Despite it being a popular tourist destination there is a true sense of community. [Zhara Simpson, Devon Live]
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On the Visit Sidmouth website, we are told that it is “a place that is easy to find and hard to leave:” Visit Sidmouth
In today’s Sunday Express, they are saying pretty much the same:
The UK coastline is peppered with charming seaside destinations – some in the national spotlight, while others remain more peaceful hidden gems. Sidmouth in East Devon is a prime example of the latter. Revered by locals and visitors alike, the coastal haven offers a picturesque waterfront as well as a tangle of quaint shops, cafes, pubs and hotels, all nestled between the dramatic cliffs of the Jurassic Coast. UK seaside town so beautiful and friendly nobody ever leaves | UK | News | Express.co.uk
The piece has some great interviews with both locals and visitors, as well as a look at the character of the place.
Much is in fact taken from an extensive piece on its online sister newspaper Devon Live. Take a look:
Sidmouth is revered by locals and visitors alike who never seemingly want to leave the place because it ticks all the right boxes and offers a slower, calmer, peaceful way of existing – away from the chaos of everyday life. That demand for Sidmouth of course comes with its own challenges – with people fearing locals can’t afford to stay and compete with the money second home owners bring.
It has a homely feel and everyone seems to know one another, which emphasises its special and unique atmosphere… And despite it being a popular tourist destination, with its many holiday homes and hotels, there is a true sense of community.
The town centre is made up of locally-run businesses, with a handful of chains, which makes it stand out from other Devon seaside towns. Although people may see Sidmouth as a retirement town, it is much more than that as there is lots going on. For example, every year they have its Folk Festival and Jazz Festival which attracts lots of tourists. while also having smaller community focused events which keeps everyone busy, no matter your age.
It may be a small place – but there’s so much to explore. We met the owner of a barber shop, a retail assistant at an old-fashioned sweet shop and visitors from Honiton who were having a morning dip in the sea...
Devon seaside paradise that people escape to and never want to leave – Devon Live