What’s on in Sidmouth
Red Arrow Sidmouth
Sidmouth’s skies will come alive on Friday 22 August 2025 as the much-anticipated Sidmouth Regatta Airshow makes its return, kicking off the town’s annual Regatta Weekend. With something for all ages, this thrilling late-afternoon spectacle begins at approximately 4.30pm with a captivating display by the Sidmouth Lifeboat team. Demonstrating their rescue capabilities in the Arctic 24 Lifeboat and backup Sea Rider RIB, they may also be joined by the Exmouth Lifeboat, subject to availability.
Taking to the skies first is Rich Goodwin in his modified Pitts Biplane—now powered by two ATM Lynx Jet turbines in addition to its 8.5-litre Lycoming engine, promising a high-thrust performance full of dynamic aerobatics.
A highlight this year is the AeroSuperbatics Wing Walkers, making their Sidmouth debut. This world-renowned duo will perform daring routines atop two classic 1940s Boeing Stearman biplanes, delivering breath-taking stunts and precision flying.
Bringing the event to a spectacular close, the Red Arrows—the iconic RAF Aerobatic Team—will return to wow crowds with their world-class formation flying and synchronised displays.
Whether you're a local or visiting Sidmouth for the weekend, this free event is a must-see and a thrilling celebration of skill, heritage, and seaside spirit.
Sidmouth Regatta 22-24 August
Sidmouth Regatta Weekend, including the Airshow, is scheduled for August 22-24, 2025, and will take place over the August Bank Holiday weekend. The event is known for its thrilling sailing races, spectacular air displays, and the backdrop of the Jurassic Coast. The Sidmouth Airshow will feature flypasts over the seafront and Esplanade, with impressive aerobatic displays. Organizers confirmed that the event welcomes around 25,000 visitors annually. Photograph by Simon Horn
Sidmouth Folk Festival
The Sidmouth Folk Festival returns again in August, bringing a vibrant mix of traditional music, dance, and song to the Devon coast. With performances, workshops, ceilidhs, and family activities, it transforms the town into a celebration of folk culture. Expect lively streets, seafront sessions, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages. A true highlight of the British summer.
Sidmouth Walking Festival
When: 13th - 19th September 2025
Where: Sidmouth & East Devon
Autumn’s quieter atmosphere and soft light make this the perfect time for scenic walks. Sidmouth Walking Festival includes a range of guided walks, from gentle riverside routes to coastal cliff paths, which are accessible and enjoyable for all walking abilities. It's a great chance to take in views of the Jurassic Coast and East Devon countryside, in company or solo.
Seaweed Foraging with Ebb Tides
When: Sunday 7th September 2025.
Where: The Dairy, Sidmouth 2-4pm
Event description: This event is part of the Taste East Devon Festival which runs from 7th - 14th September 2025. Discover the amazing world of seaweeds off the beautiful East Devon coast with award-winning seaweed business, Ebb Tides.
Sidmouth Science Festival 2025
When: October 10 to October 19, 2025
Where: Various venues, Sidmouth
Event description: Over 100 science-themed events including walks, talks, hands-on activities and exhibitions. A paper copy of the programme is available from Tourist Information Centres, Libraries and other outlets. Nearly all events are free. The exceptions are where there is a specific mention of cost.
Sidmouth Classic Car Show
The Classic Car Show on 20th September 2025 at Sidmouth Cricket Club features vintage and rare vehicles overlooking the sea. It’s a relaxed, charming event with easy access and a lovely seaside setting, a colourful spectacle that pairs nicely with a gentle seaside stroll afterward.
Donkey Sanctuary Memorial Day
Celebrate the joy of The Donkey Sanctuary this autumn with its annual Memorial Day - 4th Ocotober. This special event honours the sanctuary’s incredible rescue work and the wonderful donkeys who call it home. It’s a warm, welcoming day out for all ages—just a short, scenic drive from Sidmouth, and no booking is required!
Norman Lockyer Observatory Evening Guided Tours
Public Observatory Tour: The Milky Way
Thursday, 11 September·7:30 – 10:30pm
Norman Lockyer Observatory, Salcombe Hill, Sidmouth EX10 0NY, UK
This is a chance to have visit the observatory and hopefully see some of the objects in the night sky. The planned tour starts at 19:30 BST and is guided rather than fully open. Please arrive in time to make sure you don't miss any part of the events!
Adults: £10
Children: £5
Family: £25
Enquiries: 01395 579941 or email enquiries@normanlockyer.org.
Manor Pavilion Theatre
This beautiful theatre is full of charm, history and character. Conveniently situated in the heart of Sidmouth, the theatre has a wide range of entertainment and quality programming all-year round including Plays, Musicals, Comedies, Touring Productions, Tribute Acts, Lectures, Circus and Variety Shows, Dance Shows, Ballet and Pantomime. If you wish to visit we can arrange early dining in the hotel restaurant.
Radway Cinema
When: radway cinema
Where: Radway, Sidmouth
Event description: Once the largest screen in Devon, the Radway Cinema offers comfortable seating with side tables; tea & coffee during screenings. Watch not only the latest box office films but Opera, Theatre Plays and, on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, Silver Screen, which shows a selection of the year's best films at a reduced rate!
Sidmouth Museum
When: Excellent museum - all about Sidmouth
Where: Just a five minute walk from the hotel in Church Street.
Event description: It really is worth a visit. There is something for everyone; from the geological history of the Jurassic coastline to how Victorians lived in the town. Monday - Saturday 10.00-16.00 / Sunday Closed - Admission Adults £2.50 Under 16s and SVA Members Free
More details on the museum website
Sidmouth International Jazz and Blues Festival
The 2026 Sidmouth International Jazz and Blues Festival takes place late May. it will have a similar line up to last year with a stellar line up of international acts. Headlining artistes include British soul legends Soul II Soul, acclaimed British soul singer-songwriter Gabrielle, American jazz singer, saxophonist and composer, Curtis Stigers, and Grammy-nominated American blues troubadour Eric Bibb. A fabulous, packed programme of daytime music performances take place on the main outdoor stage from Saturday to Monday, plus free street music bringing the streets of Sidmouth alive with the sounds of New Orleans, a free education programme plus free music at an array of local venues.