Explore

Sidmouth is a town caught in timeless charm. Located along the Jurassic Coast with beautiful gardens, royal connections, fine hotels, clean beaches, access to the South West Coast Path, Nature Reserves and a real friendly and welcoming atmosphere, along with a Regency feel, there are plenty of places to explore.

Being based in the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the home of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sidmouth is a glittering jewel in Devon’s crown. You’ll find a pride in traditional service with a remarkable variety of shops and eateries in the bustling town centre, its own micro climate, dramatic cliffs, green hills and a host of sporting and leisure activities suitable for all.

Explore Sidmouth’s Natural Beauty

Sidmouth is a great place for anyone who enjoys the great outdoors. As well as the beautiful and dramatic UNESCO World Heritage Site which makes up the Jurassic Coast and the scenic beach areas, there are a host of cycle ways, walks and hikes and more to explore.

The South West Coast Path is Britain’s longest and most popular National Trail and it connects Sidmouth with other coastal areas across the south west. Whether you fancy a hike across the cliff tops, a short stroll or somewhere to pop out for a picnic or with the dog, there are plenty of routes and access points for you to enjoy. Head west towards Ladram Bay from the summit of Peak Hill with amazing views above Sidmouth or go east towards our neighbouring villages of Beer and Branscombe and see how the heritage of East Devon’s towns and villages has changed over the years. The South West Coast Path is just one of the many walking and cycling routes for you to explore, the East Devon Way is another option for you and is one of the most popular routes for Sidmouth’s annual walking festival.

Sidmouth is also home to one of the largest arboretums in the UK. The Sidmouth Arboretum covers the entire Sid Valley (a first in the UK) which has tree trails and walks giving you plenty of interesting wildlife and vegetation for you to explore while out and about.

If you fancy getting up some speed, take advantage of the cycle tracks, a popular and scenic route is along the purpose built cycleway that connect Sidford to the sea front.

Explore Sidmouth’s activities

Sidmouth has a strong connection to a wide range of water sports and adventure activities. Throughout the year, you’ll find a range of leisure activities including boating and fishing which take place from Port Royal. Thrill seekers can enjoy getting out on the waves and those that want to get out for something gentler can enjoy the activities offered by the sailing club.

For those that want to stay on dry land, Sidmouth offers chances to play cricket, golf, rugby, football and tennis and productions from ballet to theatre performances too. The Manor Pavilion Theatre is open all year round with a range of programmes and during the summer, you’ll find weekly concerts in the bandstand at the Connaught Gardens.

Throughout the year, you’ll find a host of festivals and events which are incredibly popular and bring visitors from all over the country. The famous Sidmouth Folk Week is one such festival along with the Sidmouth Regatta, Sidmouth Sea Fest, Sidmouth Walking Festival, Sidmouth Science Festival, Sidmouth Literary Festival and regular appearances from the Red Arrows as well as community and family friendly fairs and events.

Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it here in this lovely seaside town nestled beneath majestic cliffs of the Jurassic Coast and the green hills of the Sid Valley.

In this section

Beaches
Being located along the Jurassic Coast and with easy access to the South West Coast Path, you’re never too far from beautiful beaches when visiting Sidmouth. The town itself has two beach areas which have been split into two, Sidmouth Town Beach and Jacob’s Ladder.
Blue Plaques
Walking around Sidmouth Town Centre, you’ll likely spot blue plaques on some of the buildings and hotels. Explore the town’s past by following the heritage trail where you’ll be able to discover the rich history and heritage of this Regency seaside resort.
Dog Friendly
If you have a dog, you’ll know that our four legged friends are a huge part of the family, so naturally, you want them to come with you when you’re out and about and visiting new places. There are plenty of places for you to spend time exploring with your dog.
Floral Sidmouth
It isn’t just the gorgeous countryside and the spectacular coastline that makes Sidmouth so special, it has also been rated as Britain’s top floral seaside town! There are few things better than spending warm days wandering among beautifully landscaped gardens.
Local Villages
East Devon is a truly wonderful place to visit with everything from beaches to rural retreats, incredible delicacies and fascinating history told through a variety of heritage attractions. While we’re biased, we have to admit, there is more to the region than Sidmouth.
SW Coast Path
The South West Coast Path is England’s longest footpath running for around 630 miles and linking Minehead in Somerset through to Poole Harbour in Dorset. The path offers the ultimate challenge for the long distance walker or someone who just wants a quick coastal stroll.