‘Wonderfully unspoilt' seaside town in Devon is one of the UK's best hidden spots
Budleigh Salterton is a "wonderfully unspoilt" seaside town in Devon, according to Sweetcombe Cottage Holidays.
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Located just 20-minutes from Sidmouth, Budleigh Salterton is home to a huge beach and has fewer crowds than its popular neighbour.
Just 7,000 people live in the seaside town.
One person said in a Tripadvisor review: "Great scenery, friendly community, always clean, and great for the family."
Another added that it is "wonderfully unspoilt".
Alex Gwillim, a local expert from Sweetcombe Cottage Holidays said: "People often miss out on a visit to Budleigh Salterton because it is nestled between more popular destinations like Exmouth and Sidmouth which draw big crowds on a nice day.
"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."
There are plenty of things to do in the town including watersports such as paddle-boarding and kayaking, and there is a number of beach walks with local tea rooms and cafes.
And as usual with quaint seaside towns - there is a great range of independent shops too.
"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," added Alex.
"There are also easy walking trails with fantastic views of the Triassic sandstone cliffs and their fascinating geology."
The perfect Haven holiday park for a kid-friendly break - with direct beach access, indoor waterpark and neighbouring seaside theme park
In fact, the whole region is bursting with wildlife including beavers - which were once extinct but thanks to a reintroduction programme, they are now thriving around the town.
As for places to stay, there are also a good amount of options.
"[Because the town isn't too big, everything is easily accessible, and the beach is right on your doorstep," she continued.
What makes the destination even better is that Budleigh Salterton's beach is one of the top 10 beaches in the South West, according to The Times and Sunday Times.
The waters have been rated as 'excellent' in the GOV.UK Bathing Water Classifications 2024 - so it is a great spot if you want to take a dip.
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And if you are worried about the beach being busy - it stretches 2.5miles long, so you are bound to find a spot.
If you happen to be in the town during March or September, you can also attend the Budleigh Salterton Literature Festival which is one of the UK's best loved literary events, according to Visit Devon.
The town also has an interesting history with connections to Sir Walter Raleigh - who was born nearby - and the region's salt-panning industry contributing the name 'Salterton'.
Devon is also home to a Victorian English seaside town with no arcades or loud rides that has one of the UK's best beaches and it is loved by celebs.
Plus, the hidden English beach that's the 'most beautiful place in the world' to close until next year.
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