Things To Do
in Sidmouth
Sidmouth is a charming seaside town located in Devon, United Kingdom. It is known for its stunning red cliffs, pebble beach, and beautiful gardens. The town has a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful getaway.
Visitors can enjoy coastal walks, explore the town's quaint shops and cafes, and take in the picturesque views of the Jurassic Coast.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along the beautiful Sidmouth coastline. Enjoy the stunning views of the Jurassic Coast as you breathe in the fresh sea air.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café, followed by a visit to the Sidmouth Museum. Immerse yourself in the town's rich history and unique heritage.
Dine at a seaside restaurant with stunning views of the sunset. Spend the rest of the evening enjoying live music at a local pub.
Spend your morning soaking up the sun at Sidmouth Beach. Build sandcastles or take a dip in the refreshing water.
Grab some iconic fish and chips for lunch nearby. Spend the afternoon exploring the beach shops and enjoying some ice cream.
Take a relaxing stroll along the beach as the sun sets. Enjoy a beach bonfire if permitted, or relax at a nearby café.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and stunning beaches.
- Rich history and attractive Georgian architecture.
- Pleasant climate, particularly in the summer months.
- Strong sense of community and friendly locals.
- Access to nearby nature reserves and walking trails.
- Vibrant local arts scene and cultural events.
- Good selection of local shops, cafes, and restaurants.
- Limited job opportunities, especially for younger people.
- Higher cost of living compared to some nearby areas.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
- Limited public transport options.
- Fewer amenities and entertainment options compared to larger towns or cities.
- Potential for isolation due to geographical location.
- Risk of flooding in some areas due to coastal vulnerability.
Best Activities in Sidmouth
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy stunning views while walking along this UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its unique geology and fossil-rich cliffs.
Relax on the pebbly beach, enjoy swimming, or partake in various water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking.
Take a leisurely stroll through these beautifully maintained gardens, featuring lovely views of the coast and a variety of plants.
Cycle along the scenic trail that follows the Exe Estuary, enjoying picturesque views and wildlife along the way.
Visit the nature reserve for bird watching, where you can spot a variety of species in their natural habitat.
Spend a peaceful day fishing at the harbour, with opportunities to catch a range of fish species.
Try your hand at surfing at this popular surfing spot, with lessons available for beginners.
For the adventurous, enjoy paragliding for breathtaking aerial views of the coast and countryside.
Tours
Uncover the best of Sidmouth with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Sidmouth
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque parkland area along the River Sid, offering scenic walks and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and cliffs.
Famous for its stunning red cliffs and pebbled shore, Sidmouth Beach provides numerous opportunities for striking coastal photographs, especially at sunset.
These beautifully landscaped gardens offer panoramic views of the coastline and are an ideal spot for capturing floral beauty alongside breathtaking sea vistas.
A hill that provides a hiking trail with rewarding views of the Jurassic Coast. From the summit, you can enjoy expansive views perfect for photographs.
A lovely promenade along the front of Sidmouth, ideal for capturing the charm of the seafront, and bustling activity of the beachgoers.
Offers a stunning viewpoint with sweeping views over the town and East Devon coast, particularly striking during clear days.
A tranquil spot ideal for photos, where the river meets the sea, and boats dot the water, providing a serene backdrop.
Food in Sidmouth
Sidmouth Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential English delight, comprising scones served with clotted cream and jam. Best enjoyed at one of Sidmouth's traditional tearooms like The Byes Tea Rooms.
Must-Try!
Sample succulent crab meat in a sandwich, a local specialty due to Sidmouth's proximity to the sea. The Sea Shanty Beach Cafe is renowned for its fresh crab sandwiches.
Indulge in a classic Beef Wellington, a hearty dish with tender beef encased in flaky pastry, found at The Blue Ball Inn known for its superb rendition.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Sidmouth better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the Sidmouth Street Market to explore a wide range of street food options, from artisanal pizzas to gourmet burgers and global cuisine. Don't miss the falafel stand for delectable vegetarian delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
People in Sidmouth, as in much of the UK, value politeness and good manners. Always use 'please' and 'thank you,' and be courteous in conversations.
Sidmouth is known for its beautiful coastline and natural surroundings. It's important to treat the environment with respect, avoid littering, and follow local guidelines when visiting natural sites.
The British are known for their orderly queuing. Whether at shops, bus stops, or any public place, it's considered respectful to wait in line without cutting ahead of others.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Sidmouth with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Sidmouth
Ensure a smooth experience
In Sidmouth, as in much of the UK, tipping is generally not compulsory but is appreciated for good service. For restaurants, it is common to leave a 10-15% tip if service is not included in the bill. In pubs, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is customary. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is also a common practice. Hotel staff may be tipped for exceptional service, but it's not a strict expectation.
Payment methods in Sidmouth are quite varied. Cash is still accepted, but card payments are prevalent, with many establishments also offering contactless payment options. Digital payment methods like mobile wallets are becoming increasingly popular. In restaurants, it is common to pay the bill at the end of the meal, while in cafes and shops, payment is expected at the point of sale.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Sidmouth.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a lovely time to visit Sidmouth. The temperatures begin to rise, ranging from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F), and the gardens come alive with colorful blooms. Expect pleasant walks along the coastline and fewer crowds compared to summer.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Sidmouth. Expect warm temperatures averaging between 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F). The beaches are lively, and numerous events, festivals, and outdoor activities take place. However, it can be crowded during this period.
Autumn (September to November) sees a return of milder weather, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 17°C (50°F to 63°F). The fall foliage adds beautiful colors to the scenery. It’s a quieter time to explore the area, with some events still taking place.
Winter (December to February) is the coldest season, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Expect fewer visitors and a peaceful atmosphere. While some attractions may operate on reduced hours, it's a great time for quiet walks and enjoying the coastal winter landscape.
Sidmouth at Night
Hiking in Sidmouth
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning coastal walk offering breathtaking views along the Jurassic Coast, taking you from Sidmouth to Ladram Bay.
A popular hike featuring panoramic views of the coast and surrounding countryside, with varied terrain and well-marked paths.
A scenic riverside walk that is family-friendly and suitable for all ages, featuring a lush green pathway along the River Sid.
An elevated walk that takes you through woodlands and open fields, rewarding hikers with impressive vistas of Sidmouth and the coastline.
A beautiful stretch of the South West Coast Path, this hike allows you to explore the picturesque village of Branscombe alongside stunning clifftop views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Sidmouth through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Sidmouth by plane.
The closest international airport to Sidmouth, approximately 9 miles away, serving various domestic and European flights.
Located around 75 miles from Sidmouth, this airport offers a wide range of international and domestic flights.
Approximately 60 miles away, featuring domestic services and flights to several European destinations.
About 70 miles from Sidmouth, primarily serving domestic flights with some seasonal international connections.
Located roughly 100 miles away, it offers numerous international flights along with domestic services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Significant proportion of residents are older adults, making up a large demographic group in Sidmouth.
This group represents a substantial segment of the population, often involved in local communities and activities.
Includes working professionals and younger families, contributing to the local economy.
A smaller demographic group, including school-aged children and young adults in education.
The Soul of Sidmouth
Discover the essence of Sidmouth through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular summer sport in Sidmouth, with various clubs and a strong community following.
Widely played at both amateur and youth levels, with local teams participating in regional leagues.
The Sidmouth Rugby Club is active in the community, hosting matches and training for various age groups.
The Sidmouth Tennis Club offers access to courts and organizes tournaments throughout the year.
Due to its coastal location, sailing is a popular pastime, with opportunities for both leisure and competitive sailing.
There are many scenic routes around Sidmouth, making cycling a popular activity for both locals and visitors.
Lawn bowls has a dedicated following in Sidmouth, with clubs offering facilities for players of all ages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sidmouth.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Sidmouth's eateries are attentive to vegetarian and vegan preferences, with many establishments offering dedicated menus and imaginative dishes perfect for plant-based diets.
Visitors with gluten restrictions will find accommodating options throughout Sidmouth, with numerous venues serving gluten-free dishes, indicating the town's inclusive approach to dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Sidmouth with these cultural adventures.
