As a local tourist on a day trip to Sidmouth, its timeless charm will become apparent quickly, with its breath-taking natural landscape complemented by classic Regency, Georgian, and Victorian architecture.
The town’s appeal earned it a historic stamp of approval from Queen Victoria, who named the beautiful Connaught Gardens after her son, the Duke of Connaught. Sidmouth is renowned for its Esplanade, stretching along the main beach and offering unrivalled panoramic views of Lyme Bay.
Step Back in Time
Connaught Gardens
Connaught Gardens is a must-visit in town, known for its well-maintained floral displays and scenic viewpoints overlooking the seascape. Established around 1820 as a private residence, it was acquired by the town council in 1930, which preserved the original house’s walls. Today, the gardens flourish with diverse plants.
Jane Austen
Sidmouth holds a special connection to the author Jane Austen. Some historians believe she may have met the love of her life there during a family holiday in 1801. Sidmouth features in her novel Persuasion, adding to the town's rich literary history.
7 Things to see and do
Head to the Beaches
The various beaches in and around Sidmouth are topped with pebble, shingle and dark red sand and the rock pools are a big hit with the children. When the conditions are right, surfers also venture out to catch a wave.
Go for a Walk
Take your pick from heart-pumping climbs along the town’s coastline path up to Peak Hill on one side and Salcombe Hill on the other, or head out for a gentle ramble along Sidmouth’s newly revitalised riverside walkway through the Byes, the town’s picturesque park. This route now features colourful storyboards, new railings, bat-friendly lighting, decorated benches and a brass rubbing trail. If you’re very lucky, you might even spot an otter. Naturally, be aware, the coastal paths around Sidmouth are prone to landslides, so do check local updates before setting out.
Take a guided tour
Want to learn more about Sidmouth’s rich history? Guided tours offer an informative and relaxing way to explore the town, giving you an authentic feel of its past. You can also pick up a copy of the Sidmouth Blue Plaque Trail to learn more about its historical landmarks.
Look to the Stars
The Norman Lockyer Observatory at nearby Salcombe Regis is a historical observatory and centre for amateur astronomy, meteorology, radio astronomy, and the promotion of science education. The observatory holds regular open days and evenings.
Discover a Haven for Rescued Donkeys
Located on the outskirts of Sidmouth, the Donkey Sanctuary offers a safe home for donkeys who have been neglected. Open year-round, it’s a delightful place to visit, and entrance is free.
Journey through History and Nature
Open until October 26, 2025, Sidmouth Museum has an extensive collection of fossils, minerals, and rocks, many sourced from the Sidmouth area and its cliffs, along with interactive digital displays showcasing the town's rich history.
Celebrate Music, Dance, and Culture
Sidmouth’s iconic Folk Festival has been a highlight of the East Devon calendar since the 1950s. Each year, over eight days in the summer, the town comes alive with music concerts, street theatre, storytelling, dance sessions, and more than 200 workshops. Sidmouth also hosts a popular Jazz and Blues Festival in May, showcasing musicians and bands performing jazz, blues, roots, soul, funk, Latin, and Cuban music. In addition, the coastal town hosts a Regatta Air Show each year at the end of August.
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