The Donkey Sanctuary

The Donkey Sanctuary is one of the most inspiring family attractions in Sidmouth. This attraction is a charity, and home to hundreds of rescued donkeys who rely on support and visits from the public, so do go and say hello during your holiday.

The sanctuary avoids commercial attractions, with all the emphasis on a relaxing walk and the chance to greet the rescue donkeys as they enjoy their rolling green fields.

The sanctuary is open every day for visitors, and dogs are welcome too.

Sidmouth Museum

Sidmouth Museum remains one of the most important Sidmouth attractions. Housed in a Regency cottage in the town centre, the museum is the starting point for many guided walks and tours of the town and coast – and also houses some intriguing artefacts from the town’s past!

The Sidmouth Museum portrays the history of the town, with an emphasis on its place on the Jurassic Coast, so you can expect to see local fossils and rocks amongst the displays– some of which date all the way back to the Triassic period.

Connaught Gardens

Perhaps underrated as a Sidmouth family attraction, Connaught Gardens are the perfect spot to enjoy a summer’s day by the sea. As well as beautiful views out to sea and along the coast, there is always something going on at the gardens.

Barely a week passes during summer without a live band treating those in the gardens to a performance, so why not grab a deckchair and relax as you listen?! There are concerts every Sunday evening from the town band, and don’t forget to visit the spectacular botanical gardens too.

Stuart Line Cruises

Once you’ve seen all of the attractions in Sidmouth, there’s only one thing to do…see them from the sea! Sidmouth looks its best from out at sea, where you can admire the blazing cliffs of the Jurassic Coast with the pretty little town at their feet, and Stuart Line Cruises in Exmouth run a whole host of estuary cruises.

Choose from birdwatching, day trips to the English Riviera along the coast or a special Jurassic Coast trip, and make sure you don’t miss out on the best vantage point for holiday snaps!

Norman Lockyer Observatory

If you’re on the lookout for a unique attraction in Sidmouth, the Norman Lockyer Observatory is just the thing! Operated by Exeter University, this historic, working observatory was created by Norman Lockyer in 1912, after his observatory in London closed down.

Today, as well as continued use for scientific research and learning, the observatory is open to the public on specific dates and for special events, or you can book on a tour during your holiday. Touch The Stars events offer guests the chance to experience telescopic views with tactile toolse.