Interesting Places

The main feature of nature interest on the seafront is the area known as the Beach Garden; it is a designated area on the shoreline specifically established for nature conservation. This initiative was set up in 2013 by volunteers from Sidmouth in Bloom and the Devon Plant Heritage Group. Its primary purpose is to protect and enhance the local beach plant community, including reintroducing specialist plants that were no longer present.Here's more about Sidmouth's Beach Garden:Location and PurposeThe Beach Garden is located by the Millennium Walkway, near the Belmont Hotel, and extends to a part of the beach where people wouldn't typically sit.It serves as a safe haven for rare and endangered species adapted to the harsh coastal conditions.It aims to enhance Sidmouth’s reputation among green tourism visitors by showcasing local nature.The concept of the Beach Garden aligns with the broader strategy of creating Biodiversity Networks, where such areas act as ""refuel...

Jacob's Ladder is a specific area on the coast in Sidmouth, to the west of the town, known for its beach, cliffs, and  ladder up to the Connaught Gardens on the cliff above. The cliffs to the west of Jacob's Ladder have historically seen significant erosion and landslips.The area includes a bank alongside a walled path that serves as a remnant of an old field boundary. The walkway down to the beach, particularly in summer, can host a wonderful display of wild flowers. Although giving the appearance of being natural grassland the land here has been extensively landscaped to provide paths to the beach and access to the nearby West Hill (aka Peak Hill) and so is considered to be a brownfield site.The habitat is challenging for plants due to the nature of the shingle beach and cliffs, which do not retain rainwater easily, are nutrient-poor, and have high salt concentrations. Plants adapted to salty conditions, known as halophytes, are found here. The banks and walkways provide diff...