Dawlish
Dawlish is a charming coastal town on the south Devon coast, renowned for its distinctive red sandstone cliffs and the famous railway line that runs directly along the seafront. The town gained particular fame in 2014 when storms dramatically destroyed sections of the sea wall, capturing national attention. The settlement traces its roots back to Saxon times, though it developed significantly during the Victorian era when it became a fashionable seaside resort. The town's most celebrated residents are the black swans that glide gracefully along The Brook, a stream flowing through the town centre to the sea. These elegant birds were introduced in the 1900s and have become an iconic symbol. The distinctive red cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop, their warm ochre tones creating spectacular photography opportunities. The beach itself is a mix of sand and shingle, sheltered by cliffs and popular with families. The South West Coast Path passes through Dawlish, offering spectacular clifftop walks. The town is easily accessible by rail on the Exeter to Plymouth line.