Day 1: We arrive at our hotel in Dawlish, on the delightful Devon Coast, in time for dinner.
Day 2: Today is free at leisure to do as much or as little as you like. You can relax in the sun in the hotel gardens with their stunning views of the expansive beaches or maybe take a dip in the outside pool. Perhaps take a scenic stroll to the charming seaside resort of Dawlish. With its wonderful golden, sandy beach the town also offers a range of amusements. The centrepiece of the town is the lawn with its outdoor bowling green, bandstand and deckchairs and the brook with its famous Black Swans, the town’s unofficial emblem. There’s also a varied selection of shops including high street names and smaller independents as well as lovely cafes and restaurants.
Day 3: This morning we travel to Exmouth for a circular cruise on the nationally renowned River Exe, an important habitat for wading and migrating birds. Sailing on the calm and sheltered waters of the Exe estuary our skipper will provide live commentary on the history of the area and the wildlife. We may even see one of the resident seals, which frequent the area for its plentiful food and sunbathing hotspots. After our leisurely cruise, we make our way to Exeter, one of the most vibrant, attractive and historically fascinating cities in England. With its magnificent cathedral, Underground Passages, Free Red Coat guided tours, imposing Roman wall and the award winning Royal Albert Memorial Museum, where visitors can explore the city’s 2,000-year history. There’s also fantastic shopping opportunities and the beautiful quayside with its buzzing atmosphere and eclectic mix of cafes, restaurants and bars.
Day 4: We enjoy a morning at leisure in the Regency town of Sidmouth, which nestles between red cliffs on Devon’s Jurassic Coast and exudes timeless English charm. We have time to stroll the seafront to discover the town’s lovely beaches, admire the beautiful gardens and Georgian architecture, explore the friendly shops, and relax over lunch at your choice of the many stylish restaurants. This afternoon, we make our way to Bicton Park Botanical Gardens. Home to many rare and beautiful species collected from around the world, spanning nearly 300 years of gardening history. With over 64 acres of beautiful gardens with sweeping lawns, elegant water features, fragrant English borders and formal gardens. There is also the Bicton Woodland Railway, Palm House, historic glasshouses and Countryside Museum. During our visit we will also enjoy a delicious Devon cream tea.
Day 5: After breakfast, we make our way home.