Things to do in Dawlish with Kids and Teenagers

Looking for fun activities to enjoy with your kids and teens in Dawlish, Devon? This lovely seaside town offers a wide range of things to do, from outdoor adventures to family-friendly attractions.

Whether it’s exploring the scenic Dawlish Warren Nature Reserve, enjoying the Funder Park fair, or discovering local history at Dawlish Museum, there’s something for every age and interest.

Read on for our top recommendations to keep both teens and younger kids entertained during your visit to Dawlish.

Have fun at Funders Park Fair, Dawlish Warren

Funders Park, located at Dawlish Warren, offers plenty of fun for all ages. Younger kids will enjoy the family-friendly rollercoaster, bumper boats, and slides, while teens will love the go-karts, pirate adventure golf, and one additional more thrilling ride.

My boys, aged 13 and 17, especially enjoyed the pirate ship—though not the wildest ride, it had them laughing non-stop.

Don’t miss a ride on the big wheel, where you can take in spectacular views of Dawlish Warren’s nature reserves and beaches.

The area also has arcades and amuseuments. We enjoyed some fish and chips on the grassy area near the fair too.

Enjoy a Walk at Dawlish Warren Nature Reserve

After the fun of the fair, why not embark peaceful walk at Dawish Warren nature reserve with the family?

The reserve spans over 500 acres of dunes, grasslands, and mudflats, providing a vital habitat for migratory birds and rare plant species.

We loved walking along the trails and take in scenic views of the estuary and beach, and enjoying some peace after the all the fun at the fair.

You can climb down onto the beaches of Dawlish Warren from the reserve. It’s a peaceful spot to enjoy a picnic, build a sandcastle and maybe paddle or take a dip in the sea.

There’s also a visitor centre which gives more information about the area.

Cycle the EXE Estuary Trail

Hire bikes at the Exe trail cycle hire shop for the family. Then embark on a stunningly beautiful bike ride along the Exe Estuary. The ride is fairly flat and has lovely views of the river and estuary.

If you want to make the ride a loop, head to Exmouth, then cross the town centre to the seafront, where you can catch the Starcross ferry back to the west side of the estuary and ride back to Dawlish Warren.

Find out more about the Exe Estuary Trail route.

Go on a Boat Ride

From mid July to September there are daily boat trips from Dawlish. Ranging from 30 minute trips to longer excursions, there is something to cater for kids and teens of all ages.

However, they only run if the sea is calm and some of the trips you have to book for so it’s best to check their Facebook page before you head out.

See the Black Swans at Dawlish Lawn and Dawlish Water

Dawlish is famous for being home to Black Swans. Head down to Dawlish Lawn (in the centre of Dawlish) and look out for the swans on the brook (the gentle stream that runs through this area).

There are also a variety of ducks here, so young kids can enjoy feeding the ducks and swans.

At the far end of the Lawn find a bowling green and bandstand. This is surrounded by a green open space which is great for games, picnics and chilling out.

Splat attack hosts outdoor games inspired by Fortnite, Paintball and Nerf for the family (kids aged 8 and above).

Dodge n’ duck gooey splats while running around a outdoor play area and looking for valuable loot.

Located in Dawlish Warren about 8 minutes walk from the train station. Pay and display parking is also available.

Follow the Dawlish Town Trail

The Dawlish Town Trail is a self-guided walk, perfect for families. Spanning 2 miles on mostly flat terrain, it’s an enjoyable route for kids. You can complete the whole trail or, if you have younger children, choose to explore just a portion.

The trail begins at the railway station and leads you through Dawlish’s historical sites, including the 15th-century St. Gregory’s Church, and continues to the scenic Dawlish Lawn and Water.

It’s a wonderful way to explore the town at your own pace. Why not treat yourself to an ice cream or pause for a picnic along the way?

Embark on a Treasure Trail

If your kids needs some encouragement to walk and explore an area, try a treasure trail.

A Dawlish treasure trail costs 9.99 and you only need to purchase one for 4 to 5 people.

The trail sends you on a spy mission where you have to stop Dr. Madden Badd’s plan to dye Dawlish’s black swans white.

Either download the trail to your phone, print it out at home or have a printed copy posted to you.

It’s 2 miles long and takes about 2 hours to complete. It’s ideal for ages 6 to 106 and you can complete it at your own pace.

Visit Dawlish Museum

Discover the history of Dawlish at the town’s museum. Learn about Dawlish’s maritime heritage, Victorian past, and development as a seaside resort.

Housed in a 19th-century building, Dawlish Museum is home to a range of exhibits, from period costumes to the Piper Bill Millins’ D-Day bagpipes.

Dressing up activities and a children’s black swan trail are perfect for entertaining the kids.

The museum is ideal for families to explore Dawlish’s history in a fun and educational way.

Set within beautiful deer-filled parkland, take a guided tour through grand rooms, which showcase centuries of history and architecture.

For children, the fun includes a woodland garden, a nature trail, and an play area. Additionally, kids can enjoy interactive activities like meeting friendly farm animals and exploring the Secret Garden, making it a fantastic family day out.

See the Animals at Shaldon Zoo

Shaldon Zoo, officially known as Shaldon Wildlife Trust, is a small but fascinating zoo located in Shaldon, about 4 miles from Dawlish. Nestled on the edge of the River Teign, this conservation-focused zoo specializes in caring for rare and endangered species. See a range of animals, including primates, small carnivores, reptiles, and birds.

With a strong emphasis on conservation and education it’s a fantastic place to learn about the animals you see.

Explore 12 miles of woodlands. It’s great outdoor fun, lots of mud and puddles with lots of family groups attending.

In the summer months, kids will also love the slip n slide activity.

Visit Teignmouth

Teignmouth is a picturesque seaside town located about 3 miles from Dawlish, Enjoy long sandy beaches and a walk along the south west coastal path (with a train track in the background)

We enjoyed Jurassic adventure golf and a walk around the town’s backstreets filled with independent shops, cafés, and galleries

Visit the harbour and hop on the oldest passenger ferry in the country to the nearby town of Shaldon. There’s also Teignmouth lido for a swim on a hot day.

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