The best walks and hikes around Dawlish
4.6
(1200)
16,645
hikers
59
hikes
Hiking around Dawlish offers diverse landscapes, from coastal paths along the English Channel to inland woodlands and estuary trails. The region is characterized by striking red sandstone cliffs, sandy beaches, and the significant Dawlish Warren National Nature Reserve. The Exe Estuary provides a scenic backdrop for walks, while areas like Oaklands Wood offer inland experiences.
Best hiking trails around Dawlish
- The most popular hiking route is Dawlish Warren nature reserve loop, a 4.0 miles (6.5 km) trail that takes 1 hour 38 minutes to complete. This easy route explores the sand dunes and coastal paths of the nature reserve.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Langstone Rock & Dawlish Warren loop from Dawlish, a moderate 5.4 miles (8.7 km) path. This route features coastal views and incorporates the distinctive Langstone Rock.
- Local hikers also love the Dawlish Sea Wall Path – The Lawn, Dawlish loop from Dawlish Warren, a 10.9 miles (17.6 km) trail leading through coastal areas and Dawlish town, often completed in about 4 hours 44 minutes.
- Hiking around Dawlish is defined by coastal paths, estuary trails, and inland woodlands. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to more challenging moderate hikes.
- The routes in Dawlish are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 80 reviews. More than 1300 hikers have used komoot to explore Dawlish's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 20, 2026
4.6
(5)
67
hikers
6.51km
01:39
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(6)
21
hikers
8.68km
02:17
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
105
hikers
5.44km
01:23
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(7)
213
hikers
6.30km
01:39
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.2
(20)
150
hikers
17.8km
04:48
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Dawlish
Tips from the Community
Give any train drivers a wave, and they will wave back! Take care whilst walking close to the beach drop.
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Great view, day or night. Be aware that the path up has seen better days and is really, really steep. I went down on my bum as I was on my own at night. Beautiful area, great connecting train line for easy forget-the-car holidays and seightseeing. Take a torch for evening/low light walks.
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This is a good vantage point from which to watch and photograph the trains running between Teignmouth and Dawlish. It's a great rail route, both as a rail traveller and as a walker on the South West Coast Path.
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The Lawn is a linear urban park laid out in the 1800s. Dawlish Water flows through and feeds the ponds. Dawlish is famous for the black swans that live here.
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The long sand spit of Dawlish Warren sticks out into the mouth of the Exe estuary. It's an important site for sea birds and other marine animals. The currents in the estuary are dangerous so you shouldn't swim at this end of the beach.
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Red Rock Beach is a sandy beach at the northern end of Dawlish Town Beach, near Langstone Rock. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing and fishing. You can also enjoy the views of the trains that run along the coast.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Dawlish?
Dawlish offers a diverse range of hiking experiences with nearly 60 routes recorded on komoot. These include easy strolls, moderate coastal paths, and a few more challenging options, catering to various fitness levels.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in Dawlish?
Yes, Dawlish has many easy options suitable for families. The Dawlish Warren nature reserve loop is an excellent choice, offering flat terrain through sand dunes and coastal paths, perfect for a relaxed outing. The reserve is also great for birdwatching.
What are the best circular walks in the Dawlish area?
For a scenic circular route, consider the Langstone Rock & Dawlish Warren loop from Dawlish. This moderate 8.7 km path provides stunning coastal views and incorporates the distinctive Langstone Rock. Another easy circular option is the Smugglers Lane Coastal Path loop from Dawlish.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Dawlish?
Many trails around Dawlish are dog-friendly, especially those along the coast and in designated countryside parks. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, particularly in nature reserves like Dawlish Warren, to protect wildlife. Please check local signage for specific restrictions.
What kind of natural features or landmarks can I expect to see while hiking?
Dawlish is renowned for its striking red sandstone cliffs and the expansive Dawlish Warren National Nature Reserve, which features sand dunes, wetlands, and rich birdlife. You'll also encounter the scenic Exe Estuary and the iconic Langstone Rock. For a longer trail, parts of the Exe Estuary Trail are accessible from Dawlish.
Are there any walks that include the famous Dawlish black swans?
Yes, the heart of Dawlish town features The Lawn, where Dawlish Water flows and is home to the famous black swans. A walk incorporating the Dawlish Sea Wall Path – The Lawn, Dawlish loop from Dawlish Warren will take you through the town and past this charming feature.
What is the best time of year to hike in Dawlish?
Dawlish offers pleasant hiking conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide mild weather and beautiful scenery, with fewer crowds. Summer is ideal for coastal walks and enjoying the beaches, while winter can offer dramatic coastal views, though some paths may be muddy or exposed to strong winds.
Are there any trails that offer views of the Exe Estuary?
Absolutely. Many coastal paths around Dawlish provide excellent views of the Exe Estuary. The Langstone Rock & Dawlish Warren loop from Dawlish and the Dawlish Warren nature reserve loop both offer expansive vistas across the estuary and out to sea.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Dawlish?
The hiking trails in Dawlish are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 80 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from stunning coastal views to tranquil nature reserves, and the variety of routes suitable for all abilities.
Are there any walks that go past Red Rock Beach?
Yes, you can explore the area around Red Rock Beach. The Red Rock Beach – Dawlish Sea Wall Path loop from Dawlish Warren is an easy 5.4 km route that takes you along the distinctive Dawlish Sea Wall and past this picturesque spot.
Are there options for public transport to reach hiking trailheads in Dawlish?
Dawlish is well-served by public transport, particularly its railway station, which is conveniently located for accessing coastal walks and the Dawlish Warren area. Many trails, including those around Dawlish Warren, are easily reachable by train or local bus services, reducing the need for a car.
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