15 Must-Do Activities in Sidmouth for Families

Unusual & Best Things to Do in Sidmouth for Families

Looking for the best things to do in Sidmouth? This charming seaside town on the Jurassic Coast with a regency feel offers the perfect mix of scenic natural beauty, fascinating history, and classic coastal activities.

With its pebble beaches, dramatic cliffs, shops and eateries, Sidmouth makes for an idyllic day trip or weekend getaway.

In this blog, we will explore our top 15 best things in Sidmouth, ensuring that you make the most of your time in this beautiful town.

So, without further ado, let’s jump into the list.

15 Things to Do in Sidmouth

1. Relaxing on the Beach

Relax on the pebble beach and take in the beautiful views of Sidmouth’s esplanade and majestic red cliffs. Go for a swim or simply enjoy the seaside atmosphere.

2. Visiting Kennaway House

Explore Kennaway House, an elegant historic home dating back to the Regency period. Take a guided tour to experience the house’s period decor and impressive collections.

3. Walking Along the Jurassic Coast

Take a walk along the Jurassic Coast, with its spectacular rock formations and striking red cliffs that are part of a UNESCO World Heritage site.

4. Playing Mini Golf

Have some family fun putting your way through the 18-hole course at Sidmouth Putting Green. Test your skills on this mini golf course that both kids and adults will enjoy.

5. Seeing a Show at the Theatre

See a new show at the Manor Pavilion Theatre, which stages dramas, musicals, pantomimes, and other productions in its modern facility.

6. Swimming at Sidmouth Pool

Go for a swim or waterslide ride at Sidmouth Swimming Pool. This indoor heated pool is open year-round for leisurely swims.

7. Shopping in Town

Wander through Sidmouth’s town centre and browse the boutiques, gift shops, cafes, and independent stores. Find hidden gems and souvenirs.

8. Visiting the Donkey Sanctuary

Visit the Donkey Sanctuary and meet the rescued donkeys while learning about this charity’s animal welfare efforts. A family-friendly and educational experience.

9. Paddleboarding

Try stand-up paddleboarding by renting a board or taking a lesson. This is an enjoyable way to experience Sidmouth’s coastline from the water.

10. Relaxing in the Gardens

Marvel at the vibrant floral displays and relax among the lush greenery of the Connaught Gardens, landscaped over 150 years ago.

11. Taking a Boat Trip

Take a scenic boat trip along the Jurassic Coast from Sidmouth, and see the unique coastal geology and seabirds up close.

12. Eating Fish and Chips

Enjoy classic seaside food like hot fish and chips while sitting along Sidmouth’s promenade. The perfect meal with a view.

13. Visit Jacob’s Ladder Beach

No trip to Sidmouth is complete without a visit to Jacob’s Ladder Beach. The beach sits tucked beneath striking red sandstone cliffs decorated with green foliage. Whether you enjoy or picnic, a stroll along the beach, or a swim in the sea, visiting the beach is a must-do.

Jacobs Ladder beach and steps in Sidmouth

14. Catching a Movie

Catch a new cinematic release at the Radway Cinema located right in town, with snacks available too.

15. Having Afternoon Tea

Indulge in a traditional afternoon tea complete with finger sandwiches, scones, desserts and, of course, tea. A quintessentially British experience.

Planning Your Sidmouth Itinerary

To make the most of your visit to Sidmouth, plan your itinerary. Whether you have one, two, or three days, or even a whole week, there are plenty of things to see and do in and around Sidmouth.

One to Three-Day Sidmouth Itineraries

If you have one day in Sidmouth, spend your time exploring the beautiful beaches, gardens, and the town centre of Sidmouth. Enjoy a leisurely day of beachcombing, beachside picnics, and beach sports, take a stroll through the beautiful gardens of Connaught Gardens, and explore the atmospheric house gardens of the nearby Manor Pavilion.

If you have two days, extend your trip to include a visit to nearby attractions, such as the Sidmouth Donkey Sanctuary, where you can meet the donkeys, learn about their care, and even adopt one of them. Take a trip to the nearby town of Beer, a beautiful coastal village known for its pebble beach, beer stone, charming pubs, and the South West Coast Path walk to Seaton (which goes via Branscombe and Beer if you fancy a shorter trek). Spend a day exploring the town, savouring the local cuisine, and enjoying the beautiful scenery in South West England.

If you have three days, you can fully immerse yourself in the attractions, history, and natural beauty of Sidmouth. Spend a day exploring the town, a day at the nearby places, and a day enjoying the surrounding countryside, such as a trip to the nearby town of Branscombe, a picturesque village with a long pebble beach, a 12th-century church, and a popular beachside café. You can also take a leisurely stroll up the River Otter from Budleigh Salterton to Otterton, experiencing the tranquil beauty of the river and its surroundings.

A Week in Sidmouth Itinerary

For a week-long trip to Sidmouth and the surrounding Sid Valley, you can truly experience the town’s charm, attractions, and surrounding area. Explore the beautiful beaches, gardens, and town centre of Sidmouth, taking your time to soak up the atmosphere and discover the town’s history.

Visit the nearby town of Exeter, a short drive from Sidmouth, where you can explore the town’s history, attractions, and vibrant town centre. Take a trip to the stunning fishing town of Brixham in Torbay for a great day out to explore the harbour, shops, local cafes, and fun attractions.

Additionally, you can also enjoy the scenic East Devon Way, a popular walking trail that offers breathtaking views of the countryside and allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of East Devon.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sidmouth

Is Sidmouth worth visiting?

Sidmouth is definitely worth visiting. With its stunning sea views and picturesque streets, this beautiful coastal town offers a range of interesting attractions like the Sidmouth Museum and Jacob’s Ladder Beach. Additionally, there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore.

Are there many shops in Sidmouth?

Sidmouth offers a wide range of shopping options for visitors. Whether you’re looking for clothing boutiques, gift shops, food markets, antique stores, or bookshops, you’ll find them all in this charming town. Sidmouth is the perfect place to find unique souvenirs and items to remember your trip.

What is Sidmouth known for?

Sidmouth is known for its stunning coastal scenery and charming Victorian architecture. The town is famous for its annual Folk Week festival, attracting thousands of visitors. It also boasts a rich history, with landmarks like St. Giles Church and Sidmouth Castle. Additionally, Sidmouth is renowned for its award-winning gardens and parks such as Connaught Gardens and The Byes. Queen Victoria, the famous British monarch, even stayed in Sidmouth as a baby, adding to the town’s historical significance. One of the ways for visitors to discover the region’s history is through the town’s Blue Plaques, which highlight important historical sites and figures.

What to do near Sidmouth in the rain?

Explore the town’s history at the Sidmouth Museum or visit the Donkey Sanctuary for interactive exhibits. Take a trip to nearby Exeter for attractions like the Royal Albert Memorial Museum or indulge in a spa day at one of the luxury hotels in the area.

Summary

We hope you found this travel guide about the best things to do in Sidmouth useful. With a plethora of things to do in Sidmouth, you’ll never run out of activities to enjoy during your visit.

From exploring the beautiful seafront, and eating fish and chips, to discovering historical landmarks, there is something for everyone in Sidmouth.

If you’re looking for accommodation close to Sidmouth, take a look at the Quayside Hotel in Brixham. Brixham is just over one hour from Sidmouth, located within the infamous and popular Torbay.

15 Best Things to Do in Sidmouth