Living in Sidmouth

Community life in Sidmouth is shaped by a friendly and inclusive spirit, with many residents taking part in local clubs, societies, and voluntary initiatives. The town hosts a busy calendar of events, including the Sidmouth Folk Festival, Sidmouth Science Festival, regular farmers’ markets, and floral shows in the riverside gardens.

Parks and green spaces like The Byes offer tranquil walking routes along the River Sid, while the seafront esplanade becomes a hub of activity in the summer. There are numerous societies for arts, gardening, croquet, theatre, and conservation, encouraging social interaction and enjoyment of shared pursuits. Overall, Sidmouth offers a vibrant social fabric and a wealth of opportunities for all age groups to get involved.

Sidmouth is widely regarded as a safe and welcoming town with low crime rates compared to many urban areas. Incidents of serious crime are infrequent, and the town benefits from an active community that keeps an eye out for one another. Property crime and anti-social behavior rates in Sidmouth are consistently below national averages.

The Sidmouth area is served by Devon and Cornwall Police, with visible local policing and regular community engagement events fostering a reassuring presence. Efforts such as Neighbourhood Watch schemes and local safety forums encourage residents to report concerns swiftly and work together to address issues. The town centre and seafront areas are generally considered safe, both during the day and in the evening, contributing to Sidmouth’s reputation as a secure place to live and visit.

Parking in Sidmouth can be competitive during peak tourist seasons, particularly in the town centre and along the seafront. There are several public car parks operated by East Devon District Council, including those at Manor Road, Ham East, and Mill Street, as well as limited on-street parking. Residents can apply for parking permits in designated areas, especially in streets near the promenade and shopping districts.

Access by car is via the A3052, which runs from Exeter to Lyme Regis and provides the main route into Sidmouth. Traffic congestion is generally low outside holiday periods, though summer weekends can see increased visitor numbers. The location is convenient for reaching key regional destinations:

• Exeter – approx. 16 miles, 30 minutes via A3052
• Honiton – approx. 10 miles, 20 minutes via A375 and A30
• Exmouth – approx. 16 miles, 35 minutes via A3052
• Taunton – approx. 36 miles, 50-60 minutes via A358/M5

Sidmouth has a thriving food and drink scene, with a good mix of traditional pubs, contemporary cafés, and independent restaurants. Popular choices include The Anchor Inn and The Swan Inn – both of which offer well-kept ales and hearty menus. Seafood features prominently at local eateries, with restaurants like The Pea Green Boat providing dishes made from fresh, locally caught produce.

For cafés, head to places like The Clock Tower Café in Connaught Gardens for afternoon tea with a sea view, or the award-winning Fields of Sidmouth for coffee and homemade cakes. A variety of takeaways, including Indian, pizza, and fish & chips, are available throughout the town. While Sidmouth’s nightlife is more relaxed than bustling, occasional live music events, atmospheric bars, and hotel lounges provide a sociable evening scene. Theatres and the cinema at the Manor Pavilion also offer entertainment beyond the typical pub atmosphere.

School quality: Families in Sidmouth benefit from good local primary and secondary schools, meaning parents have reliable options close to home. The supportive school communities also enhance the family-focused atmosphere in the area.

Parks and green space: The Byes and Connaught Gardens are popular for picnics, sporting activities, and outdoor exploration, offering clean and accessible green spaces. The beach itself also provides plenty of child-friendly recreation.

Childcare: There are several nurseries and preschools in and around Sidmouth, with local childminders and after-school clubs providing flexible options for working families.

Safety: The town’s low crime rates and welcoming community make Sidmouth a reassuring location for families. Well-maintained public spaces and regular policing contribute to the sense of security.

Family activities: Sidmouth boasts a range of family-friendly attractions, from mini-golf and children’s playgrounds to regular classes and workshops at local community centres. Days out include exploring the Jurassic Coast or attending family-focused festivals and events throughout the year.

Sidmouth is especially popular with pet owners due to its access to scenic walks and open countryside. The Byes offers dog-friendly paths along the river, while extensive sections of the South West Coast Path invite long walks with panoramic coastal views. Parts of Sidmouth's main beach are open to dogs year-round, with restrictions only at peak summer periods on central sections.

There are several veterinary practices and pet supply shops in town, and local cafés with outdoor seating often welcome dogs. Many rental and owned properties in Sidmouth accommodate well-behaved pets, and community attitudes to animals are friendly, making Sidmouth a comfortable location for pet-loving households.

Sidmouth’s transport and accessibility offer a balance between rural charm and connectivity. While there is no railway station directly in the town, regular bus services link Sidmouth to Exeter, Honiton, and Exmouth, making it feasible for residents without a car to reach wider Devon and beyond. The nearest railway stations are Honiton and Exeter St David’s, both easily accessible by bus.

Major road access is via the A3052, connecting Sidmouth with the M5 motorway just outside Exeter. Local buses run frequently, connecting the town to surrounding villages and market towns. The closest airport, Exeter International Airport, is approximately 30 minutes by car, offering domestic and some European flights. This means travel for business or leisure is fairly straightforward despite Sidmouth’s coastal location.

Commute times by public transport:

• Exeter: Approx. 45 minutes by bus (25 minutes by car)
• Honiton: Approx. 35–45 minutes by bus
• London: Around 3 hours by train from Honiton to London Waterloo
• Exeter Airport: Approx. 30 minutes by car/taxi

Families considering schools in Sidmouth will find a range of educational options to suit all ages. For primary education, Sidmouth Church of England (VA) Primary School is centrally located and known for its inclusive ethos and positive Ofsted feedback (Good, 2018). Another nearby option is Sidbury Church of England Primary School just outside the town, rated Good by Ofsted in 2022. These schools emphasize nurturing environments and strong community links.

At secondary level, Sidmouth College provides comprehensive education for 11-18-year-olds. This mixed academy has a Good Ofsted rating (2019) and offers an extensive curriculum, including a vibrant sixth form, making it a popular choice for Sidmouth residents and surrounding villages.

For post-16 education and vocational training, young people often travel to Exeter College – a highly regarded further education provider just 15 miles away. The college offers a wide variety of A-levels, apprenticeships, and professional courses. While Sidmouth itself doesn’t have a university campus, University of Exeter (about a 30-minute drive) is a leading Russell Group university and within commuting distance for local students.