You don’t need to travel all the way to Cornwall to find breathtaking beaches. Just three hours from Birmingham lies Sidmouth, a charming seaside town in Devon that showcases one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the UK.
Nestled along the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sidmouth is known for its dramatic red cliffs, sweeping ocean views, and a main beach that reveals golden sands at low tide—perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, and exploring rock pools. The beach’s clean, mild waters attract swimmers and has earned the prestigious Blue Flag award for its quality and safety.
The town promenade offers benches where you can relax and soak in the scenery, while nearby fudge shops, cream teas, and ice cream cafes add to the traditional seaside experience. Sidmouth’s timeless charm is reflected in its well-preserved Regency architecture and tranquil parks, a feature famously admired by poet John Betjeman. Accessibility is also a priority here, with beach wheelchairs available for hire.
READ MORE: High Failure Rates in Driving Theory Tests – Could You Pass These Questions?
READ MORE: Next’s £72 Cape Maxi Dress: Elegance in 10 Stunning Colours Perfect for Weddings
For a quieter spot, head to Jacob’s Ladder Beach at the western end of the promenade. This area boasts beautiful white sands at low tide and family-friendly swimming zones. Its name derives from the iconic white wooden staircase linking the beach to Connaught Gardens above, home to a cozy café.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to spot coastal birds such as grebes, divers, and guillemots along the dramatic Jurassic Coastwalk, which runs close by. Nearby Beer Beach, a quaint fishing village cove with another Blue Flag status, offers shingle shores and boat hire for a day on the water.
Why not extend your visit with an overnight stay? The Farmer’s Retreat, a short stroll from Sidmouth beach, features scenic walking routes right outside its door, a cozy wood burner, and a private garden perfect for alfresco dining. Alternatively, Budmouth in Upwey near Weymouth impresses with vaulted ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows framing views of the sloping garden and surrounding farmland.
Traveling to Sidmouth is easy. By car, it takes just over three hours from Birmingham via the M5, depending on traffic. For public transport, trains from Birmingham New Street to Exeter connect with buses to Sidmouth, making the journey approximately three hours and 40 minutes.