Sidmouth & South Devon

Day 1

Depart the local area with a lunch stop on route, arriving at our hotel in Sidmouth late afternoon. This glorious regency seaside town is nestled into the Jurassic Coast and yet enjoys a largely flat town centre. The highly regarded Royal York & Faulkner Hotel is positioned in the centre of the elegant Esplanade.

Day 2

This morning we visit Bicton Park Botanical Gardens. Spanning nearly 300 years of horticultural history, this magnificent grade I listed garden is set in the picturesque Otter Valley. The superbly landscaped park combines 18th century tranquillity with modern amenities to provide all year-round enjoyment including historic glasshouses, a countryside museum and the Bicton Woodland Railway train ride. This afternoon we visit the Cathedral city of Exeter.

Day 3

This morning, we make our way to Bridport, a lively and vibrant market town with a rich, rope-making heritage. We hop back on the coach and travel the short journey to the dramatic cliffs of the Jurassic Coast at the village of West Bay. West Bay has enjoyed a surge in popularity in recent years thanks to ITV's smash hit Drama Broadchurch starring David Tennant and Olivia Colman being filmed here.

Day 4

Enjoy the morning at leisure in Sidmouth. This afternoon we travel to the local town of Exmouth and board a boat for a 2.5hr cruise along the fascinating Jurassic Coast. Enjoy a cream tea as your Skipper gives you a live commentary on the history of the area, the beautiful sights and the resident and visiting wildlife.

Day 5

A day at leisure in Sidmouth. Visit the magnificent Connaught Gardens for a relaxing sit amongst the many "rooms" of colourful planting, enjoy the compact town centre, or while away some time on the promenade or beach. An optional visit to The Donkey Sanctuary this afternoon.

Day 6

Departing after breakfast we travel home with a lunch stop on route, arriving back early evening.

D=Dinner, B=Breakfast