With staycations proving a popular choice for many people, an East Devon summer holiday gives you everything you need for the ultimate break – plenty of attractions, sights to see and delicious foods to sample.
We’ve compiled our 10 reasons why East Devon is one of the UK’s favourite holiday destinations. We hope it helps you when you’re planning your perfect stay this summer!
Sidmouth
1. The coast & beaches – East Devon is situated within easy reach of the breath-taking Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, which spans 185 million years of geological history. It includes such impressive sights as the Hooken Cliffs landslip near Branscombe and offers an array of beaches to choose from – perfect for buckets and spades and fantastic crabbing! The nearby beaches of Sidmouth and Exmouth, home to a two-mile sandy beach, are perfect for a day of family fun.
The Jurassic Coast – Hooken Cliffs near Branscombe
2. The dramatic landscapes – The region has two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty – East Devon and the Blackdown Hills. These picturesque landscapes encompass everything from river valleys to imposing cliffs, and offer a variety of walking opportunities, perfect for those with a four-legged friend. The Sandstone cliffs which flank the Georgian and Regency resort of Sidmouth soar to nearly 500ft with spectacular views over 40 miles to Portland and inland to Dartmoor; they are also peppered with caves once used by smugglers.
Branscombe village
3. The charm and relaxation – Discover the charm and character of East Devon that’s unlike any other destination. With its spattering of pretty, historical market towns and lush green surroundings, East Devon is a lovely and relaxing place to visit. High-hedged lanes weave across the green landscape linking sleepy hamlets and historic market towns.
Wherever you stay, make sure you visit the city of Exeter while you’re on your East Devon holiday. The city has a unique character and plenty of shops. Exeter Cathedral is open to visitors throughout the year, and the cobbled streets and low-beamed pubs make the perfect backdrop for a day exploring. Discover the historical market town of Axminster, famed for its textiles, the interesting shops at Sidmouth, and the historic port of Topsham.
Hire a bike or canoe from Exeter quay; image credit Saddles and Paddles
4. The walking & cycling – If you’re keen to seek out wildlife and enjoy some of the finest coastal walks in Britain, look no further than an East Devon holiday. Don your boots and binoculars and head off on the South West Coast Path, and expect amazing coastal scenery whichever way you trek. The 6-mile walk from Budleigh Salterton to Sidmouth may be just the section of the South West Coast Path for you.
The railway between Exmouth and Budleigh Salterton has been converted into a cycleway and forms part of National Cycle Network Route 2 along the south coast. Or cycle your way along the Exe estuary and you’ll pass chocolate box resort after chocolate box resort. Alternatively, explore the 3,500 acres of stunning Devonshire countryside at Haldon Forest Park – a popular place for a bike ride in a truly breathtaking location.
© Haldon Forest Park; image credit Simon Stuart-Miller
5. The outdoor adventure – An East Devon holiday is made for adventurers. You now know that East Devon offers wonderful walking & cycling. Add golf, canoeing, horse riding and rock climbing and you’re sure to find an activity for everyone! Devon benefits from a dual coastline and two beautiful moorlands, lending itself to a fantastic array of outdoor activities. And Go Ape at Haldon Forest is a great place for all ages to make like monkeys and get high up into the trees.
If it’s watersports that you fancy, how about jumping in a canoe or kayak and exploring the peaceful Exe Estuary? If you’re a bit of an adrenaline junkie, or fancy trying something new, then coasteering may be just for you; your children will love jumping into the sea and spotting wildlife.
6. The boat trips – Lots of East Devon harbours offer trips along the coast or up estuaries. From Easter to October, hop aboard one of the Stuart Line Cruises that take visitors along the Jurassic Coast and in search of the area’s wildlife.
© The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth
7. The family attractions – Sometimes it can be a struggle to keep the little ones occupied, but we are confident that an East Devon holiday won’t disappoint. Click here for an abundance of fun, exciting and very different days out for children and families. From farm and adventure parks to exciting historical attractions, houses and gardens, there’s plenty of choice. Some of our favourites include Crealy Great Adventure Park and The Donkey Sanctuary. Why not snake up the Axe River valley aboard the Seaton Tramway, explore the labyrinth of caves at Beer Quarry or discover Castle Drogo, the last castle ever to be built in England?
© River Exe Cafe, Exmouth
8. The beer and cheer – Wonderful pubs abound the area serving good food, wine, and a myriad of local ciders and beers – try our favourites including the Turf Inn, perfectly located for cyclists and walkers beside the Exeter Canal, the Jack in the Green in Rockbeare and the Masons Arms in Branscombe. East Devon is also renowned for its quality of food and there is plenty of local produce available in the cafés and restaurants. In Exmouth, The River Exe Cafe, Devon’s only floating gastro shed and Bumble and Bee’s tempting tea rooms come highly recommended. Of course, you can’t take an East Devon holiday without sampling some ice cream and a cream tea the Devon way – cream first!
© Sidmouth Folk Week
9. The events – Perhaps plan your East Devon holiday to coincide with one of its colourful festivals. Highlights include summertime regattas in Sidmouth and Beer, Sidmouth Folk Week and Seaton’s Carnival Week (both unique week-long fun celebrations with music, dance, song & more).
View towards Sidmouth on the East Devon coast
10. The climate – And last, but not least, this glorious area is blessed with one of the mildest climates in the UK – another great reason to choose an East Devon holiday!
Our East Devon Holiday Cottages
Burrows, Venn Ottery, near Sidmouth
For a truly memorable East Devon holiday, book a stay in one of our holiday cottages in the region. The beautiful surroundings can be explored safe in the knowledge you will be coming back to a wonderful home from home to truly relax and wind down in.
Published on Sunday 10th January 2021 by Linnie Clements
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