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Discover Sidmouth from The Kingswood Hotel

We’re right in the heart of Sidmouth esplanade, perfectly placed for everything East Devon coast has to offer. Step straight onto the beach, join the South West Coast Path for stunning clifftop walks or explore the events and activities happening right on our doorstep.

Whether you’re visiting in spring, summer, autumn or winter, there’s always something special happening in Sidmouth. And you’re perfectly positioned to enjoy it all.

Sidmouth Sea Fest

15-16 May 2026

Sidmouth Sea Fest brings coastal celebration to life at the beautiful Connaught Gardens. This free family fun day runs from 10am to 5pm, featuring live music, local food and craft stalls, and activities celebrating Sidmouth’s seaside heritage. As evening falls, the festival transitions into a ticketed party night with DJs, live bands, bar and food vendors. It’s a homegrown festival platform by the sea, supporting young artists and community talent in one of Devon’s most stunning clifftop locations.

Sidmouth International Jazz and Blues Festival 2026

22-25 May 2026

Get ready for four days of exceptional live music at the Sidmouth International Jazz and Blues Festival. This internationally acclaimed festival transforms Sidmouth into a vibrant jazz and blues haven, featuring world-class artists performing on outdoor stages at Blackmore Gardens and Peacock Lawn. Enjoy free fringe events across local pubs, hotels and cafés along the seafront, plus educational workshops and masterclasses. With something for everyone from smooth jazz to electric blues, it’s the perfect spring bank holiday celebration on Devon’s stunning coastline. With a lineup including Jools Holland, Emile Sandé, Macy Gray and Incognito, it’s one not to miss.

Sidmouth’s Secluded Gardens

27-29 June 2026

Step behind the garden gates and discover Sidmouth’s best-kept horticultural secrets. Six stunning private gardens open their doors for one weekend only, each offering a completely different experience. Wander through wildflower meadows with sweeping sea views, explore secret terraced rooms divided by yew hedges, marvel at the National Collection of Artemisia in a 2.5-acre organic sanctuary, or lose yourself in wildlife ponds and cutting gardens bursting with colour.

Organised by the award-winning Sidmouth in Bloom volunteer group, this charming event lets you peek into gardens you’d never normally see, with some offering homemade teas and cakes too. All proceeds going towards keeping Sidmouth blooming beautiful. It’s a perfect way to spend a lazy summer weekend on the Jurassic Coast, combining horticultural inspiration with that quintessentially English tradition of nosey neighbouring done right.

SidyFest 2026

11 July 2026

SidyFest is Sidmouth’s exciting community music festival, brought to you by the Sidmouth Rugby Club. Bringing fresh energy, music, food and fun to the town for one day only. Going into its second year, this growing festival celebrates emerging talent and established acts across multiple genres, creating an inclusive atmosphere perfect for music lovers of all ages. So, get ready to party on the pitch – eat, drink, dance and soak up some sunshine!

Sidmouth International Folk Festival 2026

1-8 August 2026

Experience the magic of the annual Sidmouth International Folk Festival in our beautiful seaside town in Devon. Celebrating over 70 years of tradition, this week-long festival brings world-class folk music, dance and song to the stunning Jurassic Coast. From grass roots performers to cutting edge artists, enjoy live performances across multiple venues including Blackmore Gardens, street performances and intimate sessions. Perfect for families and folk enthusiasts alike, the festival creates an inclusive community atmosphere that embraces variety and celebrates traditional arts in all their forms.

Taking place right here on the esplanade and in venues that are easily walkable from The Kingswood, it’s the perfect base for a week of folking!

Sidmouth Regatta and Red Arrows 2026

22-24 August 2026

The Sidmouth Regatta weekend is one of the town’s most anticipated annual events, kicking off on Friday 22 August 2026 with a spectacular airshow featuring the RAF Red Arrows. Watch the world-famous aerobatic display team perform breathtaking manoeuvres over the seafront, followed by three days of traditional regatta fun including community land and sea events. This free family-friendly weekend combines thrilling aerial displays with classic seaside entertainment, fireworks and local festivities, making it a must-see highlight of Sidmouth’s summer calendar.

Sidmouth Walking Festival

13-19 September 2026

Discover the breathtaking beauty of East Devon at the Sidmouth Walking Festival. This week-long celebration offers five guided walks daily across some of the most spectacular scenery in the region, from dramatic Jurassic Coast cliffs and golden beaches to tranquil woodland trails and historic villages. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or prefer gentle strolls, all walks are free with advance booking and cater to every ability level. Explore the East Devon Way, Sid Valley Ring and stunning coastal paths with knowledgeable local guides from the East Devon Ramblers.

Sidmouth Science Festival

9-18 October 2026

The Sidmouth Science Festival returns for ten days of fascinating activities, talks and hands-on experiences for all ages. With a focus on making STEM subjects accessible and engaging, the festival features expert talks, family-friendly workshops, guided walks and interactive demonstrations. Many events are free, making it perfect for curious minds of all ages. From the annual schools’ art exhibition to specialist lectures and outdoor activities, the festival brings science to life in creative and inspiring ways.

Sidmouth in Bloom

Spring through autumn 2026

Sidmouth in Bloom is an award-winning community initiative that beautifies the town with stunning floral displays throughout spring and summer. While not a single-day event, the gold-winning Britain in Bloom displays transform Sidmouth into a vibrant garden town from spring through autumn. Visitors can enjoy the spectacular Valley of a Million Blooms featuring daffodils, bluebells and crocuses, plus carefully maintained displays across parks, gardens and public spaces. It’s a year-round celebration of Sidmouth’s natural beauty and dedicated community volunteers.

The Salt Path: Sidmouth’s role in a journey of courage and discovery

Raynor Winn’s The Salt Path is more than a memoir – it’s a testament to human resilience, a love letter to the British coastline and an invitation to discover the healing power of nature. The Salt Path has hit the big screen in an adaptation featuring Gillian Anderson and Jason Isaacs.

The Kingswood provides the perfect retreat after a day of exploration on The Salt Path. Unwind with a drink and enjoy a delicious dinner before retreating to a comfortable bed. We’d be delighted to welcome you for your adventures.