Walking routes

Walkers can follow the South-west Coast Path in two directions to discover breath-taking coastline scenery. Walk along the sea wall to the resort of Dawlish Warren which has a sandy beach with the Exe estuary on one side and the sea on the other, attractions, various local facilities, and a wonderful nature reserve to enjoy. You can enjoy lunch or an evening meal at The Boat House Tavern and Grill with its outdoor seating looking out over the water.

The opposite direction takes you to the vibrant coastal town of Teignmouth with two beaches, a beautiful long promenade, pier, lighthouse, beach restaurants and pubs, where you can sit and watch the world go by. There is also a local ferry service running between Shaldon and Teignmouth, providing a charming link to local walks that extend along the coast. The service typically operates every day of the year except for Christmas Day and New Years Day. There is a slight charge for both adult and child foot passengers, but dogs travel for free.

You can also follow the river and explore a variety of walks along Dawlish Water.

For those guests who fancy a day with magical walking routes, waterfalls, wildlife and bike trails, head for a day in Dartmoor National Park and try take a picture at the gorgeous Becky Falls.

Dawlish Countryside Park is a wonderful location. A 65 acre open public space, there’s plenty for you to explore with great walking routes, woodland, grassland, viewpoints and more. 

Mamhead is a small rural village which has woodland trails available including the Mamhead Sensory Trail, which is actually part of Haldon Forest Park. The views from Mamhead Obelisk are also breathtaking, with views down to the coast and across the Exe Estuary.

Oaklands Wood is located to the south of Dawlish just off John Nash Drive and makes a great woodland stop off point if you’re heading to Teignmouth, Newton Abbot or along the coast. The woods were originally planted in part of the grounds of Oaklands House but are now open to the public. There is an extensive network of paths through the sweet chestnut, beech, oak and sycamore trees and the area is rich in birdlife, fungi and spring wildflowers.