While the days might be getting shorter and the weather colder, that doesn’t mean that you can’t get out and about and explore. The Byes is a beautiful place to visit whatever the season, so why not pull on your boots and enjoy the Byes Riverside Walk?

Of course, with the current situations regarding Covid-19, rules are constantly changing, so although travel for exercise is permitted, we don’t recommend that you travel from a Tier 3 area and to only travel if absolutely necessary. Please do check local restrictions before visiting and to make sure you follow all the current guidelines. If you feel ill, please do not travel – Sidmouth and The Byes will still be here when you feel better!


Image: @joes_photos_ on Instagram

If you’re a regular visitor to Sidmouth you’ll know that the Byes, located between Sidford and the Old Tollhouse in Sidmouth is one of the town’s most important green spaces. There is plenty of space (perfect for social distancing) and the fields and meadows that make up the Byes follows alongside Devon’s smallest river, the River Sid. The Byes is also recognised as a Nature Reserve and is ideal for anyone wanting to enjoy the great outdoors, even in the winter. It is one of the region's most beautiful places to while away the hours, whatever the weather. 

To explore the Byes, we recommend you start off in Sidmouth town centre and make your way to the Toll House, which is also on the Blue Plaque Trail and has a fascinating history of its own.

Starting here, follow the signs towards the bridge and head across the lawn where you’ll find plenty of trees and open space to enjoy. Keep walking north along the river Sid and this will bring you into the Byes proper, from here you can enjoy the Sid Meadow and the Community Orchard. If you’re feeling up for a challenge, you could continue through the Byes towards Sidford – it should take around 35 minutes depending on how fast you walk/ how many times you want to stop and take in the scenery. For those of you who want something a little less challenging, there is a path heading towards Fortescue allowing you to explore much of the Byes but offering a shorter walk. By following this path, you’ll end up at Soldier’s Hill, which is a great spot for bird watching.

Image: @berwickhouse.sidmouth on Instagram


Image: @laura.discovering.devon on Instagram

What are your favourite places to visit in the Byes? You can let us know on Facebook and Twitter!