Sidmouth may be best known for its beautiful coastline and Regency heritage, but look a little closer and you will discover a thriving creative side to the town. From contemporary exhibitions and independent galleries to historic architecture, live performances and creative workshops, there are plenty of ways to experience arts and culture during a visit to Sidmouth.
Whether you are passionate about art, enjoy discovering local history or simply like exploring somewhere at your own pace, you can easily spend a day getting to know Sidmouth through its creative and cultural scene.
Start your day with art by the sea
Begin your day with a stroll along Sidmouth seafront before heading into the town centre. The coast has long been an inspiration for artists, and it is easy to see why. The distinctive red cliffs, Regency architecture and views across Lyme Bay provide an ever-changing backdrop to the town.
Make your way towards Sidmouth School of Art, where you can discover a changing programme of exhibitions, installations and creative projects. The organisation plays an important role in bringing contemporary art into the heart of the town, with exhibitions that showcase both local and visiting artists.
It is a great place to start exploring Sidmouth's creative side and see how art continues to form part of everyday life in the town.
Discover Sidmouth's creative community
Continue into the town centre and take some time to explore Sidmouth's independent shops, galleries and creative spaces. From artwork and photography to crafts, gifts and locally made pieces, there are plenty of opportunities to discover something a little different.
Keep an eye out for Sidmouth Wallspace, an outdoor exhibition space that brings art into the streets of the town. Its changing displays mean there is often something new to discover, adding another dimension to a walk through the centre.
For those who enjoy getting involved rather than simply looking, East Devon Art Academy offers opportunities to explore your own creativity through art and learning. Whether you are an experienced artist or simply curious to try something new, creative activities can be a great way to experience Sidmouth from a different perspective.
Take a break for lunch
By now, you will probably have worked up an appetite. Fortunately, Sidmouth has plenty of cafés, restaurants and independent places to eat, many within easy walking distance of the town's galleries and attractions.
Take your pick from a leisurely lunch in the town centre or head back towards the seafront for something with a view. This is a day to take your time, so there is no need to rush from one attraction to the next.
After lunch, why not browse some of Sidmouth's independent shops? You may find everything from locally produced artwork and crafts to books, antiques and unusual gifts, making shopping another way to discover the creative character of the town.
Explore Sidmouth's history and heritage
Art and culture in Sidmouth are not limited to contemporary exhibitions. The town's history is part of what makes it such an interesting place to explore.
Take a walk through the streets and look beyond the shops to appreciate Sidmouth's Regency architecture and historic buildings.The town developed as a fashionable seaside resort in the Georgian and Regency periods, and traces of that heritage can still be seen today.
A visit to Connaught Gardens is another opportunity to combine history, landscape and creativity. Set above the seafront, the gardens provide beautiful views across the Jurassic Coast and are a peaceful place to pause after exploring the town.
You can also take a closer look at the architecture around the town centre, where historic buildings sit alongside contemporary businesses and creative spaces. It is this combination of old and new that gives Sidmouth much of its character.
Spend the afternoon exploring more art
If you have time, return to the town's galleries and exhibition spaces to see what else is on during your visit. Sidmouth's cultural programme changes throughout the year, with exhibitions, workshops, performances, talks and events offering different ways to experience the arts.
The town also has a strong connection with music and performance, with events taking place throughout the year. From local performances and community events to larger festivals and cultural celebrations, there is often something happening beyond the traditional gallery setting.
Check what's on before you visit and you could finish your day with an exhibition, performance or creative event.
Finish your day by the coast
After a day spent exploring Sidmouth's cultural side, head back towards the seafront for an evening stroll.
Take in the views across Lyme Bay, watch the changing light over the cliffs or find somewhere to enjoy dinner before settling in for the evening. After all, one of the best things about experiencing art and culture in Sidmouth is that it does not stop when you leave a gallery. The town's coastline, architecture, gardens and surrounding landscape are all part of the experience.
From contemporary art and creative workshops to historic buildings and cultural events, Sidmouth offers plenty of opportunities to see the town differently.
So, whether you are planning a dedicated arts and culture break or simply want to add something creative to your next seaside visit, take some time to explore the artistic side of Sidmouth. You may discover that there is much more to this coastal town than first meets the eye.