Stroll beaches along the English Channel and sleep in starlit meadows while camping near Sidmouth.
On the shores of the English Channel, Sidmouth is a South West England seaside escape beloved for its warm summer weather. Relax on beaches in town, then explore East Devon Way for a historic walking tour of Devon’s coastline and pitch a tent in the meadow at East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Dartmoor National Park also offers a wealth of walking paths, ranging from accessible to rugged, as well as sections of the park for wild camping under the stars. Or sleep in style in glamping tents in Blackdown Hills AONB after a day wandering the marsh ecosystems.
Travel 64 kilometres of historic trails through the heart of this AONB on a ramble along East Devon Way. This popular path takes hikers from Exmouth to Lyme Regis, past rolling meadows and historic villages that make up the AONB. Stock up on local produce, have a pint at a pub, and stay overnight in tent pitches next to streams and creeks to enjoy the green wilderness of East Devon.
Less than an hour drive from Sidmouth, Dartmoor National Park offers an expanse of hiking trails over granite hillsides and grassy moors. Try Miles Without Stiles accessible walking paths, and look for river otters that call this landscape home. Dartmoor National Park offers both designated camping pitches as well as land approved for wild camping inside the park.
A winding array of multi-use bridle paths make Blackdown Hills a popular spot for hiking, biking, and horseback riding adventures. Visit historic sites like Upottery Airfield Heritage Centre to learn about D-Day operations, or take a peaceful stroll through wildlife areas like Hense Moor for a glimpse into the local marsh ecosystems. Private camping parks with tent pitches, glamping sites, and caravan camping make it easy to stay close to the excitement in Blackdown Hills AONB.
Pleasantly sunny weather with temperatures around 21°C makes Sidmouth a popular summer destination for sea bathers who flock to the beaches. The town’s reputation as a tourist spot makes for camping competition from June to August, when holiday parks can become quite crowded. Spring and fall are often quieter and slightly cooler, so it’s best to pack a few layers for wind and precipitation. Many AONBs and campsites are open year-round, so those seeking fewer crowds can find beautiful spots to camp in the off-season.