History & Culture
Sidmouth is a town with a rich history and a fascinating culture which stems from its time as being a favourite among Victorian and Georgian families.
The Historical Roots of Sidmouth
Sidmouth's history dates back to ancient times, with evidence of settlements from the Neolithic period. The town's name is thought to have originated from the Old English word "Sige" meaning victory, and "mouth" referring to the river mouth.
Sidmouth has been a community for hundreds of years, it appears in the Domesday Book, which was published in 1086 under the name of Sedemuda, which translates as Mouth of the Sid, with the name coming from the River Sid which runs through the town and into the Sid Valley. It was listed as being a fishing village, like many of the settlements along the Devon coast.
In the 18th century, Sidmouth became a popular destination for tourists, particularly after the arrival of the railway in 1874. The town’s transformation into a fashionable seaside resort was greatly influenced by the vision of John and Sarah Kennaway, who developed the town and its surrounding areas. Their efforts resulted in the stunning Regency architecture that still defines Sidmouth today, with beautiful crescent-shaped promenades, elegant villas, and gardens.
Along the Esplanade, you can see several buildings which are now hotels that were built in the Regency era. While much of the South West was fashionable in Regency society, Sidmouth is special because of its Royal connections. In 1819, Edward, Duke of Kent, the son of George III, took a family holiday in the town, bringing his baby daughter, who went on to become Queen Victoria to stay at Woolbrook Glen.
Woolbrook Glen is now the Royal Glen Hotel – look out for the plaque marking their visit outside!
Regency Architecture: A Town Frozen in Time
Sidmouth’s Regency architecture is one of its most distinctive features, drawing admirers from all over the world. The town’s layout, with its iconic seafront, sweeping crescent, and carefully curated gardens, is a testament to the grand vision of the town’s developers in the 19th century.
A key landmark is the Sidmouth Esplanade, a long stretch of promenade that provides stunning views of the sea and surrounding cliffs. The Esplanade is home to several of Sidmouth’s Regency villas, many of which are still in use today. A stroll through the town’s streets offers a glimpse into a bygone era, with the well-preserved buildings showcasing the elegant Georgian and Regency style.
Sidmouth's Cultural Legacy
Sidmouth’s cultural heritage is just as rich as its history, and the town has long been a haven for artists, musicians, and performers. Every year, Sidmouth plays host to the famous Sidmouth Folk Festival, which has become one of the largest and most prestigious events of its kind in the UK. The festival, which celebrates traditional folk music, dance, and storytelling, attracts thousands of visitors from around the world, cementing Sidmouth’s reputation as a cultural hotspot.
In addition to the Folk Festival, Sidmouth is home to a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, theatres, and performance spaces. The Manor Pavilion Theatre is a beloved venue, offering a wide range of performances, from drama and comedy to live music and dance. Local artists frequently exhibit their work at the Sidmouth Art Gallery, providing a platform for creative talent to flourish.
The town also has a strong literary tradition, with several notable authors and poets having lived or worked in the area. Sidmouth was once home to the renowned writer and poet, John Keats, who visited the town in 1818 and was inspired by the stunning landscape. Today, visitors can explore the many literary connections the town has to offer, from quaint bookshops to historical landmarks associated with famous writers.
Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities in Sidmouth
Sidmouth is not only known for its historical and cultural offerings but also for its breathtaking natural surroundings. The town lies at the base of the majestic Sidmouth and Ottery St. Mary cliffs, which form part of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These dramatic cliffs provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and nature walks.
The nearby beaches of Sidmouth are ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering sandy shores perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, and leisurely strolls. The Sid River and the surrounding countryside offer peaceful settings for boating, fishing, and exploring the diverse wildlife that calls the region home.
Visit Sidmouth Museum
Sidmouth’s town museum is a haven for anyone wanting to find out more about the town’s history – covering the town’s heritage, the geological history of the Jurassic Coast and regular events, ideal whatever your age or prior knowledge. You can also learn more about the town on your own by following the Blue Plaques on Sidmouth’s heritage walk. Maps and routes can be picked up from the Tourist Information Centre.
A town full of culture
When it comes to showing visitors a good time, Sidmouth is up there with the best of them. The town’s Regency feel gives off a grand atmosphere which, combined with the extensive event calendar makes it a real cultural hub. There are regular performances at the Manor Pavilion arts centre and theatre, which is also home to the Radway Cinema. In the summer months, Sidmouth Town Band play a series of concerts in the Connaught Gardens every Sunday in the heritage band stand.
Like most of Devon, Sidmouth has a host of famous literary connections, including JRR Tolkien who had a holiday home in the town and is said to have written part of Lord of the Rings there and poet Elizabeth Barrett lived in the town for a number of years. It even appeared in several novels under different names like Beatrix Potter’s The Tale of Little Pig Robinson and Thomas Hardy’s Wessex.
This is one of the reasons why it is such a popular spot for bibliophiles who flock to the town during the annual literary festival.
Other festivals that take place regularly include the Sidmouth Folk Festival which takes place over a week in early August offering performances, workshops and children’s activities. You can also take part in a science festival, walking festival, the annual classic car show and the famous Sidmouth Regatta.