Dawlish's Wild Pollinator Trail 2026

About: 

Throughout May 2026, Dawlish burst with colour as the first Wild Pollinator Trail brought together pollinator-friendly spaces from across the town.

From window boxes and hanging baskets to gardens, allotments and community spaces, the trail showcased how small actions can come together to make a big difference for bees, butterflies and other pollinators.

The trail encouraged residents and visitors to explore pollinator-friendly spaces created by local residents, businesses, organisations and community groups across Dawlish, while highlighting the important role pollinators play in healthy ecosystems, thriving gardens and our food systems.

By celebrating simple, everyday planting, the Wild Pollinator Trail demonstrated how communities can help create a more connected, wildlife-friendly Dawlish and encouraged people of all ages to engage with nature and biodiversity in their local area.

Children taking part in the trail searched for hidden pollinator pictures displayed in participating shop windows, helping them discover the importance of pollinators in a fun and engaging way.

Winners of the trail competition were announced at Turn the Tide Festival on Saturday 23 May 2026.

Competition Winners:

Large Garden: Cathy Johnson

Small Garden: Brian White

Youth Group: 1st Dawlish Scouts Group

Community Garden: Eco Church, St Gregory's

The organisers would like to thank everyone who entered and contributed to creating a more pollinator-friendly Dawlish.

We would also like to thank our judges for their time and support: Scott Williams, Deputy Mayor of Dawlish; Caroline Gibbons, Teignmouth & Dawlish Flower Club; and Georgia Brown, Turn the Tide Co-Director.

Launch Event:

Thank you to everybody who joined us at the launch event on Saturday 9 May 2026 at The Strand Centre, Dawlish.

The event featured trail map pick-ups, seed bomb making, children's activities, a live floristry demonstration from Caroline Gibbons of Teignmouth & Dawlish Flower Club, and an insightful talk from Roxy Honey of Grow Greener Co-operative.

The Wild Pollinator Trail was delivered as part of Turn the Tide Festival 2026 and celebrated the efforts of residents, businesses and community groups helping to create a more pollinator-friendly Dawlish.