Sidmouth Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Sidmouth Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Sidmouth packs a lot into a small area. The Esplanade offers a classic seaside promenade with Regency architecture on one side and the sea on the other. I recommend walking up to Connaught Gardens (EX10 8RZ, open daily 8am-sunset) for spectacular views across the bay.

The Donkey Sanctuary (EX10 0NU) is free to enter and houses over 500 rescued donkeys. It's open 9am-4pm daily and scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. Kids love meeting the donkeys while adults appreciate the walking trails and excellent café.

Norman Lockyer Observatory (EX10 0NY) offers a fascinating look at the stars. Open Saturday evenings for public viewings, it's worth booking ahead. The observatory sits on a hill with panoramic views - perfect for daytime visits too.

Sidmouth Museum (EX10 8EP) tells the town's story through fascinating exhibits. Open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-4pm between April and October, it's run by enthusiastic volunteers who bring local history to life.

Pet Friendly

Dogs love Sidmouth almost as much as their owners do! Jacob's Ladder Beach allows dogs year-round on the western section, while the main beach has seasonal restrictions (May-September).

The 7-mile Sidmouth to Beer coastal path offers spectacular walking with your dog. We recommend starting early as parts can get busy. The path includes some steep sections but rewards you with breathtaking views.

Many local pubs welcome dogs. The Swan Inn (EX10 8LP) not only allows dogs inside but offers water bowls and treats. The Anchor Inn (EX10 0QN) in nearby Beer has a dog-friendly garden with sea views.

Practical tip: Sidmouth Pet Shop (EX10 8AB) stocks emergency supplies if you forget anything. Most cottages with hot tubs have enclosed gardens, but always check fence heights if your dog's a jumper!

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Sidmouth

The Jurassic Coast stretches 95 miles from East Devon to Dorset. Sidmouth sits right in the middle, with its distinctive red cliffs dating back 240 million years. Take the South West Coast Path for the best views. I recommend the walk to Ladram Bay where you'll see the famous red sandstone sea stacks. One visitor wrote: "The contrast between the red cliffs and blue sea is stunning - bring a good camera!"

Peak Hill offers what many consider the best view in Devon. A moderate 30-minute climb rewards you with panoramic views across Lyme Bay. On clear days, you can see all the way to Portland Bill in Dorset. The benches at the top make perfect picnic spots. A recent visitor commented: "Worth every step of the climb. We could see our cottage with its hot tub from the top!"

Sidmouth Folk Festival transforms the town each August. Dating back to 1955, it brings world-class musicians, dancers and artists for a week-long celebration. Even if you're not a folk music fan, the atmosphere is infectious with street performers and craft markets. Book your hot tub cottage well in advance if visiting during festival week!

Is Sidmouth good for swimming?

Yes! Sidmouth's main beach has excellent water quality (rated 'Good' by the Environment Agency) and is lifeguard patrolled in summer. The water can be chilly though - that hot tub will feel amazing afterwards!

Where can I park in Sidmouth?

The Manor Road car park (EX10 8RU) offers all-day parking for £8. For shorter visits, Ham Lane car park is closer to town. Most cottages provide parking, but always check as Sidmouth's narrow streets make on-road parking tricky.

What's the best time to visit Sidmouth?

May and September offer warm weather without the crowds. August brings the Folk Festival which is brilliant but busy. Winter visits mean empty beaches and dramatic storms - plus those cottages with hot tubs come into their own!

Are there good restaurants in Sidmouth?

Absolutely! The Pea Green Boat (EX10 8LS) serves fantastic seafood right on the seafront. Neil's Restaurant (EX10 8EW) offers fine dining with local ingredients, while The Clocktower (EX10 8LD) does brilliant breakfasts.

Can I get to Sidmouth without a car?

Yes, but it's not straightforward. The nearest train station is Honiton (10 miles away) with buses running to Sidmouth. Once in town, local buses connect to nearby villages. Having a car makes exploring much easier.

What should I pack for a Sidmouth holiday?

Walking shoes are essential for coastal paths. Binoculars help spot seabirds and dolphins. Swimming gear for both sea and hot tub! And a raincoat - this is still England after all.

Some helpful links:

1. Visit Sidmouth Official Tourism Site
2. South West Coast Path Information
3. Sidmouth Folk Festival