Sand

The sand here is the whole point - and it's genuinely excellent. Red cliffs rise up behind a wide, firm beach near Sidmouth, and the sand itself has that distinctive rusty hue you get along this stretch of the Devon coast. It's the kind of beach that stays walkable for miles at low tide, which makes it proper good for families who want space to spread out without tripping over other people's windbreaks.

You'll see geologists pottering about taking photos of the cliff face - the geology is famously dramatic here, part of the Jurassic Coast story. But honestly, the appeal is straightforward: it's a working beach, not a theme park. Bring a bucket and spade, or a walking boot and a good stride. The rock pools reveal themselves at low tide if you know where to look.

There's no formal admission or operating hours - you just turn up. Sidmouth itself is a proper seaside town with cafes and chip shops, so you won't go hungry. Cuckoo Down Farm Glamping sits a few miles inland if you're staying over, and a beach day here slots easily into a wider coastal walk or park break.

Worth the trip if you're after uncomplicated seaside time. The red sand is a talking point, and the beach has real character rather than feeling manufactured. Go when the tide's out, and you'll understand why people make the effort to get here.