Coast Road, Lyme Regis

In 8mi/13km from Lyme Regis, the coast road reaches Seaton (pop. 4,300), a seaside resort with good water sports facilities, situated at the mouth of the River Axe.Seaton is an ideal base for visitors wishing to explore the the Dorset and East Devon Jurassic Coast. The South West Coast Path passes through Seaton, which appeals to walkers.

Sidmouth (pop. 11,000), a fashionable place in the early 19th century, is more sophisticated and more attractive than nearby Seaton. This small resort's climate is so mild that eucalyptus trees are able to flourish here. Sidmouth is sheltered from rough winds by reddish cliffs through which the River Sid - hence the town's name - has cut its way. There are many Regency houses, and above the beach there is a small promenade.

Budleigh Salterton (pop. 4,000), at the end of Lyme Bay, is similar in character to Sidmouth.The town of Budleigh Salterton offers a range activities including badminton, tennis, golf, cricket, cycling, and bird watching.

Inland from the coast road lies East Budleigh, a typical Devon village, with a pretty church. It is the birthplace of Sir Walter Raleigh (1522-1618), the English seafarer, writer and favorite of Elizabeth I; the Raleigh coat of arms, borne by stags, can be seen on a pew in the 15th century small parish church of All Saints.A bronze statue of Raleigh was unveiled in 2006 by the Duke of Kent.

Exmouth (pop. 30,000), at the mouth of the wide estuary of the Exe, is a seaside resort with a 2-mile long beach and a promenade at the foot of picturesque red cliffs. At low tide outcrops of rocks are exposed along the beach. During the summer the small harbor provides mooring for numerous sailing boats, many of whose owners come from nearby Exeter.Exmouth is also noted for the variety of architecture including Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian townhouses.

Dawlish (pop. 8,000), on the other side of the Exe estuary from Exmouth, is surrounded by fascinating red cliffs. This more peaceful seaside resort has golden sand and offers good opportunities for swimming.In addition, Dawlish is popular for the active entertainment schedule, the beautiful park located in the centre of the town as well as the museum, theatre and bowling green.

The Regency resort of Teignmouth (pop. 11,900) lies on a tongue of land at the mouth of the River Teign, and thus enjoys a vista out to sea and over the estuary.The town is still a popular holiday resort destination boasting an octagonal parish church, St James. The beach and pier in Teignmouth feature an amusement arcade and rides.

Branscombe is a coastal village that until 1987 featured the last traditional working bakery in Devon. As well as the Old Bakery, visitors can also see the town's Manor Mill and Forge.Branscombe is an ideal base for anyone looking to travel the South West Coast Path, Britain's longest footpath.