Situated on the amazing Jurassic Coast Sidmouth is surrounded by beautiful countryside.
With our position right on the seafront it’s easy to stay seaside and forget the countryside. Yet with three nature reserves just a short distance away we really think you should venture wild side.Here is a short guide to Sidmouth’s nature reserves.
The Knapp Community Nature Reserve
The Knapp at Sidmouth covers just over 3.4 hectares of land and incorporates a meadow, woodland and an orchard. It’s a peaceful green space in Sidmouth with views of the surrounding countryside across to the sea.
It’s a lovely setting for a picnic or a stroll. Listen out for a ‘twit-twoo’ from a tawny owl or the drumming noises from a woodpecker; enjoy the range of wildflowers in the meadow; and look out for signs of badgers in the bramble patch.
Where to find The Knapp: The entrance is on Station Road, Sidmouth, between Alexandria Road and Dean’s Mead.
Delderfield Community Nature Reserve
Just a stone’s throw from the coastal path, Delderfield Nature Reserve is a great place to stop and admire the view. Delderfield is a tranquil wildflower meadow with breathtaking views over Sidmouth. On a clear day you can see across the bay to Portland.
While away a few hours butterfly spotting. Depending on the time of year you may see red admirals, small tortoiseshells, and the different species of blues, whites and fritillary butterflies.
Where to find Delderfield: From Peak Hill (roadside parking), follow the coast path up the hill and when you reach the garage door and gate for ‘The Gazebo’, cross the road and continue up the grass verge for a few metres until you reach a stile.
Fire Beacon Hill Local Nature Reserve
Fire Beacon Hill is an area of lowland heath set at the top of Sidmouth. From here you have a birds eye view of the surrounding countryside. On a clear day you can almost see the entire length of Lyme Bay – from Berry Head to Portland.
Once you’re bored of the view bird watching is the order of the day here. You should be able to spot soaring buzzards, ravens, yellowhammers, dartford warblers and nightjars. Reptiles are also common on this site – adders, common lizards and slowworms can often be seen here.
Where to find Fire Beacon Hill: Head towards Newton Poppleford from Sidmouth and turn right at The Bowd Inn.
If you’re staying with us and would like to explore the surrounding countryside we’ll be pleased to guide and advise you.
