Mount Pleasant Inn

Perched on the edge of the cliffs in Dawlish Warren, this pub overlooks the expanse of the Warren nature reserve and the curve of the coastline towards Orcombe Point. The building itself combines traditional Devon architecture with practical additions, such as large windows that frame the sea in almost every direction from the dining area. Visitors often arrive via the winding road from Dawlish town, finding ample parking that spares them the crowds below at the beach and visitor centre.

The menu draws heavily from regional suppliers, with dishes that reflect the area’s farms and fisheries. Starters might include fresh seafood options like prawn cocktails or smoked mackerel pâté, while mains range from grilled steaks cooked on black rock stones to hearty pies filled with local meats and vegetables.

Vegetarian choices appear regularly, such as roasted butternut squash risottos or halloumi burgers. The Sunday carvery stands out as a weekly fixture, featuring slow-roasted joints with all the trimmings, including Yorkshire puddings and seasonal greens.

Desserts lean towards classics like sticky toffee pudding or fruit crumbles, often made with berries from nearby orchards.

Drinks cover a broad selection, from Heavitree Brewery ales on tap to a list of wines that pair well with the food, plus barista coffees for those preferring something lighter.

Facilities cater to various needs, with a main bar area for casual drinks, a restaurant section focused on meals, and a function room for private gatherings. The terrace outside provides outdoor seating when the weather allows, ideal for watching the tides shift or spotting wildlife in the reserve below.

Dog owners will appreciate the pet-friendly policy in certain areas, and families have access to a children’s menu with smaller portions of popular items. The staff, many of whom have worked there for years, handle everything from quick lunches to extended celebrations with efficiency.

Events add to the appeal, with the specials board changing to incorporate seasonal ingredients, perhaps crab from local catches in summer or game in autumn. The pub also hosts occasional themed nights, though the core draw remains the consistent quality of the fare and the uninterrupted vistas. Accessibility involves a short climb from the car park, but once inside, the layout suits most, with level flooring and wide entrances.

Beyond dining, the location ties into broader activities in the area. A path nearby leads down to the Warren’s dunes and golf course, or along the coast towards Dawlish’s famous railway line. Birdwatchers frequent the spot for sightings of waders and seabirds, visible even from the pub’s windows on clearer days. In quieter months, it serves as a refuge from the elements, with log fires warming the interior.

The place rates highly with many reviews, where praise centres on the exceptional views, quality of the food, and attentive service from the team. Some note the decor carries a dated feel, and opinions on value split, with a few finding portions generous while others consider costs on the higher side for the setting.