Dawlish Warren

Dawlish Warren National Nature Reserve is an area of sand dunes, mudflats and beach that lies at the mouth of the River Exe. The site provides a major roosting site for wading birds and migratory waterfowl.

It is also an important for its botanical interest, being one of only two sites in Britain where the Sand Crocus (Romulea columnae) grows. Visit in summer to see Southern Marsh Orchid, Marsh Helleborine and Evening Primrose.

For birdwatching, visit the hide that overlooks the Bight and the estuary, on the northern side of the Warren. (NB. Currently, summer 2022, hide is closed – observe birds from nearby.) Unfortunately, due to recent storm damage, the dune path has been washed away in places, and you need to walk along the beach up to groyne 18 and double back along the path to reach the hide. As a result, access may be cut off at high tide.

July onwards is a good time to see a variety of terns.  September is a good time to look out for migrating waders, such as Curlew Sandpiper and Little Stint, alongside the more common Dunlin and Ringed Plover. In winter the number of wading birds & ducks increases, including Sanderling and large flocks of Oystercatcher and Brent Geese.

Park in the main Dawlish Warren car park – charge (SX980786; EX7 0PQ).