Trains on the Dawlish sea wall:
Steam-hauled trains run along the Exeter to Paignton line regularly during summer Sundays. Watching the train go by at speed with the engine steaming is an unforgettable experience!
There are regular trains to Exeter, for city centre sight seeing and shopping, with its lovely traditional Cathedral, a newly developed Quayside and many shops and restaurants, theatre, arts cinema, etc. Totnes and Plymouth are also well served and there are buses to Newton Abbott.
As well as the ferry from Starcross, there is a boat trip from Dawlish which runs through the day during the summer.
Access:
Arriving by car on a summer Saturdays - approach Dawlish from Teignmouth, rather than Exeter, as the road through Starcross is very narrow and there may be delays.
Access from the Exeter Road is a steep path with one section of steps, around 30metres. The path is for public access to the beach as well as for the Watch House & cottages. You may have a short walk to find the car parking space, and a 5-10 minute walk to the High Street shops. The bridge over the railway to the sea wall has steps up and down, then flat walking along to the station and The Lawns, the centre of town, 5-10 minutes. The bridge marks the end of the platform, not a long way to the station!
A fold up bike is available on request.
Shopping and Eating:
A Welcome Pack with bread, milk and basic groceries can be arranged.
Dawlish is a thriving town with plenty of cafes, bars and wine bars, and good shops for daily shopping, snacks and baked goods. Try Gays Creamery on the Lawns (with the famous black swans), and Deli Delicious, where fish fresh from Brixham can be ordered. All are within 5-10 minutes walk.
The Old Brewery, close to Watch House is on the High Street and serves meals and there are family-style pubs on Marine Parade and a short walk away, Smugglers Inn at Holcombe along the coast path to the West (~30 minute walk) and at Dawlish Warren to the East (15-20 minutes walk).
The train provides an easy evening out, for instance to Exeter for a range of eateries, pizza, or vegetarian, or bistros and pubs in Teignmouth.
Walkers can try Cockwood, just beyond Dawlish Warren, whee there are two fine pubs for dining.
Golf:
There is a golf course at Dawlish Warren, a short walk away along the sea wall (or by road inland a little at high tide).
Other Activities:
Train watching, including live steam locomotives
