Things to Do in Sidmouth

With its elegant seafront, striking red cliffs and location on the UNESCO Jurassic Coast, Sidmouth is one of East Devon’s most charming seaside towns. Whether you’re planning a relaxing day by the sea, exploring the South West Coast Path or discovering family-friendly attractions, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Sidmouth throughout the year.

From beautiful beaches and award-winning gardens to wildlife experiences and scenic walks, Sidmouth offers something for every visitor. Spend the morning exploring the town, enjoy lunch overlooking the sea, then head out to discover the surrounding countryside and coastline.

Enjoy Sidmouth’s Beautiful Beaches

A visit to Sidmouth wouldn’t be complete without spending time on its famous coastline. Sidmouth Town Beach stretches alongside the elegant Esplanade, where colourful beach huts, cafés and sweeping sea views create the perfect traditional seaside atmosphere.

Just along the coast, Jacob’s Ladder Beach is a favourite with families thanks to its rock pools, dramatic red cliffs and iconic wooden staircase leading up to Connaught Gardens. At low tide, it's a wonderful place to explore, while the surrounding coastline offers spectacular views across the Jurassic Coast.

Explore the Jurassic Coast

Sidmouth sits within the UNESCO Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, making it an ideal destination for anyone who loves the outdoors. The dramatic Triassic cliffs provide one of Devon's most recognisable landscapes, while the South West Coast Path passes directly through the town.

Whether you're looking for a gentle stroll along the Esplanade or a more challenging hike towards Peak Hill, High Peak or Salcombe Hill, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking coastal scenery. Keep an eye out for fossils along the shoreline and enjoy some of the finest walking routes in South Devon.

Visit The Donkey Sanctuary

One of the area's most popular attractions, The Donkey Sanctuary is just a short drive from Sidmouth and offers a fantastic day out for visitors of all ages. Home to hundreds of rescued donkeys, the sanctuary features scenic walking trails, beautiful gardens, family-friendly activities and a welcoming café overlooking the countryside.

Best of all, admission is free, making it one of the most enjoyable and accessible attractions near Sidmouth.

Discover Gardens and Green Spaces

Sidmouth is renowned for its beautifully maintained public gardens. Connaught Gardens sits high above Jacob's Ladder Beach, offering colourful displays, peaceful seating areas and panoramic coastal views. During the summer months, the gardens often host outdoor concerts and entertainment, making them a wonderful place to relax after exploring the town.

The nearby Byes is another local favourite, providing tranquil riverside walks through meadows and woodland that are perfect for a peaceful afternoon.

Discover the Town's History

Sidmouth's Regency architecture gives the town its distinctive character, while its long history can be discovered as you wander through its streets. Follow the Blue Plaque Trail to learn about famous residents and visitors, including literary figures and royalty, or spend time exploring the local museum to uncover the fascinating story of this much-loved seaside resort.

Enjoy Independent Shopping

Sidmouth's town centre is full of independent shops, boutiques, galleries and traditional retailers. Whether you're looking for locally made gifts, artwork, clothing or delicious Devon produce, browsing the town's welcoming streets is all part of the experience.

With plenty of cafés, bakeries and restaurants nearby, it's easy to spend a leisurely afternoon exploring before stopping for a cream tea or fresh seafood overlooking the sea.

Activities for Every Adventure

If you're looking for something more active, Sidmouth has plenty to offer beyond the beach. Paddleboarding and kayaking are popular during the warmer months, while the surrounding countryside provides excellent cycling routes and walking trails.

Families can enjoy rock pooling, wildlife spotting and picnics by the sea, while those seeking a slower pace can simply soak up the views from the Esplanade or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this classic coastal town.

Plan Your Visit to Sidmouth

Whether you're visiting for a few hours or staying for a longer coastal break, Sidmouth offers the perfect mix of seaside relaxation, outdoor adventure and timeless charm. From exploring the Jurassic Coast and strolling through beautiful gardens to meeting rescued donkeys and enjoying independent shops and cafés, there's no shortage of memorable things to do in Sidmouth.