When we first knew that Rory would be spending three years in Exeter at University, all I imagined were long car journeys back and forth. It never occurred to me that this would be the ideal opportunity to see a part of the country I knew very little about. We have thoroughly enjoyed being in Exeter itself but have also had superb trips to Dartmouth and Lyme Regis.
Deciding to drop in on our only child for his 20th birthday, he benefited from two slap-up meals paid for by the bank of mum and dad whilst we made use of his day of lectures to explore on our own.
Dawlish is only about 12 miles from Exeter and is perfectly positioned on the coast with the railway line running just above the sandy beach and the lovely river, Dawlish Water, cascading gently through the town’s park, ‘The Lawn’, to the sea.
The railway line, running so close to the sea, is one of the country’s most interesting tracks. You might remember the storms of early 2014 which brought down part of the sea wall, leaving the railway line suspended in mid-air. Thankfully repairs have been made but there is a constant battle against the forces of nature here.
Dawlish is a very traditional, seaside town, with plenty of cafes, shops and a long stretch of beach. It must be wonderful in the summer months but even on a drizzly March day it was a super little town to visit and the sun came out in the afternoon to give us a flavour of what’s in store for visitors later in the year.
Here are a few snaps I captured on my phone:
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| Dawlish Water running through the town. |
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| The Lawn and Dawlish Water |
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| Footbridge across the river looking very spruce for early March |
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Dawlish is famous for its black swans which were introduced from Australia.
Chicks were due to hatch in a few days.
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| Shop famous for its pasties, cakes and doubtless its name too. |
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| Brightly painted beach huts all ready for the summer. |
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| Spring has sprung at St Gregory’s church |
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| A walk along the sea wall takes you past some urban art courtesy of local artist NME |
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| More Banksy-esque art from NME |
Exeter is a lovely place to study and visit. Your son chose well.
My parents enjoyed their visits to me when I was there too. I remember I went to a ball at the Double Locks pub. It's still there too, and still called The Double Locks (and not Slug and Lettuce, etc.).
there's a lot of 'children' from blogs I read that have gone to Exeter, I always have to double take as there are so many and think "oh yes, they are there as well!!" and so many parents enjoying weekends away. Lovely win-win.
Looks beautiful! Exeter is the last stop on the SW train line that drops you off where my Mum lives so I know all the names, I just need to visit now! 😀
I like this post! I love exploring new places and towns in England and enjoying joining you here. I think I might like to visit just to visit Gay’s Cremery!