Tranquil corner of the UK that's the perfect place to escape to for the weekend

Daily Mirror

18-05-2025

East Devon has all the ingredients for a wonderful weekend away - yet it remains a hidden gem. Here's how you can spend 48 hours exploring the tranquil region
East Devon may not be the first name that springs to mind when considering a trip to the South West, but that's exactly why it deserves your consideration. Tucked between the Dorset border and the outskirts of Exeter, this slice of countryside and coastline offers something increasingly elusive: peace without boredom, charm without the crowds.
If you're seeking a short break that delivers beaches, culture, hearty cuisine and a sense of adventure, East Devon could be your best-kept secret - at least for now. Whether you're an inquisitive explorer, a history buff, or a relaxed food lover, the area's blend of historic towns, natural splendour, and leisurely delights has something to relish.
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This meticulously planned 48-hour itinerary will guide you through the highlights of East Devon in a weekend - and might leave you questioning why you didn't visit sooner, as reported by Devon Live.
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Day one in East Devon
Kick off your East Devon getaway on the fringes of Honiton at Heron Farm - a serene 17-acre sanctuary complete with an award-winning café, vineyard, and walled garden. It's the perfect backdrop to ease into the weekend
Post-breakfast, take the brief journey into Honiton itself, a market town that strikes the perfect balance between hustle and old-world allure.
Honiton takes great pride in its history, especially its lace-making heritage. This is carefully preserved in Allhallows Museum, a small yet richly detailed collection that traces the town's creative journey from the 16th century onwards.
It's a stop that subtly rewards the curious, blending tactile heritage with archaeological intrigue. From Honiton, travel east to Axminster. This town beautifully embraces its rural surroundings, and just beyond its centre lies River Cottage, the culinary haven established by Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall.
If you fancy a guided stroll through the kitchen gardens, a rustic meal, or even a hands-on cookery course, it's essential to book ahead. It's more than just a restaurant - it's a philosophy rooted in the soil.
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Axminster also holds its own when it comes to local history. The Axminster Heritage Centre provides a sweeping view of the town's past, from Stone Age origins and Roman connections to its prominence in the carpet trade.
It's compact, informative, and impressively curated. As the afternoon fades and your sweet tooth calls, head straight for The Community Waffle House.
There's a homely warmth to this place - the waffles are made from a family recipe passed down through generations, and the atmosphere is as inviting as the plates are indulgent.
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As the evening draws in, take a look at what's on at Axminster Guildhall. This humble venue certainly punches above its weight, hosting a variety of events from tribute bands to film nights and comedy shows. It's a relaxed yet vibrant way to round off the day.
Day two in East Devon
Sidmouth is your destination for day two, offering coastal charm and a cultural experience to match. Start your day with breakfast at The Kitchen, part of The Donkey Sanctuary.
It's not just about the hearty and satisfying food - it's also an opportunity to stretch your legs and meet some of the sanctuary's long-eared inhabitants. There's a tranquil atmosphere here that sets the mood for the day.
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Just a short drive away you'll find Kennaway House, an attractive regency mansion that regularly hosts exhibitions and craft fairs. Be sure to check their schedule before you visit as they occasionally close for private functions. If open, it's a delightful place to wander through both contemporary and traditional art.
For those keen to delve deeper into Sidmouth's history, the town's museum provides a glimpse into its rich past - and not just behind glass. They also offer guided walks during the warmer months.
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Whether you choose a historical town tour, a coastal geology stroll, or a shaded tree walk, each option starts and finishes at the museum and includes entry to the exhibits. It's a thoughtful, active way to explore Sidmouth's gentler side.
Then it's off to Exmouth, where the South West Coast Path awaits. Fans of The Salt Path can follow in the footsteps of author Raynor Winn along this dramatic stretch of coastline. Even a half-day walk here feels like stepping into a beautifully written paragraph.
Before you leave Exmouth, make sure to visit A La Ronde - an architectural curiosity built in 1796 by cousins Jane and Mary Parminter. Its 16-sided structure is fascinating in itself, but what really steals the show is the Shell Gallery: a room decorated with thousands of shells in dizzying detail.
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It's the kind of place that's hard to describe without photos.
If your legs (and energy levels) are up for it, the Exmouth Pavilion rounds out the itinerary. From live music to theatre and comedy, it's a fitting place to end your 48 hours with a bit of entertainment and a sense of satisfaction.
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Best festivals on offer
If your dates are flexible, consider timing your visit to coincide with one of East Devon's growing festivals. Sidmouth Sea Fest kicks things off on Saturday 17 May, celebrating the town's maritime spirit with free family fun, live music and local food.
Just a week later, the Sidmouth International Jazz and Blues Festival brings big names like Soul II Soul and Gabrielle to Blackmore Gardens (23–26 May). For a smaller town, Sidmouth boasts a remarkably vibrant cultural scene.
Another standout event is the Budleigh Music Festival. This summer, it's set to host the London African Gospel Choir, Bath Philharmonia, and author Sir Michael Morpurgo, all performing in cosy venues dotted around Budleigh Salterton.
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If your idea of a celebration leans more towards a culinary feast, then the Eat Festivals (also known as Gate to Plate) are just the ticket. The Axminster edition is scheduled for Monday 26 May, promising to fill the streets with some of the finest food and drink that the West Country has to offer.
Where to stay
Whether you're a couple seeking coastal views or a family in search of some countryside tranquillity, East Devon's accommodation options cater to all tastes.
In Sidmouth, the Kingswood and Devoran Hotel provides classic seafront comfort, complete with balconies overlooking the Jurassic Coast. For those who prefer a closer connection with nature, Cuckoo Down Farm offers glamping in safari lodges, complete with campfires and a charming rural setting.
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Higher Wiscombe, also near Sidmouth, caters to larger groups with its luxury self-catering cottages and an outdoor pool - ideal for special occasions. If you're after a cosier rural experience, Twistgates Farm Cottages near Honiton are tucked away within the rolling Blackdown Hills.
For those with a passion for food, The Pig at Combe (Honiton) combines country house elegance with produce from its own kitchen gardens. Over in Axminster, Lower Keats Glamping adds a touch of rustic luxury, while Andrewshayes Holiday Park offers family-friendly facilities and sweeping views of the countryside.
East Devon doesn't clamour for recognition - it garners it subtly. It's a region rich in layered histories, hidden allure, and generous landscapes.
In merely 48 hours, you'll encounter more than a mere change of scenery; you'll experience a change in tempo, a reconnection with the local, and perhaps a rekindling of what makes travel truly significant.
This isn't merely a weekend escape - it's a call to decelerate, observe more keenly, and become enamoured with a part of the country that is confidently authentic.