The east of Devon is a wonderful place hidden in plain sight. In the nicest way possible, many Devonians see it as old and boring; an opinion that just isn’t justified! Once you get exploring East Devon, you’ll soon fall in love with it and keep going back for more.
East Devon is created with a mix of different towns and villages. There are plenty of coastal areas such as Exmouth, Sidmouth, and Budleigh Salterton, as well as countryside spots such as Axminster, Honiton, and Broadhembury. You certainly won’t be short of rolling hills and beautiful coastlines!
Here are just a few reasons why East Devon is a great place to visit.
The Beaches
Yeah we all know that Devon has got loads of excellent beaches, but for many, Exmouth will always be a firm favourite. Not only is it the oldest seaside town in Devon, but it also has two miles of sandy beaches. Two miles! There are also sand dunes (great fun for running down), volley ball pitches, and amusements.
Slightly further along the coast you will go from sand to pebbles at Budleigh Salterton. The quaint town has a real ‘English seaside’ atmosphere, and the beach is filled with beautiful and unique pebbles.
The Walks
There are 15 walks listed on the East Devon District Council website, so you definitely won’t be short of places to take your walking boots!
If you prefer a shorter and leisurely walk, then we recommend the Church Green and Farway Circular walk. This three mile walk takes just under two hours to complete and takes you through beautiful Devon farmland and the picturesque village of Farway.
For more experienced walkers, we challenge you to the Colyton, Shute Hill and Axe Valley Circular. At 8.1 miles long, it will take you around 4 hours and 15 minutes to finish (add on a bit of time if you stop in a pub!). This walk will provide you with amazing views of Musbury Castle Hill Fort and down the Axe Estuary.
The Heritage
East Devon is absolutely packed full of history, from caves to famous writers, there is a lot you didn’t know, and a lot you haven’t seen.
A La Ronde is an absolute must for fans of historic architecture, it is truly an amazing building. Beer Quarry Caves is a great place to take the kids, and it has various areas that will transport you through time, from the Saxon era right through to modern day.
Did you know that East Devon was quite popular with many great British writers? Samuel Taylor Coleridge was born in Ottery St Mary in 1772, whilst Jane Austen enjoyed holidays to Sidmouth. If it’s good enough for them…
The Pre-Historic Heritage
Before Jane Austen, East Devon had some other big guests. We’re talking dinosaurs. The Jurassic Coast has taught us so much about prehistoric life, and as you travel along you will see what changes occurred over 185 million years. Dinosaurs, forest, and giant marine reptiles once walked along these shores and a Jurrasic Coast tour is a great way to learn more. If you head to Charmouth, you could even find yourself a fossil!
