The Lawns, Dawlish (also known as Dawlish Water)

Introduction

Dawlish Water began to attract visitors at the end of the 18th century. The Gentleman's Magazine described it in 1793 as 'A bathing village where summer lingers and spring pays her earliest visits'. In 1803 the stream was straightened so that it ran through a broad lawn. The Strand and Brunswick Place were laid out on either side. The layout, which remains remarkably intact, disregarded the sea entirely, unlike later resorts.