Discover the Best of Sidmouth During the Summer Months
Summer is when Sidmouth truly comes to life. Long coastal days, colourful gardens, warm evenings on the esplanade, and a packed calendar of events make it one of the most enjoyable times of year to visit the Jurassic Coast.
Unlike larger seaside resorts, Sidmouth retains a relaxed and elegant atmosphere, even during the height of summer. Visitors can spend the morning exploring coastal paths, the afternoon browsing independent shops or relaxing on the beach, and the evening enjoying dinner overlooking the sea.
Whether you are planning a short coastal break, a family holiday, or a relaxing escape to East Devon, here are some of the very best things to do in Sidmouth during the summer months.
1. Spend a Summer Day on Sidmouth Beach
Sidmouth Beach is at the heart of the town during summer. From early morning swimmers to families enjoying fish and chips on the promenade, the seafront becomes a lively but still wonderfully relaxed place to spend the day.
The beach itself is famous for its striking red cliffs and sweeping views across Lyme Bay. At low tide, rock pools begin to appear, making it a great spot for children to explore, while the level promenade is ideal for a leisurely stroll with an ice cream or coffee.
During warmer evenings, the seafront takes on a completely different atmosphere, with people gathering to watch the sunset, listen to live music nearby, or simply enjoy the sea air.
Top tip: Visit early in the morning or later in the evening for the most peaceful experience and beautiful coastal light.
2. Explore Connaught Gardens and Jacob’s Ladder
Perched above the western end of the beach, Connaught Gardens are one of Sidmouth’s most beautiful summer locations. The colourful flowerbeds are at their absolute peak during July and August, and the gardens offer some of the best sea views in town.
You can wander through the winding pathways, relax on the lawns, or stop at the café terrace overlooking the coast.
From the gardens, Jacob’s Ladder provides direct access down to the beach below. The famous white steps and cliffs have become one of Sidmouth’s most photographed landmarks and are especially impressive on bright summer days.
This area perfectly captures Sidmouth’s traditional seaside charm.
3. Discover Sidmouth’s Summer Events and Festivals
Summer is festival season in Sidmouth, and throughout the warmer months the town hosts a lively calendar of music, entertainment, and community events.
Two of the biggest highlights of the year are the internationally renowned Sidmouth Folk Festival and the Sidmouth International Jazz and Blues Festival. Both events bring an incredible atmosphere to the town, filling the seafront, gardens, venues, and streets with live performances and visitors from across the country.
The Folk Festival has long been one of Sidmouth’s most loved traditions, with music, dance, workshops, and performances taking place across the town (find out more here). Meanwhile, the Jazz and Blues Festival adds a stylish and lively feel to the summer calendar, featuring headline acts, outdoor music, and relaxed coastal entertainment (find out more here).
Alongside the larger festivals, visitors will also find seasonal markets, outdoor performances, and community events taking place throughout the summer. For a full event calendar take a look at our dedicated local events blog here.
4. Take a Boat Trip Along the Jurassic Coast
Seeing the coastline from the water gives a completely different perspective on East Devon’s famous cliffs.
Nearby operators such as Stuart Line Cruises run a variety of summer sailings, including scenic coastal trips, River Exe cruises, and wildlife-focused journeys.
These trips are particularly popular during the warmer months, when calmer seas and longer evenings make conditions ideal. Along the way, you may spot seabirds, hidden coves, dramatic red cliffs, and even seals.
For couples or groups looking for a slower-paced activity, it’s one of the most relaxing ways to experience the coastline.
5. Visit the Donkey Sanctuary
Located just outside Sidmouth, the Donkey Sanctuary remains one of the area’s most loved attractions-and summer is one of the best times to visit.
The fields are full of grazing donkeys, the walking trails are at their best, and the surrounding countryside looks beautiful in the sunshine.
Visitors can:
- Meet rescued donkeys
- Explore scenic walking routes
- Learn more about the sanctuary’s welfare work
- Enjoy lunch or coffee at The Kitchen restaurant
- Browse the gift shop
Because entry and parking are free, it’s also one of the easiest and most flexible days out in the area. Find out more here.
6. Try Fossil Hunting Along the Jurassic Coast
Sidmouth forms part of the UNESCO-listed Jurassic Coast, making it a fascinating destination for fossil hunting.
After summer tides, small fossils can sometimes be found among rocks and pebbles along the shoreline. Children especially love searching for prehistoric treasures while exploring the beach.
The dramatic red cliffs surrounding Sidmouth also make the coastline visually unique compared to many other seaside towns.
If you are new to fossil hunting, local museums and visitor information centres can provide guidance on where to explore safely.
Top tip: Always check tide times and avoid getting too close to cliff edges.
7. Enjoy a Traditional Devon Cream Tea
A summer visit to Sidmouth wouldn’t feel complete without stopping for a proper Devon cream tea.
Across the town, cafés and tearooms serve freshly baked scones with jam and thick Devon clotted cream-often alongside beautiful sea views.
One of the pleasures of summer in Sidmouth is slowing down and taking time to enjoy simple experiences like this. Whether you stop after a coastal walk or spend an afternoon watching the world go by from a café terrace, it’s all part of the town’s charm.
And yes-this is Devon, so the cream goes on top.
8. Browse Sidmouth’s Independent Shops and Markets
Sidmouth’s town centre is filled with independent businesses, giving it a much more personal feel than many larger resorts.
Summer is an excellent time to explore the boutiques, galleries, gift shops, and delicatessens that line the streets around the town centre and seafront.
Seasonal craft markets and local events also appear throughout the summer months, often featuring:
- Handmade crafts
- Local artwork
- Artisan food and drink
- Devon produce and gifts
It’s the perfect opportunity to pick up something unique while supporting local businesses.
9. Visit Bicton Park Botanical Gardens
Just a short journey from Sidmouth, Bicton Park Botanical Gardens make a wonderful summer day out.
The gardens are especially impressive at this time of year, with vibrant flowerbeds, tropical glasshouses, and expansive lawns looking their very best.
Highlights include:
- The historic Palm House
- Summer floral displays
- Woodland walks
- The Italian Garden
- Relaxed café and picnic areas
Because the grounds are so large, Bicton never feels overcrowded, even during the height of summer.
10. Relax, Dine, and Enjoy the Seafront
After a day exploring Sidmouth, there’s nothing better than settling in for a relaxed summer evening by the sea.
Located directly on the seafront, the Bedford Hotel provides the perfect base for enjoying the town during the warmer months. Guests can spend the day exploring before returning for:
- Drinks overlooking the sea
- Afternoon coffee and cake
- Seasonal dishes in the Pynes Bar and Restaurant
- Relaxed evenings by the coast
Just a short stroll along the promenade, visitors will also find The Pea Green Boat – the Bedford Hotel’s sister café and bar.
Situated right by the water, it has become a favourite summer spot for coffee, relaxed lunches, coastal views, and sunset drinks. During the warmer months, the outdoor seating area is particularly popular, offering one of the best places in town to sit back and watch the sea.
The Pea Green Boat also hosts regular supper clubs and seasonal dining events throughout the year, making it well worth checking what’s on during your stay.
Summer in Sidmouth is all about slowing down, enjoying the surroundings, and making the most of the long coastal days – and both the Bedford Hotel and The Pea Green Boat place you right at the centre of it all.
Plan Your Summer Escape to Sidmouth
From beach days and boat trips to festivals, gardens, and coastal adventures, Sidmouth offers one of the most enjoyable summer experiences in Devon.
What makes the town special is the balance it provides: lively enough to feel vibrant during the season, yet relaxed enough to remain peaceful and welcoming.
Whether you are visiting for a short break or a longer holiday, Sidmouth in summer offers the perfect combination of seaside charm, natural beauty, and memorable experiences.
We look forward to welcoming you this summer.
