Sidmouth Vacation Rentals
Tips on renting in Sidmouth
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Sidmouth, nestled along the Jurassic Coast in Devon, offers a charming seaside escape ideal for families. Start your journey with a stroll along the Esplanade to enjoy panoramic views of the red cliffs and pebble beaches. Families can explore Connaught Gardens, a beautifully maintained space perfect for picnics, or wander through the Sidmouth Museum, where interactive exhibits bring the town’s rich history to life. Don’t miss a visit to The Donkey Sanctuary, a favorite for children, where you can meet friendly donkeys and enjoy scenic walking trails.
For a deeper adventure, book a guided fossil hunting tour with Jurassic Coast Guides and search for ancient treasures along the shoreline. Kayaking and paddleboarding are available at Sidmouth Beach for active families, while Sidmouth Toy and Model Museum offers a nostalgic trip for all ages with its quirky collection of toys and model trains. Enjoy a traditional Devon cream tea at Clock Tower Café, perched above Jacob’s Ladder, with stunning sea views.
Discover a local secret at the Byes Riverside Park, a tranquil green corridor that winds from the town center to the countryside, perfect for cycling or a leisurely family walk. For a unique treat, visit Fields of Sidmouth, a family-run department store where locals shop for everything from seaside essentials to artisan gifts. Sidmouth’s welcoming vibe, array of attractions, and hidden gems ensure an unforgettable family getaway.
Nearby cities
Exeter
Bring your family to Exeter in South-West UK for riverside picnics, lush parks, playful trails, and vibrant markets—discover fun and adventure for all ages.
Teignmouth
Discover Teignmouth in South-West UK—build sandcastles, stroll the pier, savor seaside picnics, and watch your kids splash in safe, sparkling shallows.
Chudleigh
Discover Chudleigh in South-West UK—picnic by tranquil rivers, explore woodland trails, and let your kids play under wide, sunny skies. Family fun awaits!
Devon Coast
Discover Devon Coast in South-West UK—where your family can picnic on sandy shores, explore scenic trails, and enjoy fresh sea air and playful beach days together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Sidmouth has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The best time to visit Sidmouth, United Kingdom for outdoor fun is late spring through early autumn, particularly from May to September, when the weather is pleasantly warm and the iconic Jurassic Coast is at its most inviting. Enjoy scenic walks along the South West Coast Path, vibrant floral displays at Connaught Gardens, and lively events like the Sidmouth Folk Festival. The sunny days and gentle sea breezes create perfect conditions for exploring the town’s Regency architecture and relaxing on its pebble beach.
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For a memorable family stay in Sidmouth, consider booking accommodation near the Esplanade, where you’ll be close to the beautiful sandy beach and the iconic Jacob’s Ladder. The town center is also ideal, offering easy access to Connaught Gardens and the Sidmouth Toy and Model Museum, which delights children and adults alike. Staying near The Byes riverside park gives families a tranquil spot for picnics and leisurely walks, all within reach of Sidmouth’s charming cafes and shops.
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For families seeking comfort and convenience in Sidmouth, the area around the Esplanade and Connaught Gardens offers an ideal setting. Here, you’ll find family-friendly hotels and guesthouses with easy access to the sandy beach, the scenic South West Coast Path, and the delightful Sidmouth Donkey Sanctuary nearby. The town centre is just a short stroll away, providing a range of shops, cafés, and the charming Byes Riverside Park for relaxed afternoons.
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For a perfect summer family itinerary in Sidmouth, start your day with a stroll along the picturesque Sidmouth Beach, where kids can hunt for fossils along the Jurassic Coast. Explore the lush Connaught Gardens, offering panoramic views and vibrant flowerbeds. Visit the Sidmouth Museum for a fascinating glimpse into local history, then enjoy a traditional cream tea at one of the town’s charming tearooms. Don’t miss a walk through The Byes riverside park for a peaceful afternoon surrounded by nature.
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For families visiting Sidmouth, Jacob’s Ladder Beach is an excellent choice for young children to swim safely. This beach, located west of the Esplanade and beneath the iconic white steps, offers calm, shallow waters protected by gentle rock groynes, making it ideal for paddling and building sandcastles. During low tide, expansive stretches of sand and rock pools appear, providing a safe and engaging environment for little ones to splash and explore while parents relax nearby.
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Sidmouth, located on the stunning Jurassic Coast in Devon, is known for its beautiful beaches and charming Regency architecture rather than skiing. You won’t find ski schools or rental shops in Sidmouth itself, as the climate and geography are not suited for winter sports. If you’re looking for ski facilities, your best bet is to head to indoor ski centers in larger cities like Exeter or further afield, where artificial slopes and ski instruction are available year-round.
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In Sidmouth, you can expect to pay around £10 to £15 for entry to popular attractions like the Sidmouth Museum, while guided walks along the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, often cost about £8 to £12 per person. Boat tours departing from Sidmouth Harbour to explore the dramatic red cliffs and local wildlife generally range from £15 to £25. Enjoying the Connaught Gardens or strolling along the Esplanade remains free, adding to the town’s accessible charm.
