What did I know about Dawlish before yesterday.

There is a warren of static caravan parks. Acre upon acre of box dwellings with net curtains that occlude distant views of the sea.

On a stormy day waves break over the trains.

I have been through Dawlish hundreds of times , usually on a non stopping train.

Yesterday I was on a stopping train and I got off. Yesterday getting off the train I met some of the famous Black Swans.

Enjoyed a rhubarb and custard ice cream.

And was on a pristine beach less than 5 minutes after leaving the station.

Dawlish is a really pretty place. I imagine it might be hell on earth in the summer months. The amusement arcades are certainly a version of that. Monstrous plastic ‘Family Entertainment ‘ spaces eager to take money under bright lights and loud music.

More fool me allowing my prejudice against seaside tat and net curtains stop me from visiting somewhere less than an hour from home.

Travel does broaden the mind even if it doesn’t involve a lot of miles.