Sidmouth
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Sidmouth is a charming seaside town located in the East of Devon. With its Regency history, popular beach and friendly residents, it’s no wonder that Sidmouth has been a firm favourite among families and holiday makers since Queen Victoria herself was an infant. In fact, she was one of many visitors to the town and began a royal connection that has endured through the years. Her son, the Duke of Connaught gave his name to the beautiful Connaught Gardens which can still be found in Sidmouth and are admired from visitors all over the world. According to the Poet Laureate, John Betjeman, Sidmouth is: “A town caught still in a timeless charm” and never a truer word was spoken.
Sidmouth’s location is one of the reasons why it is such a popular destination, not only does it sit along an impressive coastline, but it is also surrounded by spectacular countryside which gives it a real rural feel. The town is also graced with a number of grand hotels, stylish diners and bistros and great shopping opportunities.
The beach
Sidmouth can be found along the Jurassic Coast which is famed for its dramatic cliffs and stunning scenery. Sidmouth Beach is the perfect spot for families as it is known for being a safe place to swim and explore. The pebbled Millennium Walkway makes it ideal for walks whatever the weather and with the chance to find evidence of the Jurassic residents at low tide when rock pools form, families with children of all ages return year after year.
The South West Coast Path can be accessed from the town allowing you to explore the nearby villages of Branscombe and Beer as well as the town of Seaton and then further on to Budleigh Salterton.
If being outside is an important aspect to your trip, Sidmouth is the ideal location, the town itself is within the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty providing a pleasing landscape with woods, heathland, hilltops and Mutters Moor where you may be lucky enough to spot rare birds.
Family Friendly Attractions
Because of its popularity with holiday makers, Sidmouth is home to a number of Devon’s top attractions, so whether you want to spend the day enjoying the town’s Regency heritage which is still evident with the buildings, perusing the many gifts on offer at the high street shops or spending the day at an award-winning park, there is something to suit everyone. One of the most popular attractions is the Sidmouth Donkey Sanctuary where you can meet over 500 rescued donkeys or enjoy the natural world with additional activities at the nearby World of Country Life.
Depending on what time of year you choose to visit Sidmouth, you have the chance to get involved in a number of popular, annual events. Every summer the town hosts the Sidmouth Literary Festival and later in August, the world famous Sidmouth Folk Week and the Sidmouth Regatta are held. These events always draw a huge crowd with their live performances, activities and workshops, they’re a great way to while away the hours while in the town.
Explore Sidmouth
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Learn MoreFrequently Asked Questions
Where can I park in Sidmouth?
There are several car parks in Sidmouth, including:
Ham East and Ham West
Manor Road
Bedford Lawn
Roxburgh
Sidford
Temple Street
Peak Hill
There are some free car parking areas at Temple Street and Peak Hill.
Find car parks in East Devon
Does Sidmouth have a sandy beach?
Sidmouth Beach is a beautiful expanse of sand and shingle beach, clean, accessible, and surrounded by awe inspring cliffs that make the beach feel very secluded. Sidmouth is known as the gateway to the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. Sidmouth town beach is a sand and shingle beach perfect for families to spend a day. You will also find Jacob's Ladder Beach next to the town beach.
Find out more about Sidmouth town beach