Seven Charming Day Trips Full of History, Character and Devon Charm

One of the best things about staying in Sidmouth is its location. While the town itself offers beautiful beaches, Regency architecture and stunning coastal walks, it’s also perfectly placed for exploring some of Devon and Dorset’s most historic towns and villages.

From bustling market towns and picturesque fishing villages to cathedral cities steeped in centuries of history, each destination offers something different – and all are within an hour’s drive of the Bedford Hotel.

Whether you’re planning a leisurely afternoon exploring independent shops or a full day discovering castles, cathedrals and coastal heritage, here are seven places well worth adding to your itinerary.

1. Beer

Approx. 15 minutes from the Bedford Hotel

Don’t let the name fool you – Beer is one of the prettiest fishing villages on the Jurassic Coast.

Nestled between towering white limestone cliffs, the village has been shaped by the sea for centuries. Colourful fishing boats are still hauled up onto the pebble beach each day, continuing traditions that have existed here for generations.

Spend time wandering the narrow streets lined with galleries, independent shops and cafés before enjoying fresh seafood overlooking the beach. If you’re interested in local history, the nearby Beer Quarry Caves reveal where the famous Beer Stone was quarried to build landmarks including Exeter Cathedral and Westminster Abbey.

Don’t miss:

• Watching the fishing boats return with their catch.
• Beer Quarry Caves.
• Fresh seafood overlooking the beach.

2. Lyme Regis

Approx. 30 minutes from the Bedford Hotel

Few seaside towns are as rich in history – or as instantly recognisable – as Lyme Regis.

Known as the ‘Pearl of Dorset’, Lyme Regis has welcomed visitors for centuries. The famous Cobb Harbour has appeared in novels and films, while the surrounding cliffs have made the town one of the world’s most important fossil hunting destinations.

Stroll along the harbour, browse the independent shops and galleries, or visit one of the museums celebrating the area’s remarkable geological history. If you’re lucky, you might even discover your own fossil along the beach.

Don’t miss:

• The Cobb Harbour.
• Fossil hunting on Monmouth Beach.
• Lyme Regis Museum.

3. Ottery St Mary

Approx. 20 minutes from the Bedford Hotel

Often overlooked by visitors, Ottery St Mary is one of East Devon’s most charming historic market towns.

Its magnificent parish church, inspired by Exeter Cathedral, dominates the town centre and reflects the town’s rich medieval heritage. Wander along the River Otter, browse independent shops and cafés, or simply enjoy the relaxed pace of life.

If you’re visiting in November, you may even experience the extraordinary Tar Barrels tradition – one of Devon’s most famous annual events.

Don’t miss:

• St Mary’s Church.
• The River Otter walk.
• Independent cafés and local shops.

4. Honiton

Approx. 25 minutes from the Bedford Hotel

Historic, welcoming and full of character, Honiton has been an important market town for centuries.

It’s best known for two things: antiques and lace. Today, its attractive High Street is lined with antique shops, independent retailers, cafés and traditional pubs, making it an enjoyable place to spend a few hours browsing.

The town still hosts regular markets and remains a thriving centre for local businesses and artisans.

Don’t miss:

• Honiton’s antique shops.
• Honiton Lace heritage.
• Weekly market (check local dates).

5. Exeter

Approx. 35 minutes from the Bedford Hotel

Devon’s historic county city perfectly blends ancient history with modern culture.

The magnificent Exeter Cathedral has stood at the heart of the city for over 900 years, while Roman walls, medieval passages and Tudor buildings reveal stories from every chapter of its past.

Beyond the history, Exeter offers excellent shopping, independent restaurants, museums and the beautiful Quayside, where you can hire kayaks, enjoy riverside dining or simply watch the world go by.

It’s an easy day trip from Sidmouth and offers something whatever the weather.

Don’t miss:

• Exeter Cathedral.
• Underground Passages.
• The Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM).
• Exeter Quayside.

6. Colyton

Approx. 25 minutes from the Bedford Hotel

Known as ‘Devon’s Most Rebellious Town’, Colyton has a fascinating history dating back hundreds of years.

This attractive market town is packed with beautiful period buildings, independent shops and traditional tearooms. It’s also home to the eastern terminus of the Seaton Tramway, making it a popular stop before travelling through the Axe Valley to Seaton.

Its peaceful atmosphere makes it a wonderful alternative to some of the busier coastal destinations.

Don’t miss:

• Seaton Tramway.
• Historic Market Square.
• Local cafés and bakeries.

7. Topsham

Approx. 35 minutes from the Bedford Hotel

Sitting on the banks of the River Exe, Topsham has long been associated with shipbuilding and maritime trade.

Today it’s one of Devon’s most desirable small towns, known for its colourful houses, independent boutiques, excellent restaurants and waterside walks.

Browse antique shops, watch boats drift along the estuary or enjoy lunch overlooking the river before exploring the charming streets that have changed little over the centuries.

It’s an elegant place to spend a relaxed afternoon.

Don’t miss:

• The Strand.
• Antique and independent shops.
• Riverside restaurants and cafés

Planning Your Historic Devon Adventure

One of the joys of staying in Sidmouth is that every day can bring a completely different experience. You might spend one morning exploring a medieval market town, the afternoon wandering a picturesque fishing village and still be back in time for dinner overlooking the sea.

Many of these destinations combine beautifully too. Consider pairing Beer with Lyme Regis for a day exploring the Jurassic Coast, or combine Honiton and Ottery St Mary for a relaxed tour of East Devon’s historic market towns.

Wherever you choose to visit, you’ll discover that history here isn’t confined to museums – it’s woven into every street, harbour and historic building.

Stay at the Heart of East Devon

The Bedford Hotel is perfectly placed for exploring the very best of East Devon and beyond. Whether you’re discovering the fishing heritage of Beer, browsing antique shops in Honiton or standing beneath the magnificent vaulted ceiling of Exeter Cathedral, you’ll never be far from your comfortable base on Sidmouth’s beautiful seafront.

After a day of exploring, return to the Bedford Hotel for a delicious meal, a relaxing drink overlooking Lyme Bay and a well-earned night’s sleep before setting off on your next adventure.