinating parks/nature reserves I’ve seen.
This park is home to waterfowl and other wildlife, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
The Dawlish Waterfowl Park covers 8 acres of land and features a range of habitats, including ponds, meadows, and woodlands
The ponds are home to waterfowls, swans, geese, ducks, and herons, while the surrounding meadows and woodlands offer a habitat for a range of other bird species.
One of the main attractions of the park is its peaceful and quiet atmosphere.
The park offers a quiet and serene space for visitors to relax and unwind, surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature.
The park’s beautiful scenery and diverse wildlife make it a popular spot for photographers and artists, who come to capture the beauty of nature.
Check Out The Shaldon Wildlife Trust
Located on the outskirts of Dawlish, The Shaldon Wildlife Trust is one of the attractions that is worth visiting.
This wildlife trust is dedicated to protecting endangered species around the world.
This wildlife trust is home to different species of animals, including primates, birds of prey, small mammals, and reptiles.
The animals are housed in habitats that are designed to mimic their natural environments, so they can receive the best possible care and quality of life.
Whenever you can engage in a range of activities and experiences, including guided tours, animal encounters, and feeding sessions.
This wildlife is also focused on raising awareness of the importance of conservation and how we can help in protecting endangered species
If you’re interested in learning more about wildlife without having to visit a forest or safari, then I suggest you check out this place.
This place is open to people of all ages.
Conclusion
There are so many amazing things to do in Dawlish, This is truly one of those touristy cities in the United Kingdom where you don’t feel much impact of tourism on the locals.
The people of Dawlish are very proud of their city and their customs and it will be hard to change that.
Still, I highly encourage you to practice responsible tourism and respect the culture and people to do your part in keeping Dawlish such a confounding travel destination.
With that said, If you have any questions, let me know in the comment section