East Devon Coast, East Devon
The East Devon Coast stretches from the Dorset border at Lyme Regis to Exmouth, taking in some spectacular scenery and fantastic beaches along the way, and forming part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage site. It's a lovely part of the world because everywhere you go there's that wonderful mix of coast and country - mostly smaller beaches, some backed with dramatic red sandstone cliffs, others with towering chalk, but always those lush rolling hills as a backdrop.
Where to visit? Well, the elegant Regency town of Sidmouth is nice and the beach is plenty big enough for a family day spent playing by the sea, or in a similar vein there are the sandy beaches at Exmouth. At Seaton you can have a ride on the tram, and walk over the cliffs on the South West Coast Path to Beer. Beer's good too; there's a lovely cafe right on the beach, and up on the hill are Pecorama for the train enthusiasts and Beer Quarry Caves, fascinating for anyone who appreciates history. You can also walk from Beer to Branscombe, a picturesque village where the main street rolls gently down to the sea, passing flower hung cottages, an old working forge and an old bakery.
Go to Budleigh Salterton and you'll find a notably peaceful air and a long stretch of pebbly beach; watch the world go by on the quayside at Topsham or spend a couple of hours on a boat trip along the calm waters of the Exe estuary. On and on, much to do, much to see - and you'll be pleased to hear no shortage of pubs, tea shops and beach cafes along the way. Happy days.
All information correct at the time of writing