Please note, the UK is currently under a national lockdown, please do not travel. These suggestions are for future reference only.
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Sidmouth really is the jewel in Devon’s crown, but you don’t have to take our word for it, here are some of the reasons why Sidmouth is the best place in the world and why you should consider adding it to your list of staycation spots for 2021.
The Festivals are returning
With everything that happened in 2020, many of the big annual events held in Sidmouth were either postponed, cancelled or headed online. We still got to enjoy a couple of folk performances from artists who would have been at the folk festival and the Science Festival went ahead online.
Many of the events we missed out on have already announced their dates for 2021, with the Air Show, the Regatta, the Folk Festival, the Science Festival and a whole load more already planned.
The iconic Jurassic Coast
Sidmouth is right along the Jurassic Coast, where you can enjoy views of the incredible red cliffs, enjoy a spot of fossil hunting on the beach and explore the South West Coast Path. There are a number of boat trips and cruises around the Jurassic Coast allowing you to see the cliffs in their full glory from the ocean.
Incredible edibles
Being based on the coast, Sidmouth has an abundance of fresh, seasonal fish and seafood. It is the place to go for fish and chips on the beach, a lobster dinner or a crab sandwich or two! Not into seafood? That’s fine, the surrounding countryside produces amazing home grown fruit and veg and home reared meat and poultry – this alongside locally produced gin, cider, wine and beer can all be found in restaurants, cafes, hotels and pubs in the town giving you a real taste of east Devon!
Beautiful countryside walks
As well as being right on the seafront, Sidmouth is surrounded by glorious countryside and has a number of beautifully maintained parks and gardens. The East Devon AONB is just a stone’s throw from the town centre, while Connaught Gardens, Blackmore Gardens and The Byes all offer wonderful places to enjoy the peace and quiet, soak up the sun and enjoy the incredible creations from the Sidmouth in Bloom team.
You can live like a royal
Sidmouth being the jewel in the crown isn’t the only connection it has to royalty. The town was once the home to Queen Victoria, long before she was crowned, you can in fact stay in the very building she occupied as a child! Not only that, but other members of the royal family from across Europe have spent time in Sidmouth, you can find out more information about them and their time in the town by looking out for the Blue Plaques which are dotted around the town and tell Sidmouth’s wide history. Connaught Gardens is even named for one of Queen Victoria’s sons and with the vast array of Regency style buildings and former Victorian mansions now being used as hotels and guesthouses, there is a real grand atmosphere.
These are just a few of the reasons why you should consider a staycation in Sidmouth in 2021. Remember, do not travel if you feel unwell or if you or someone in your bubble have tested positive for coronavirus. Before travelling, please check the latest guidance on travel and for updates on travel restrictions, you can find more information on gov.uk/coronavirus.