Referred to in the Doomsday book as Sedemuda, Sidmouth in East Devon is an attractive seaside resort of quiet residential character, boasting many Regency and early Victorian buildings but also renowned for its gigantic red-sandstone cliffs. The River Sid enters Lyme Bay here.

History of Sidmouth, Devon

Prior to the 15th Century, a harbour existed in the mouth of the river, but since Elizabethan times a long ridge of shingle has blocked the entrance. An attempt was made in the early 19th Century to construct a railway line into Sidmouth to rebuild the harbour. This effort was eventually abandoned. Later however, a branch line of London & South Western Railways was built to bring in holidaymakers to Sidmouth from the main London to Exeter rail link. This line, like many others in the 1960's was scrapped during the British Rail cutbacks.

In 1819, the Duke and Duchess of Kent stayed at Sidmouth with their daughter at Woolbrook Cottage, now the Royal Glen Hotel. In 1837 their daughter was crowned Queen Victoria (1819-1901).

To the east of Sidmouth town, a climb to Salcombe Hill Cliff will reward you with fine views.

Sidmouth and Otterton were settings for 'Sleeping Murder', a BBC TV adaptation in 1986 (broadcast in 1987) of the Miss Marple series by Agatha Christie, starring Joan Hickson.

Salcombe Regis, Devon

Salcombe Regis is well known for its Donkey Sanctuary.

The South West Coast Path

The South West Coast Path descends steeply into Sidmouth, East Devon, from the east. To the west the path ascends 'Jacobs Ladder', then through some woods. The path then descends into Ladram Bay, famous for its stacks of red rock jutting out of the sea. Then on towards Budleigh Salterton.

Good Beach Guide

Sidmouth (Town / Jacobs Ladder), Devon...The sea water quality is rated as having passed the EC Mandatory Standard and receives a Recommendation (the highest award) from The Marine Conservation Society.