Easy Cultural Days Out from Sidmouth
East Devon offers a wonderful selection of small, engaging museums that are ideal for relaxed cultural outings. For guests staying at the Bedford Hotel in Sidmouth, many of these museums are within easy reach and make for enjoyable half-day trips, often combined with lunch, gentle walking or coastal views.
Whether you have a keen interest in local history, maritime heritage or natural landscapes, East Devon’s museums provide insight without being overwhelming — perfect for an unhurried holiday.
Located close to the town centre, Sidmouth Museum is an obvious first stop for visitors. The museum offers a well-presented introduction to Sidmouth’s social history, seaside traditions and connection to the surrounding Jurassic Coast.
Exhibits cover topics such as early tourism, local industries and notable residents, with plenty to interest visitors without requiring a long visit. Most guests find an hour or so is ideal, making it easy to combine with lunch in Sidmouth or a walk along the seafront.
Its central location means you can return to the comfort of the Bedford Hotel at any point, making it one of the most convenient cultural activities during your stay.
Approximately 20 minutes east of Sidmouth, the Fairlynch Museum in Budleigh Salterton is housed in a charming thatched cottage just a short walk from the seafront.
The museum focuses on local life in Budleigh Salterton and the surrounding Otter Valley, with displays covering farming, domestic life, fishing and seaside holidays through the centuries. Its modest size and friendly atmosphere make it ideal for visitors who enjoy browsing at a gentle pace.
Many guests combine a visit to Fairlynch Museum with a stroll along Budleigh’s pebble beach or lunch in one of the town’s cafés before returning to Sidmouth.
For a more substantial museum experience, Exeter’s Royal Albert Memorial Museum — often known as RAMM — is well worth the short drive of around 40 minutes from Sidmouth.
RAMM is a large, light-filled museum with collections ranging from natural history and archaeology to fine art and world cultures. Despite its size, it is thoughtfully laid out, allowing visitors to explore selected galleries without feeling rushed.
Accessible facilities, seating throughout and a pleasant café make RAMM a comfortable choice for a longer cultural outing. Many visitors choose to combine their visit with time in Exeter’s historic city centre.
Why Museums Make Ideal Holiday Outings
East Devon’s museums are generally small, welcoming and easy to explore at your own pace. They offer an excellent alternative on cooler or wetter days and provide meaningful insight into the area you’re visiting.
For guests staying at the Bedford Hotel, these museums are close enough to enjoy without committing to a full day away, leaving plenty of time to relax back in Sidmouth.
