Budleigh Salterton on Devon’s Jurassic Coast is often overlooked by visitors, but this charming town boasts a stunning pebble beach named in The Times’ Top 10, dramatic red sandstone cliffs and miles of pristine coastal paths
Budleigh Salterton beach is an untouched and sprawling haven(Image: Getty Images)
A stunning coastal town tucked away on Devon’s Jurassic Coast has been hailed as one of Britain’s best-kept secrets.
Budleigh Salterton, a delightful town situated between Exmouth and Sidmouth, continues to be one of the region’s most underappreciated spots, despite being amongst the most picturesque, with miles of pristine coastline. It sits at the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Jurassic Coast, renowned for its striking cliffs and meandering coastal trails, though the town deserves recognition in its own right.
Alex Gwillim, a regional expert from Sweetcombe Cottage Holidays, spoke enthusiastically about Budleigh Salterton. He said: “Budleigh Salterton is a real hidden gem, boasting a beautiful pebble beach that stretches over two miles, the iconic red sandstone cliffs of the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic coast, and a small town filled with unique local businesses to explore.”
He further noted that “people often miss out on a visit to Budleigh Salterton” due to its location between the popular tourist magnets of Exmouth and Sidmouth, “which draw big crowds on a nice day.”
Last year, The Times featured Budleigh Salterton’s beach in its Top 10 Beaches in the South West, praising its expansive coastline. Furthermore, the Bathing Water Classifications 2024 granted its waters an “excellent” rating, rendering them perfect for swimming and water sports, reports the Express.
For thrill-seekers, Alex highlighted the excellent selection of water sports on offer in Budleigh Salterton, with stand-up paddleboards and kayaks available for hire throughout the warmer months, giving holidaymakers the chance to explore the stunning coastline from the sea. For visitors after a tranquil escape, there’s plenty to savour, from relaxing walks along the shore to sampling the offerings at local cafes and inviting tea rooms.
Alex shared some extra advice for prospective visitors: “Budleigh Salterton is also the perfect spot for nature lovers. Head along the beach towards the Otter Estuary Nature Reserve, a popular spot for bird watching.
“There are also easy walking trails with fantastic views of the Triassic sandstone cliffs and their fascinating geology.”
If you’re planning to book a staycation in Budleigh Salterton, there’s an abundance of charming cottages, B&Bs and hotels on offer. Due to the town’s modest size, you’ll virtually have the beach right outside your door, regardless of where you decide to stay.
Holidaymakers to Budleigh Salterton have posted glowing reviews about the beach on TripAdvisor. One delighted visitor wrote: “We loved this beach. It was nice and quiet. People were swimming and paddleboarding, and it was perfect as the sea was so calm. It was nice and quiet despite it being a sunny June Sunday.”
One visitor lauded the area, stating: “It has a lovely walk along the well-kept promenade. Plenty of benches to rest a while and take in the view. Also well served with places to get a coffee, ice cream and lunch, etc. No awful arcades just wonderfully unspoilt.”
Another chimed in: “Fabulous place to go for a walk. One can walk to Exmouth and be back in less than 4 hours. The whole walk was relaxing and the fabulous scenery.”
A further enthusiast shared: “Great scenery, friendly community, always clean and great for the family, there is a great relaxing walk across the seafront which is accessible for everyone,”.
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