Beacon Breccias

The history behind the Beacon Breccias area of Exmouth is still indicated by its name. The walkways and gardens were built on the land known as Beacon Fields, once used to light fires on when there was danger in Exmouth.

In 1791 Beacon Terrace replaced it and became a popular spot for wealthy people to set up home due to its panoramic views. The nobility to reside in the Beacon Terrace area once included the wife of Lord Nelson, when she retreated to the area while he had a very public affair.

Budleigh Salterton

Just a few miles along the East Devon coast from Exmouth lies Budleigh Salterton. The town’s fascinating history is still hidden in its name..,as derived from the pans once used to collect local salt which was used for preserving.

Salt was collected by local monks, as it had a high value the further inland you were, and they used pands created in Otterton priory. Much of the priory’s income was made from the production of salt, and it was sent to the surrounding villages dotted along the River Otter using pack animals.

Budleigh Salterton Beach

Budleigh Salterton’s beach was also shaped by the history of East Devon. Visitors to this stretch of coast may notice that the smooth pebbles to be found along it are larger than many others in the area.

The Great Storn of 1824 is generally blamed for this, as it threw many pebbles onto the beach at Budleigh Salterton – many of which stayed where they fell to form the beach. Budleigh was a popular seaside resort in Victorian times!

Exeter's Underground Passages

Beneath the bustling city of Exeter a network of 14 century tunnels remain, a medieval leftover that can still be explored!

The tunnels originally housed the pipes which supplied Exeter with fresh water from the fields outside, and the tunnels were cleverly vaulted to avoid digging them out every time there was a leak.

For many years, the people of Exeter were baffled by the tunnels and created their own explanations for their purpose, and the many theories includes tales of sieges, wars and the plague! The tunnels are suitable for young and old, and are open for visitors all year round.

Sidmouth Harbour

Few visiting the pretty town of Sidmouth today realise that had things been different, they would have seen a harbour too. The spot where the River Sid now flows across Sidmouth’s Beach marks the original site of Sidmouth’s harbour. Sidmouth fell victim to a series of fierce storms during the 15 century, which created landslides along the faces of the cliffs – eventually blocking the harbour beyond saving.

Plans were made to rebuild the harbour during the 1810s, and a railroad was even built to transport the stone that was needed through the cliffs. However, the plan failed and was abandoned, but the remains of the railroad can still be seen!