Easy, accessible Devon walk for everyone! 🥾

An easy leg-stretcher from Dawlish, or an add-on to the Teignmouth to Dawlish hike, the Dawlish to Dawlish Warren walk is a glorious way to take in coastal and estuary scenery. 

It’s a straightforward route along the South West Coast Path, with the sea on one side and the railway line on the other. 

This 1.5-mile stretch is flat and paved, making it accessible for most walkers.

Here’s all you need to know about taking it!

Starting point: Dawlish

Begin your walk at Dawlish railway station. 

From there, access the sea wall by passing under the low railway bridge at the end of Dawlish Water. 

Turn left when facing the sea, and you’ll find yourself on the path leading to Dawlish Warren.

Along the sea wall

The path takes you past Buddy’s at Red Rock – stop for refreshments if you fancy!

The sea wall sees trains roaring along one side and uninterrupted views of the coastline on the other. You can enjoy Ore Stone near Torquay to the south and the cliffs of Beer and Portland to the east.

This path takes you all the way into Dawlish Warren! 

Dawlish Warren

Dawlish Warren is a popular part of Devon due to its glorious beach and National Nature Reserve.

The National Nature Reserve is known for its diverse birdlife and sand dunes. 

The area is also home to a beach resort – the beach is often rated Blue Flag and there’s a seasonal funfair.

Return options

For your return journey, you can retrace your steps along the sea wall or take the train from Dawlish Warren station back to Dawlish.

Not all trains between Exeter and Dawlish stop in Dawlish Warren, as it’s a secondary station – so look up times before you go. Trains are on average once an hour. 

The number 22 bus also connects the two spots.

Alternatively, you could walk up to Starcross (another 50 minutes/ 2.3 miles/ 3.7 km) and take the water taxi over to Exmouth! See things to do in Exmouth here. 

Tips for taking the Dawlish to Dawlish Warren walk

• Tide and weather: The sea wall can be hazardous during high tides or stormy weather. In such conditions, it’s advisable to take the inland route on the other side of the railway line.
  
• Accessibility: The path is mainly paved and flat, but it might not be accessible for wheelchair users. 
• Facilities: Public toilets and refreshment options are available in both Dawlish and Dawlish Warren.

You’ll love the Dawlish to Dawlish Warren walk!

It’s a family-friendly jaunt that’s accessible to most and can be enjoyed alone or tacked onto a longer hike. See my Teignmouth to Dawlish hike and Exmouth to Budleigh Salterton guide for some more ideas!