Top ten things to do in Sidmouth

3rd September 2021

Categories: Visitor News

If you’re taking a post summer break or looking forward to the October half term and need some inspiration, look no further than our top ten things to do when in Sidmouth.

Explore the Jurassic Coast

In Sidmouth we’re blessed with being right on the Jurassic Coast. This UNESCO World Heritage site has 95 miles of stunning coastline for you to explore. A trip to see these iconic red cliffs is an absolute must.

Visit the observatory

Located just outside Sidmouth is the Norman Lockyer Observatory, a main feature of the town’s annual Science Festival, the observatory is named after local man, Norman Lockyer, who discovered Helium in the sun’s corona in 1868. The observatory was named after him in 1920 and is now not just an historical observatory, but it’s also a centre for amateur astrologists.

Sidmouth Golf Club

Surrounded by stunning countryside and possessing some incredible views over the coast, Sidmouth Golf Club is close to some of the town’s premier hotels and welcomes both guests and members alike. Whether you want to have a go around the course or you just want to watch from the safety of the club house, this is a good, relaxing spot.

Sidmouth Museum

If you were fascinated by the history of the Jurassic Coast and the town’s Blue Plaque Trail, you’ll love spending time in the museum. Sidmouth Museum has something for everyone with exhibitions on natural history and the coastline, plus a range of activities to entertain the whole family.

Go shopping

Sidmouth is a haven for anyone looking for unique, beautiful items. There are a host of independent stores, including the iconic Crane and Kind, with its bright pink exterior, alongside recognisable high street names giving you plenty of options when it comes to finding gifts, clothes and homeware.

Get your steps up

Whether you are planning to take part in Sidmouth’s walking festival, something that takes place in September, want to follow the Blue Plaque trail or go exploring in the Byes or along the South West Coast Path, there are plenty of walking trails ranging in difficulty offering something for everyone.

Visit the donkeys

Sidmouth’s Donkey Sanctuary is free to visit, making it ideal for families or those on a budget. Plus you get to meet all the rescued donkeys whose antics provide hours of fun.

Go to a festival

There is always something happening in Sidmouth from the historic folk festival to the Science Festival and more – whatever time of year you plan to visit, there will always be something on the event’s calendar to keep you entertained.

Catch the rays in the gardens

Sidmouth is home to some of the most beautiful gardens in East Devon, so if you want to find somewhere picturesque to sit in the sun and relax, this is the town for you. Connaught Gardens can be found above Jacobs Ladder Beach and is lovingly landscaped by the Sidmouth in Bloom team. In the centre of town, there is also Blackmore Gardens where you can find a lovely cottage garden and a conservatory of exotic plants.

Enjoy some watersports

If you like thrill seeking or getting out on the waves, head to the front, particularly in the summer months and get involved in some of the many watersports on offer. From paddleboarding to boat trips, it is the only way to truly experience the vastness of those cliffs.