Dawlish Warren is a great base for family fun, and some of the region’s best-value attractions are just around the corner.
There’s a lot to choose from, so we’ve selected the best in the area based on activity, budget, distance, and food and drink. We’ve also factored in the good old British weather, so you’re covered, whatever it decides to throw at you.
1. World of Country Life, Exmouth
Journey Time: 20 minutes by car. On-site parking.
Budget: One of the pricier days out in this guide, but it’s a full-day, all-weather attraction with animals, indoor play, museums, and daily shows included in your ticket price, along with some optional extras.
Attractions and Activities
Where to start? There are bunnies to cuddle, lambs to feed, goats to walk with, a pirate ship to explore, a vintage car museum, crazy golf, adventure playgrounds, and the famous Deer Train Safari, which takes you through the deer park and llama paddocks. These are just some of the many attractions to explore.
Top Tip: One day isn’t enough to see it all, so check out the website before you go to make the best of your visit.
With plenty of indoor and outdoor activities, you don’t need to worry about the weather, so if it starts to rain, there are lots of indoor animals and play areas to enjoy.
Food and Drink
Farmer Lee’s Food Barn has a varied and tasty menu. Pizzas and cheeseburgers, grilled chicken and falafels, delicious cakes and cream teas and lots more. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are available, and there’s a great kids’ menu as well.
Everything is locally sourced and made on the premises. You’ll find no junk food here.
Eat in the cafe or outside on the sunny terrace.
Bring Your Own
There are several picnic areas outside as well, so you can also bring your own food and enjoy the scenery at the same time.
World of Country Life is ideal for full-day trips, unsettled weather, animal lovers, car enthusiasts and anyone with a lot of energy.
2. Powderham Castle
Journey Time: 10 minutes by car. On-site parking.
Budget: A mid-priced day out compared with other local attractions. You can select different ticket options, including grounds only, and there are concessions available so you can tailor the visit to your budget.
Attractions and Activities
Discover this fascinating, 14th- century house with its spectacular State Rooms, Music Room and Marble Hall. Home to the same family for centuries, the castle has survived wars, intrigues and major remodelling. Discover beautiful old furnishings and portraits, and there are even secret doors and a haunted passageway.
Outside, you’ll find sweeping parkland with lovely views across the River Exe. Check out the Deer Park, the lovely Rose Garden and the Walled Garden – home to Harry the Donkey and Tessa the tortoise. There are seasonal music events and classic car shows as well.
Top Tip: Join a guided tour to learn about the history of this grand old building. There are knowledgeable guides to help you step back in time.
With plenty to see inside and out, the weather won’t spoil your day.
Food and Drink
The Shepherds Hut Café has lots of scrumptious options. Lunches, snacks, drinks, cake and some tasty ice cream – there’s something for everyone. Indoor and outdoor seating is available.
Bring Your Own
Prefer your own favourites? That’s no problem – head for the grounds where there are plenty of lovely spots.
Powderham Castle is great for history enthusiasts, wildlife fans, foodies and anyone who enjoys beautiful open spaces.
3. Haldon Forest Park
Journey Time: 20 minutes by car. On-site parking.
Budget: A very budget-friendly option. There’s no admission charge, simply pay for parking when you arrive, and the forest trails, viewpoints, and play areas are free to use.
Activities
Unwind in the great outdoors by exploring Haldon Forest. This lovely woodland area is perfect for hiking, cycling, Nordic walking, running or just a gentle stroll. There are all-weather cycling trails for intrepid enthusiasts, and you can bring your own bike or hire one at the Haldon Forest Bike Hire.
If you’re up for the challenge, check out the Tree Top Adventure with wobbly bridges, zip lines, ladders, ropes and nets high above the forest floor. The adventure must be pre-booked.
If that’s a bit too daring, relax in the wildlife hide and watch the natural world go by.
Top Tip
There’s a ranger’s office and toilets, but please remember this is a wilderness area. There are no litter bins (there are dog waste bins), so please take your rubbish home with you.
Food and Drink
Haldon Forest Park Café offers a seasonal menu with gluten-free and vegetarian options. Indoor and outdoor seating is available, and the café sits in the heart of the forest – the perfect spot to unwind.
Bring Your Own
There are picnic areas in the forest if you prefer to bring your own food.
Haldon Forest Park is best for outdoor activities. It’s open all year round, but you may prefer to visit in warmer weather, as there’s no rain cover when you’re out in the park.
4. Teignmouth Pier and Beach
Journey Time: 15 minutes by car, 20 minutes by train.
Budget: A very flexible day out that can be done on a tight budget. The main costs are parking and any treats like ice creams, arcades or boat trips. It’s easy to keep costs down with a picnic and a set spend for the pier.
Activities and Attractions
No visit to Devon is complete without a day at the seaside. Teignmouth is perfect for all the family in all weathers. Teignmouth town beach is the place for sandcastles, swimming and ice cream. If you prefer something quieter, the Teignmouth river beach is where fishermen moor their boats, and the views up the estuary to Dartmoor are stunning.
The Den is a great outdoor play park, with slides, swings, sports-courts and crazy golf, right by the beach. Don’t forget to check out Teignmouth’s Victorian pier with its traditional arcade games and spectacular views. If the rain starts, Teignmouth Museum is a good place to shelter and learn about the history of this lovely old town.
Top Tip
Roskilly’s seriously tasty cream is available on the pier, including vegan options. Don’t miss it – yum.
Food and Drink
There’s no shortage of options. Here are some popular choices.
The Ship Inn: Tasty, traditional pub food on Back Beach with seating inside and out.
The Blue Hut: Right on the seafront in the Strand area, serving burritos, chicken wraps and amazing coffee all day long.
The Jolly Good Fish Café: excellent fish and chips, a short walk from the beach.
Teignmouth is the perfect, traditional seaside location with plenty to do for all the family, whatever the weather.
The Perfect Base, Whatever the Weather
These great destinations are all within 20 minutes of Dawlish Warren, so it’s quick and easy to reach them, depending on the weather, your budget and what you fancy on the day.
If you’re staying at Welcome Family Holiday Park, you’re at the centre of all that South Devon has to offer.