Sidmouth is a charming seaside town on Devon’s Jurassic Coast. It’s known for its dramatic red cliffs, peaceful gardens and timeless seaside appeal. It’s a wonderful place to explore with a bustling, friendly community, and offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re planning a short weekend away or a longer stay, our round-up of 10 things to do in Sidmouth is sure to have something for you.
Use the quick links below to go to a specific topic, or read on for our guide on things to do in Sidmouth:
Things to do in Sidmouth
1) Walk through Connaught Gardens
For a peaceful escape just moments from the seafront, Connaught Gardens offers a burst of colour and coastal views. The gardens are beautifully maintained and home to a selection of tropical plants, seasonal flowers, and a traditional bandstand that hosts occasional shows.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll, a relaxing picnic on a warm summer’s day, or coffee and cake at the popular Clock Tower Cafe. It’s a peaceful haven amongst the hustle and bustle.
2) Shop local on Sidmouth’s High Street
Sidmouth’s high street is lined with independent shops, making it an ideal place to visit in Sidmouth for some retail therapy.
From quirky gift shops and art galleries to traditional sweet shops and artisan food producers, there’s something to tempt every taste. Whether you’re after a souvenir to remember your trip or some delicious Devon fudge to take home, Sidmouth’s friendly shopkeepers have you covered.
3) Relax on Jacobs Ladder Beach
Located beneath Connaught Gardens, Jacob’s Ladder Beach is one of the prettiest spots on the Sidmouth coastline. If you’re looking for things to do in Sidmouth, this should be on your list.
Named after the white wooden staircase that connects the gardens to the pebble beach, it’s an ideal spot for swimming, rock pooling, and soaking up the scenery.
4) Step into history at Sidmouth Museum
Telling the story of the town and its surroundings, Sidmouth Museum is one of the most interesting places to visit in Sidmouth for history lovers. Exhibits cover everything from Sidmouth’s connection to Regency royalty, to its role within the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.
5) Experience the Sidmouth Folk Festival
If you’re visiting in early August, don’t miss the world-famous Sidmouth Folk Festival. Running since 1955, this week-long celebration of folk music and dance is one of the biggest events on the Devon calendar.
You can expect live music, workshops, bustling pubs, late-night dancing and more. Come and see a specific show, or simply explore the town during festival week and soak up the cheerful atmosphere!
For more events in Devon, check out our What’s On in Devon blog.
Attractions near Sidmouth
6) Visit The Donkey Sanctuary
The Donkey Sanctuary is one of the most heartwarming attractions near Sidmouth. Located just a 10-minute drive from the town centre, it’s home to hundreds of rescued donkeys and is free to visit. This Sidmouth day out offers scenic countryside walks, educational displays, and plenty of opportunities to meet the gentle residents.
If you fancy tying a walk into your visit, it’s a short stroll down to Weston beach, a peaceful and secluded shingle bay. After a busy morning of donkey-watching, the beach makes for a perfect spot to chill out with a picnic by the sea.
7) Explore the South West Coast Path
For walkers, one of the top things to do near Sidmouth is to lace up your boots and tackle part of the South West Coast Path. The stretch between Branscombe and Beer is a real highlight, offering spectacular cliff-top vistas, a mix of wooded trails and open headlands, and two of East Devon’s prettiest villages.
A 6-mile walk, the path is challenging at times with some steep climbs, but walkers are rewarded with some of Devon’s most dramatic views. There are plenty of fascinating features along the way, from pillboxes to caves, and the site of an 18th century landslip, now a unique and luscious habitat.
The peaceful village of Branscombe is also worth a visit. With its sheltered cove, historic thatched cottages, and welcoming village pub, it’s the ideal starting point for a walk.
8) Family fun at Crealy Theme Park
If you’re looking for attractions near Sidmouth that will keep the whole family entertained, Crealy Theme Park fits the bill perfectly. Packed with rides, play areas, and animal encounters, it’s a top choice for a full-on day of fun.
With indoor and outdoor areas, it’s also a great option if the weather isn’t on your side, making it a reliable crowd-pleaser throughout the year.
9) Birdwatching at Budleigh Salterton Wetland Reserve
A short trip along the coast takes you to the charming seaside town of Budleigh Salterton. There are some charming independent shops in the town, and the pebble beach is perfect for swimming or a barbecue.
However, a real gem here is the River Otter Estuary Nature Reserve, a haven for wildlife lovers. This peaceful reserve is home to a variety of birds, including kingfishers and waders, and offers gentle walking trails, perfect for nature enthusiasts and anyone looking to escape the crowds.
National Trust near Sidmouth
10) Discover A La Ronde
National Trust members and history buffs will love exploring the many National Trust properties in Devon. One we believe should be added to your list is A La Ronde in the nearby town of Exmouth.
This 16-sided house, built in the 18th century, is filled with eccentric charm — from its shell-encrusted gallery to the collection of souvenirs gathered on a Grand Tour of Europe.
Other National Trust Properties near Sidmouth include Branscombe, Shute Barton, Killerton House, Ashclyst Forest, and Clyston Mill.
Where to stay in Sidmouth
Whether you are looking for a pet-friendly getaway, a last-minute break, or a quaint shepherd’s hut, you’ll find a wide selection of self-catering properties to suit your every need. Start planning your Devon adventure today with Helpful Holidays.
