Dawlish is a fascinating little regency town huddled attractively between steep surrounding hills. There are several popular beaches here including Dawlish Warren – a popular destination in its own right. Meanwhile in the middle of the town there is a flat landscaped area called ‘The Lawn,’ home to various wildfowl and the famous Dawlish black swans.
Day 1 MONDAY Enjoy a leisurely journey to Dawlish, arriving during the afternoon.
Day 2 TUESDAY We visit Powderham Castle, the historic family home of the Duke of Devon dating from 1390, set in a beautiful deer park on the banks of the River Exe. We enjoy a guided tour through the majestic rooms, with fascinating stories from the castle’s rich history. Later, we return to the delightful regency coastal town of Dawlish for free time.
Day 3 WEDNESDAY We make our way towards Budleigh Salterton where we enjoy a visit to the privately-owned Bicton Park Botanical Gardens. Spanning nearly 300 years of horticultural history, these magnificent Grade I gardens are set in Devon’s picturesque Otter Valley. Following this visit, we re-join the coach and make our way to Sidmouth, where we enjoy free time to explore.
Day 4 THURSDAY This morning we journey to Buckfast Abbey. Later we enjoy a scenic drive through the beautiful Dartmoor National Park to Widecombe-in-the-Moor keeping an eye out for the wild Dartmoor ponies.
Day 5 FRIDAY Departing after breakfast we are homeward bound. With refreshment stops en-route, we return in the late afternoon.
Set in 19 acres of peaceful woodland overlooking the Exe Estuary and just a short walk from the beach via a public footpath, this is a gorgeous fourstar hotel. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, Wi-Fi, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. There is a restaurant, bar, lounge, garden, terrace, tennis court, snooker room, indoor and outdoor pool. Lift to all floors.
