Manor Hotel

Grand Victorian architecture dominates the seafront here, where this former railway hotel still cuts an impressive figure against Dawlish's coastal backdrop. Built in the 1860s to serve the Great Western Railway's expanding network, the Manor Hotel represents the golden age of seaside tourism when steam trains first brought holidaymakers to Devon's red cliffs. The building's ornate facade and period details tell the story of when Dawlish was positioning itself as a premier resort destination. Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the hotel's distinctive design, which reflects the confidence of Victorian railway companies in their coastal investments. The structure serves as a landmark for understanding how the railway transformed this stretch of Devon coastline. Families staying at nearby Haven Devon Cliffs or Dawlish Sands Holiday Park will find it makes for an interesting detour during a coastal walk. The hotel sits prominently enough that you can't miss it if you're exploring Dawlish town centre. While you can't tour the interior unless you're a guest, the exterior alone warrants a look for anyone interested in railway heritage or Victorian seaside development. It's particularly photogenic against the dramatic red sandstone cliffs that make this part of Devon so distinctive. Allow twenty minutes for a proper look and perhaps a coffee if the hotel's public areas are accessible.