Sidmouth Travel Guide

Discover all the things to do, see, and experience in Sidmouth, Devon. This guide provides an overview of the must-visit attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local customs, safety and health, transportation options and logistics, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Sidmouth

Sidmouth is a stunning seaside town located in Devon, a county in the West Country of England. It is situated in the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and surrounded by breathtaking countryside, picturesque villages, and hidden coves. The town itself boasts a charming mix of Georgian and Regency architecture, beautiful gardens, and a variety of restaurants, shops, and galleries.

List of Places to Visit in Sidmouth

Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, Sidmouth has something for everyone. Here are the must-visit attractions in Sidmouth:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sidmouth Museum: Located in the heart of the town, this fascinating museum sheds light on Sidmouth’s rich heritage and history.

  • The Byes: A beautiful riverside park that stretches from Sidmouth to Sidford. It provides a great space for relaxation and picnics.

  • Connaught Gardens: A spectacular rockery garden perched on the cliffs of the town. It offers stunning sea views and a perfect spot for sunset watching.

Natural Attractions of Sidmouth: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Salcombe Hill: A great spot for hiking and walking. From the top of the hill, you can see stunning scenery from Dorset to Exmoor.

  • The South West Coast Path: This walking trail runs for 630 miles along the coast. Sidmouth provides a great section of the path with some of the best views.

  • Jacob’s Ladder Beach: One of the most famous beaches in Sidmouth, it is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnics. It is also a great spot for rock pooling and fossil hunting.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sidmouth

Sidmouth is a popular destination for walkers and cyclists. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Sidmouth:

  • East Devon Way: A 40-mile trail running from Exmouth to Lyme Regis passing through picturesque villages and stunning countryside.

  • Sidmouth to Beer: A scenic ride along the coast to the picturesque fishing village of Beer.

  • The Otter Trail: A 25-mile trail running along the River Otter from Sidmouth to Exeter.

Best Things to Do in Sidmouth: Activities and Tours

Apart from exploring the town and its surroundings, there are plenty of fun activities to do in Sidmouth. Here are some of the best:

  • Jurassic Paddle Sports: A great way to explore the coastline from a new perspective by kayak or paddleboard.

  • Sidmouth Ghost Walks: A spooky yet informative guided tour of Sidmouth’s haunted history.

  • The Donkey Sanctuary: A visit to the sanctuary is a must. It is a great family day out, and you can even adopt a donkey.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sidmouth

Day 1: Explore the town’s attractions such as the Sidmouth Museum, Connaught Gardens, and enjoy an afternoon tea in one of the quaint tea rooms.

Day 2: Take a hike to Salcombe Hill and enjoy the wonderful views. In the afternoon take a stroll through The Byes and enjoy a picnic by the river.

Day 3: Visit Jacob’s Ladder Beach and enjoy rock pooling and fossil hunting.

Day 4: Take a cycle ride from Sidmouth to Beer and explore the picturesque fishing village.

Day 5: Visit The Donkey Sanctuary and adopt a donkey.

Day 6: Take a kayak or paddleboard trip with Jurassic Paddle Sports and explore the coastline from a new perspective.

Day 7: Visit the nearby town of Branscombe and explore its historic buildings and the beach.

Food and Drink Scene of Sidmouth

Sidmouth has a vibrant food and drink scene, with plenty of great restaurants, cafes, and pubs. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cream tea: A quintessentially English treat - scones served with clotted cream and jam.

  • Fresh seafood: Sidmouth is renowned for its fresh seafood, and you must try fish and chips from The Clocktower.

  • Devonshire ice cream: A creamy and delicious treat, try some Devonshire ice cream from The Dairy Shop.

Local Beverages

  • The Sidmouth Brewery: Try a pint of the local brew at one of the town’s pubs.

  • Lyme Bay Winery: Visit the winery’s shop and taste some of their award-winning wines.

Where to Stay in Sidmouth: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sidmouth has a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the best:

  • Hotel Riviera: A luxurious hotel with sea views, just a few steps away from the town center.

  • The Groveside Guest House: A charming B&B with spectacular sea views and garden views.

  • Hostel Lympstone: A budget-friendly hostel located a short drive from Sidmouth, perfect for backpackers.

What to Buy in Sidmouth: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Sidmouth has plenty of quirky and unique shops selling souvenirs, gifts, and local products. Here are some of the best:

  • The Dairy Shop: Offers a wide range of Devonshire cheeses, clotted cream, and ice cream.

  • The Wine Circle: A wine and spirits shop selling locally produced wines, spirits, and liqueurs.

  • The Bookshop: A quirky independent bookstore that sells a range of new, second-hand, and rare books.

Local Culture and Customs of Sidmouth

Sidmouth is known for its friendly and welcoming locals, and it has a rich cultural heritage that is celebrated throughout the year. Here are some of the local customs and traditions:

  • May Day: A traditional celebration that takes place every year on May Day bank holiday. It includes Morris dancing, a procession, and crowning of the May Queen.

  • Folk Week: A week-long festival that celebrates folk music, dance, and song. It takes place every August and attracts visitors from all over the world.

Best Time to Visit Sidmouth

Sidmouth is a popular destination year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months (April-September) when the weather is warm, and the town is alive with events and festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sidmouth

Do:

  • Explore the town and its surroundings on foot or by bike.

  • Interact with the locals and learn about the town’s rich cultural heritage.

  • Enjoy a cream tea in one of the tea rooms.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the town’s natural surroundings.

  • Ignore the safety rules when hiking or biking.

  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sidmouth

Sidmouth is a safe destination to visit, but it’s always better to take precautions. Here are some safety tips:

  • Be vigilant of your surroundings and avoid walking alone in isolated areas.

  • Always follow the safety guidelines when hiking or biking.

  • Be aware of the tides when on the beach.

Health in Sidmouth

Sidmouth offers excellent medical facilities, and visitors have access to doctors, dentists, and hospitals. The town also has several pharmacies and health shops selling essential health products.

Getting to Sidmouth: Transportation Options and Logistics

Sidmouth is well connected by road and rail, and there are several transportation options available to reach the town.

Airports Near Sidmouth

  • Exeter Airport: Located just 8.7 miles away from Sidmouth, with regular domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Sidmouth

  • Sidmouth bus station: Served by several local and regional bus services.

Other Options

  • Car: Several car rental companies operate in Sidmouth, and it’s a great way to explore the town and its surroundings.

  • Taxi: There are several local taxi services available in Sidmouth.

How to Get Around in Sidmouth

Sidmouth is a compact town that is easy to explore on foot or by bike. There are also several local bus services that connect the town to other nearby destinations.

Where to Go Next from Sidmouth: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sidmouth is located in a stunning part of Devon, and there are several nearby destinations that are worth exploring. Here are some of the best:

  • Branscombe: A picturesque village with a stunning beach.

  • Exeter: A vibrant and historic city with museums, galleries, and stunning architecture.

  • Dartmoor National Park: A vast and wild landscape with walking and hiking trails, and plenty of wildlife.

Conclusion

Sidmouth is a charming and beautiful town that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or adventure, you will find plenty to see and do in this stunning part of Devon. With its excellent food and drink scene, fantastic accommodation options, and friendly locals, Sidmouth is a must-visit destination in the West Country of England.

Sidmouth Sea front Sidmouth Sea front