Crossed Anchors Brewery

The smell hits you first when you walk into Crossed Anchors - that unmistakable blend of hops, grain, and something altogether more hopeful. This Dawlish brewery has quietly carved out a reputation for proper craft beer, the kind that tastes like someone actually knows what they're doing rather than just chasing trends.

You can visit the brewery itself and watch the process unfold, though it's worth checking their website first for opening times and whether tours are running that day. They've got a taproom where you can sample their range, and the staff will actually talk you through what you're drinking rather than reciting a script. The beers lean toward traditional styles with local character - nothing pretentious, just well-made ales that work.

It's a solid half-day activity if you're staying at one of the nearby parks like Dawlish Sands or Haven Devon Cliffs, both within striking distance. Families with older kids will manage fine; small children might get restless once they've watched the tanks for ten minutes. Beer enthusiasts will spend longer, naturally. The real appeal is that it's low-key and genuine - no forced jolliness, no overpriced merchandise you don't need.

Pair it with a walk down to Dawlish seafront afterwards, which is properly lovely and takes the edge off brewery tours if you're driving. Summer weekends get busier, so go midweek if you can.