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Dawlish

Anyone travelling on the train between Exeter and Plymouth can not help noticing when they pass through Dawlish. Firstly the train is right next to the sea and secondly the cliffs are bright red.

Like most of the other towns in Devon, Dawlish has a long history dating back to pre Roman times. The Celts first used the area for processing salt. The origins of the name itself are unclear as it has been seen with different spellings, but one theory is that it was derived from 'Deawlisc', meaning 'Devil Water', possibly a reference to the red water from the cliffs. One thing that is definite is that there have been several variation and spelling of the name over the centuries.

Dawlish park
Dawlish beach

There is an old town, but a lot of Dawlish changed during the Victorian times when tourism first became fashionable.

Dawlish has a lot of appeal with its traditional town on a river, with landscaped gardens the best known being called The Lawn.There are also plenty of shops and long beaches nearby.

During Victorian times, Charles Dickens and Jane Austen were once visitors. More unusual visitors who have stayed are some black swans that have been introduced from Australia.

It is fair to say that it has not lost any of its appeal since Victorian days and Dawlish has that timeless seaside resort appeal.

Also nearby is Dawlish Warren where there is a good beach and holiday park.

Dawlish Hotels
Dawlish Cottages

Dawlish Warren cliffs