Exeter St Davids to Dawlish 26th January 2026

Ride the Legend – Exeter St Davids → Dawlish on a GWR Class 150 (26 January 2025)

Step aboard a piece of living history and let the rails carry you through a journey that’s been thrilling travelers for more than 150 years. On 26 January 2025 the sleek, reliable GWR Class 150 diesel‑multiple‑unit will whisk you from the historic heart of Exeter St Davids straight to the iconic seaside town of Dawlish – a route that has become the poster child of British coastal rail travel.

A Route Steeped in Heritage

The line you’ll travel on is a jewel of the Great Western Railway legacy. Opened in 1846 as part of the original South Devon Railway, it was engineered by the visionary Isambard Kingdom Brunel to conquer the wild cliffs and sweeping seas of Devon. The spectacular Dawlish sea‑wall, a marvel of 19th‑century engineering, runs alongside the track, hugging the Atlantic and offering passengers an unforgettable “train‑on‑the‑beach” experience that has been immortalised in postcards, films and countless rail‑fan memories.

Through two world wars, the line remained a lifeline for troops, supplies and holiday‑makers alike, proving its resilience against the elements and time. In the 1960s the iconic British Rail Class 150 units were introduced, replacing older steam‑hushed carriages with modern, air‑conditioned comfort while preserving the soul of the route. Today, that very same class‑150 family continues to serve the line, blending heritage with today’s expectations for speed, reliability and accessibility.

Why the GWR Class 150 is the Perfect Companion
Comfort Meets Classic Charm – Spacious interiors, large panoramic windows, and a smooth ride let you soak in the dramatic coastline without the jostle of older stock.
Eco‑Smart Travel – Modern diesel technology paired with efficient fuel management means you’re travelling greener than a car journey, while still preserving the historic character of the line.
Reliable Service – GWR’s rigorous maintenance schedule ensures the Class 150 runs on time, every time – crucial when you’re planning a magical winter escape to Dawlish.
Accessibility for All – Low‑floor entry, dedicated spaces for wheelchairs, and tactile surfaces make the journey inclusive, honoring Brunel’s original vision of a railway for the people.
What Awaits You at Dawlish

When the train rolls into Dawlish, you’ll step out onto a town that feels like a seaside postcard come to life. The iconic black‑and‑white striped pier, the salty breezes, and the ever‑present roar of waves against the sea‑wall create a sensory symphony that’s impossible to replicate elsewhere. From cozy cafés serving Devonshire cream teas to coastal walks that plunge you into the Atlantic’s turquoise depths, Dawlish is a destination that rewards every traveller who arrives by rail.

Make This Journey Yours – Book Early, Travel Smart

The 26 January 2025 service is a limited‑time window that promises an unforgettable winter coastal adventure. Secure your seat now to guarantee a spot on the iconic Class 150, and enjoy early‑bird perks:

Priority boarding – Beat the crowds and settle into your seat with time to spare.
Complimentary hot chocolate – Warm up as you glide past the frosted cliffs.
Exclusive “Rail‑Heritage” guide – A pocket‑sized booklet detailing the fascinating engineering feats and stories that shaped this line.

Don’t let this historic ride slip by – be part of a living legacy that has linked Exeter and Dawlish for generations.

Share Your Adventure

We love seeing your memories! Tag your photos, videos, and stories with #greatwesternrailway #gwr #gbrailways #trainsimworld6 to join a community of rail enthusiasts, historians, and wanderers who celebrate the magic of British rail travel.

Book now, board with pride, and let the GWR Class 150 turn a simple trip into a timeless tale.

Travel responsibly. Check the latest health and safety guidelines before you journey.


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