This picture , along with several others from this same location , is taken from Langstone Rock at the point where the main lines turn away from the sea wall and head northwards inland past the River Exe estuary and on to Exeter St. Davids. The rock provided a fine vantage point , especially for railway photographers
The impressive sea defences are clear to see , but the most exposed section lies ahead of this train , unprotected by the shelter of the estuary and open to the ravages of the open sea from here down to Teignmouth.
Dawlish Warren station is in the background , and there are camping coaches visible to the left of the main line with the Dawlish Warren amusement park in the right background.