Sidmouth has some of the best scenic walks in the south west, which is hardly surprising when you have the Jurassic Coast right on your doorstep and being located in the middle of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There’s something special about going for a walk in the winter sunshine and then stopping off at a pub or two for refreshments on your journey. Here are a few suggestions for great winter walks around Sidmouth and the Sid Valley.
Mutter’s Moor and Peak Hill
This 3.3 mile circular walk takes you through the East Devon AONB, starting at the Mutter’s Moor car park, the route takes you through the history of the area and by visiting at this time of year you can enjoy the abundant wildlife and see the trees change as winter takes hold. As this is mostly flat and not too far to walk, this is an ideal one for the whole family to join in on.
The Byes Riverside Walk
This is a shorter walk and is easily accessible from Sidmouth Town Centre. The Byes are incredibly pretty, no matter when you visit and with the number of footpaths and open space, you can easily social distance while exploring. Plus dogs are allowed everywhere but in the community orchard, as long as they are on a lead.
South West Coast Path
The trail between Sidmouth and Exmouth on the South West Coast Path is one of the most beautiful routes along the coast. The whole route between Sidmouth and Exmouth is over 12 miles long, but the path features lots of exits and entrances, so you can walk as much or as little of it as you like. The path from Sidmouth along to Budleigh Salterton is around 6 miles, or the path from Sidmouth to Otterton is 3 miles. Some parts of the Coast path can be steep and in bad weather can be slippery underfoot, so make sure to wear good shoes and to be aware of your surroundings at all times.
Salcombe Hill Circular Walk
Another circular walk is the 5 mile route from Sidmouth to Salcombe and back. The walk takes you along a section of the South West Coast Path, to the Donkey Sanctuary and then into Salcombe Regis. There are some amazing views from Salcombe Hill, so have a camera at the ready.
Do you have any other suggestions for great walks to enjoy this winter? You can let us know on Twitter and Facebook.