Things to do in Devon
Planning a trip to Littlecourt Cottages or simply want to know what's on in Devon? We've got a great list of must-visit beaches, attractions and walks to get you started.
Devon is a county of breathtaking landscapes, charming coastal towns, and endless opportunities for adventure, and nowhere offers the best of it all than the historic town of Sidmouth.
Enjoy a leisurely morning stroll around the town’s independent shops, stopping for a coffee and a pastry, before lacing up your hiking boots for an afternoon hike along the coast path, taking in the breathtaking views and wildlife. When staying at Littlecourt Cottages, no two days have to be the same.
So whether you’re a couple looking for a weekend escape with plenty of romantic moments or a family ready for a fun-filled half term adventure, there are so many things to do in Devon to keep everyone entertained.
Beaches
Walk to Sidmouth Beach
When staying at Littlecourt Cottages you don't have to travel far to the beach, in fact, the nearest beach is within walking distance and, although we may be biased, we think it's one of the best beaches in Devon.
Sidmouth Beach is a charming pebble beach located at the heart of Sidmouth, offering stunning views of the Jurassic Coast. The beach is framed by the town’s iconic red cliffs, creating a picturesque setting for a day by the sea.
For a fun, free activity, kids will love exploring the rock pools at low tide and, if you're feeling brave, the whole family can take a dip in the sea for an invigorating swim.
Nothing soothes the soul quite like a day on the beach, so what are you waiting for, grab your flip flops and head for the shore.
Picnic at Branscombe
Pack up a picnic and take the short journey to the secluded beach at Branscombe for a family day out or a romantic lunch with a loved one.
In the Summer, bask in the sun, take a dip in the sea then head to the cafe for an ice cream. On cooler days, take the popular hike from Branscombe to Beer along the coast path and soak in the dramatic scenic views. No matter the time of year, Branscombe Beach is a great day out for relaxing or walking.
Why not make a day of it and include a stop at The Donkey Sanctuary on you way?
Rock pooling at Jacob’s Ladder
Jacob’s Ladder Beach is one of Sidmouth’s most picturesque spots, offering a mix of soft sand and shingles, backed by striking red cliffs that shelter beach-goers from the wind. It's a beautifully secluded spot to soak in your surroundings.
Named after the wooden staircase that leads down from Connaught Gardens, when looking for things to do in Devon, this relaxing spot by the sea should be high on your list. At low tide, families can enjoy rock pooling, discovering crabs, fish, and other marine life hidden among the rocks.
It is accessible by foot from the town however there is also a large car park nearby if you don’t fancy carrying your buckets and spades too far.
Attractions
Visit The Donkey Sanctuary
The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth is a free to visit, award-winning attraction that’s been winning the hearts of locals and visitors since 1969. The sanctuary provides lifelong care for donkeys and mules from around the world and allows visitors to meet plenty of donkeys during their visit, including the much-loved miniature donkeys.
As well as meeting the donkeys, guests of all ages can enjoy the surrounding countryside walks, engaging exhibits and seasonal trails. The Kitchen is a great pitstop for delicious, locally-scoured food, available to eat in or takeaway.
The Donkey Sanctuary is open every day from 9am – 5pm with no bookings required. Can’t wait for your trip? See what's on at Devon's best-loved attraction with the live donkey webcams!
Discover a hidden gem with Beer Quarry Caves
Looking for a Devon attraction that's a little more underground? You can't get better than Beer Quarry Caves, a 15 minute drive from Sidmouth and a great day out for adults and kids.
Beer Quarry Caves is a fascinating historic site with over 2,000 years of history spanning across Devon. The man-made caves were carved into the soft limestone to extract the famous Beer Stone, used in the construction of notable buildings like Exeter Cathedral.
Book a guided tour through the caves, exploring intricate stone formations and carvings. It’s one of the most exciting things to do in East Devon for history enthusiasts, geology lovers, and anyone wanting to explore one of Devon’s hidden gems.
To avoid disappointment, pre-booking is advised.
Bicton Park Botanical Gardens
Bicton Park Botanical Gardens, located in East Devon, is a beautiful 300-year-old garden spanning over 64 acres offering visitors of all ages a peaceful and picturesque escape.
The park features a variety of themed gardens, including formal flowerbeds, serene woodlands, and the stunning Palm House, which houses exotic plants from around the world.
With its expansive lawns, tranquil lakes, and ancient trees, Bicton Park is perfect for couples seeking a romantic stroll and families looking for a fun-filled day out, kids will love the woodland railway and play areas.
If you're wondering what's on in Devon during your stay Bicton Park holds events throughout the year including trails for kids, vintage weekends, and live music.
Walks
Explore the Jurassic Coast
A must-do for anyone visiting Sidmouth, the world-famous Jurassic Coast spans 95 miles from Orcombe Point near Exmouth in East Devon to Old Harry Rocks in Dorset and offers scenic walks with plenty of breathtaking views.
As England's only natural World Heritage Site, add it to the top of your itinerary for things to do in Devon.
Walks along the coast path are perfect for any age, whether you’re accompanied by little legs who can only tackle a mile or two, to avid hikers where the horizon’s the limit, everyone can enjoy the scenic delights of the Jurassic Coast. And it’s not all walks and hikes, the Jurassic Coast offers beautiful beaches for building sandcastles, skimming peddles and braving a sea swim.
Connaught Gardens
Not all walks have to involve hiking boots, maps and miles underfoot. In fact, Sidmouth boasts plenty of leisurely walks that offer views just as scenic as those along the coast path.
For all the beauty without the trekking, why not explore the charming Connaught Gardens? Connaught Gardens are beautifully maintained clifftop gardens in Sidmouth, offering stunning sea views, vibrant floral displays, and a peaceful escape from the bustling town. Named after the Duke of Connaught, these historic gardens are a popular spot for people of all ages looking for things to do in Devon, including leisurely walks, picnics, and photography.
Bring your own flask of tea from your cottage or stop at the cafe for light refreshments, these gardens are a delight all year round and the perfect way to spend a pleasant few hours.
The Salcombe Hill Circular Walk
The Salcombe Hill Circular Walk is a 2.5 mile moderate route offering stunning views of Sidmouth and the Jurassic Coast, with a 1 mile loop option for a shorter stroll.
Starting from the Salcombe Hill car park, a short 5 minute drive from Littlecourt Cottages, the walk takes you through a variety of landscapes, including woodlands, heathland, and clifftop paths, showcasing the best of Devon's natural beauty.
Along the way, you'll be treated to panoramic views of Sidmouth’s seafront, the dramatic red cliffs, and the vast coastal horizon. Ideal for nature lovers and photographers, this scenic route offers a chance to enjoy Devon’s diverse beauty.