Dawlish

South West Coast Path: Holcombe Section Shutdown from Sea Wall Issues

South West Coast Path: Holcombe Section Shutdown from Sea Wall Issues

The South West Coast Path follows the southwest’s edges, stretching over 1000 kilometres from Somerset through Devon, Cornwall, and into Dorset. In the Teignmouth to Dawlish part, it runs close to the railway on red sandstone cliffs, blending flat sea wall walks with steeper paths past Smugglers Lane, overlooking the Teign estuary.

The closure affects the Holcombe beach steps and nearby path, made unsafe by tidal erosion to the wall. Repairs started right away, but no firm reopening date is set beyond the initial 21-day period. This highlights the coast’s vulnerability, where storms often challenge structures.

Walkers should check the route changes page for updates. Options include low-tide beach routes or inland paths via East Cliff Walk and the A379, linking back later. Tide times and weather matter for beach alternatives, as surges can occur.

The area parallels Brunel’s 1840s railway, which faced a big breach in 2014 at Dawlish. Network Rail works on resilience, like rockfall nets near Parsons Tunnel.

When accessible, this segment appeals for its ease and views. It rates highly with many reviews, highlighting the level walks with passing trains and climbs over Lea Mount for estuary sights, plus birdwatching at the Teign mouth or folklore-linked rocks like Parson and Clerk. Some walkers point out erosion and suggest good footwear for inclines. Nearby, Dawlish Warren offers dunes and wildlife, while Teignmouth has cafes and links.

Such events stress adaptive upkeep amid changing weather. Until fixed, try nearby sections like from Dawlish Warren north.

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