Blackmore Gardens
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Blackmore Gardens

4.6
·192 reviews·, United Kingdom

A charming, accessible garden in Sidmouth, offering peaceful nature and vibrant festival energy.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sidmouth Folk Festival week

Vibrant music & craft atmosphere

CrowdHigh
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Blackmore Gardens

Blackmore Gardens

Best Time

Sidmouth Folk Festival week

Vibrant music & craft atmosphere

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming, accessible garden in Sidmouth, offering peaceful nature and vibrant festival energy.

4.6
(192 reviews)

"A tranquil little place to enjoy some relaxation away from the bustle of the town centre. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Festival Fun Awaits

Visit during Sidmouth Folk Festival for live music, dance, and unique artisan stalls.

🐿️ Squirrels Love Snacks!

Bring a small, nature-friendly snack to share with the very friendly squirrels.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sidmouth Folk Festival Buzz

Sidmouth Folk Festival Buzz

Throughout the gardens

Experience the heart of the festival with music, dance, and artisan stalls creating a vibrant, unforgettable atmosphere.

Instagram+1
Friendly Wildlife Encounters

Friendly Wildlife Encounters

Lawns and paths

Enjoy the company of charming squirrels and diverse birdlife, a delightful treat for nature lovers.

Reddit
Historic Garden Charm

Historic Garden Charm

Near the entrance

Discover the history of the former Blackmore Hall estate and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the well-maintained gardens.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Festival Vibe

Blackmore Gardens transforms during the Sidmouth Folk Festival, becoming a hub for music, crafts, and community. Expect lively crowds and a vibrant atmosphere if visiting during this time. Instagram

Tranquil Escape or Lively Hub?

Outside of festival season, Blackmore Gardens offers a peaceful retreat with well-kept paths and friendly wildlife. It's a lovely spot for relaxation, easily accessible with plenty of benches. Reddit

Best Times

When
Sidmouth Folk Festival week
Why
Vibrant music & craft atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Spring mornings
Why
Peaceful with blooming flowers
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Golden light & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Fabulous finale from Fosbrooks at the Blackmore Gardens today! . . . #fosbrooks #clogdancing #folkdance #sidmouthfolkfestival
sidmouthff_dancedisplays
19 likes • 2.1K views

🎯 Festival Fun Awaits

Visit during Sidmouth Folk Festival for live music, dance, and unique artisan stalls. Instagram+2

🐿️ Squirrels Love Snacks!

Bring a small, nature-friendly snack to share with the very friendly squirrels. Reddit

What a super fun start to @sidmouthfolkfestival! It’s been a fun weekend so far, and we’ll be here until Friday so come swing by our stall in Blackmore Gardens! 🪗🎶🎻
hobgoblinmusicbrighton
40 likes • 1.2K views
What a wet but fun day we had in #Sidmouth at #BlackmoreGardens thanks to all who bame and thanks to @eastdevondistrictcouncil for having us.
boxtreeproductions
17 likes • 696 views

🚶‍♀️ Easy Access Paths

Enjoy level tarmac paths, making it accessible for all, unlike some other local gardens. Reddit

🌳 Peaceful Nature Spot

A tranquil place to relax, watch birds, and enjoy the greenery away from the town bustle. InstagramReddit

All set up @sidmouthfolkfestival in Blackmore gardens! Sun is shining and there are lots of beautiful things to see 🌸 #sidmouthfolkfestival #handmadeearrings #handmadebyhollyann
handmadebyhollyann
75 likes • 1.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Festival Fun Awaits

Visit during Sidmouth Folk Festival for live music, dance, and unique artisan stalls. Instagram+2

🐿️ Squirrels Love Snacks!

Bring a small, nature-friendly snack to share with the very friendly squirrels. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Easy Access Paths

Enjoy level tarmac paths, making it accessible for all, unlike some other local gardens. Reddit

🌳 Peaceful Nature Spot

A tranquil place to relax, watch birds, and enjoy the greenery away from the town bustle. InstagramReddit

🌦️ Be Prepared for Showers

Even on sunny festival days, Devon weather can be unpredictable; pack accordingly! Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(192 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Blackmore Gardens to be a lovely, well-kept green space, particularly enjoyable for its accessible paths and friendly wildlife. It shines during the Sidmouth Folk Festival, transforming into a vibrant hub of music and crafts, though this also brings higher crowds. InstagramReddit

"Lovely place. Jazz festival is great, squirrels are friendly and it's quite"

L H

"Lovely place to sit and watch the birds and squirrels"

Amy Heather

"Discovered these pretty and well-kept little gardens while exploring Sidmouth. They are close to the parish church, more accessible than nearby Connaught Gardens, with level tarmac paths and no steps. Plenty of benches. The gardens were once part of a private estate, and there's some interesting information near the entrance about their history and that of the now demolished Blackmore Hall. There are lawns, colourful flower borders, wooded paths, a small conservatory and car parking close by. A tranquil little place to enjoy some relaxation away from the bustle of the town centre."

Valerie Hinchliffe

What People Like

Tranquil atmosphere
Friendly squirrels & birds
Accessible paths

What People Dislike

Can be crowded during festival

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Blackmore Gardens are centrally located in Sidmouth, making them easily accessible on foot from the town centre. There is also car parking nearby, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

Yes, there is car parking available close to Blackmore Gardens, which is a great convenience for those driving to Sidmouth. Reddit

Absolutely! Blackmore Gardens feature level tarmac paths, making them very accessible for wheelchairs, strollers, and those with mobility challenges. Reddit

Yes, Blackmore Gardens are conveniently located near the parish church and are easily reachable on foot from Sidmouth's town centre. Reddit

While specific bus routes vary, Sidmouth is served by local bus services. Checking local transport schedules for routes stopping near the town centre or parish church would be advisable. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Blackmore Gardens are generally free to enter and enjoy, offering a lovely public space for relaxation. Reddit

As a public garden, Blackmore Gardens are typically open daily from dawn until dusk, providing ample time for visits. Reddit

While the gardens themselves are free, specific events or marquees during the Sidmouth Folk Festival might have separate ticket requirements or charges. It's best to check the festival's official schedule for details. InstagramReddit

Information on dog policies can vary. It's advisable to check local signage or council information regarding pet access to ensure compliance. Reddit

Generally, visitors are expected to respect the peace and beauty of the gardens. Specific restrictions might apply during events like the Sidmouth Folk Festival. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The colourful flower borders, mature trees, and the small conservatory offer beautiful backdrops. During the Sidmouth Folk Festival, the vibrant stalls and performers provide dynamic photo opportunities. Instagram+1

For personal use, photography is generally welcome. For commercial or professional shoots, it's wise to inquire with the local council or event organizers beforehand. Instagram

Definitely! The Sidmouth Folk Festival brings a lively energy to Blackmore Gardens, with musicians, dancers, and colourful stalls perfect for capturing the festive spirit. Instagram+1

Morning light can be soft and beautiful for capturing the garden's tranquility, while late afternoon offers a warm glow. Festival days can be bright, so consider a polarizing filter if needed. Instagram

Yes, the clog dancing performances, the bustling artisan stalls, and musicians playing in the gardens are all fantastic subjects for memorable festival photos. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍴 Food & Dining

While there are no permanent cafes within Blackmore Gardens, visitors often bring picnics to enjoy on the lawns or benches. Reddit

During the festival, Blackmore Gardens often host food stalls offering a variety of treats and refreshments, complementing the lively atmosphere. Instagram

Yes, Blackmore Gardens are a perfect spot for a picnic. Many visitors enjoy bringing their lunch to savour amidst the peaceful surroundings. Reddit

Being in the heart of Sidmouth, numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants are just a short walk away from Blackmore Gardens, offering diverse dining choices. Reddit

Festival food stalls can vary, but often include popular choices like snacks, hot drinks, and sometimes local delicacies. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Blackmore Gardens is a wonderful spot for families. The level paths make it easy for strollers and little legs to explore, and the abundance of friendly squirrels and birds provides endless entertainment. Reddit It's a safe and pleasant environment for children to run around and enjoy nature. During the Sidmouth Folk Festival, the lively atmosphere and colourful stalls can be particularly engaging for younger visitors, though it can get crowded. Instagram+1

Consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the lawns, making it a cost-effective and enjoyable outing. The gardens offer a gentle introduction to nature and a break from more structured activities, making them a great addition to a family's Sidmouth itinerary. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Blackmore Gardens is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers as entry is free, offering a beautiful and engaging experience without any cost. Reddit You can enjoy the scenery, watch the wildlife, and soak in the atmosphere without spending a penny. InstagramReddit

To keep costs down, pack your own snacks or a picnic to enjoy in the gardens, rather than relying on cafes or festival food. Reddit If visiting during the Sidmouth Folk Festival, while some stalls might be tempting, simply browsing and enjoying the free entertainment and vibrant atmosphere can be a fulfilling experience in itself. Instagram

couples

For couples, Blackmore Gardens offers a charming and romantic setting. Enjoy a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand along the peaceful paths, or find a quiet bench to relax and chat amidst the beautiful flora. Reddit The gardens provide a lovely backdrop for shared moments and quiet contemplation. Instagram

During the Sidmouth Folk Festival, the lively atmosphere can add a fun, shared experience, with opportunities to browse unique crafts together or enjoy the music. Instagram+1 It’s a versatile spot, perfect for a serene afternoon escape or a lively festival outing, catering to different moods and preferences.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Sidmouth Folk Festival Experience

Blackmore Gardens truly comes alive during the annual Sidmouth Folk Festival, transforming into a vibrant hub of activity. It's a key location for many festival-goers, hosting a variety of artisan stalls, craft vendors, and sometimes even performances. You can find everything from handmade jewellery and crafts to musical instruments and unique gifts. Instagram+2 The atmosphere is electric, with music often filling the air and a general sense of community celebration. It's a fantastic place to soak up the festival spirit, discover local talent, and find unique souvenirs. Instagram+1

Many creators highlight the joy of setting up shop or browsing the stalls in Blackmore Gardens during the festival. It's a chance to connect with artists and enjoy the lively, sometimes wet, but always fun, Devonshire weather. Instagram+1 Even if you're not attending specific ticketed events, the buzz around Blackmore Gardens during the festival is infectious and adds a special dimension to any visit. Instagram

Key takeaway: If you're visiting Sidmouth during the festival, Blackmore Gardens is an unmissable spot for experiencing the heart of the event. Be prepared for crowds and a lively, engaging atmosphere. Instagram+1

A Peaceful Haven for Nature Lovers

Outside of festival times, Blackmore Gardens offers a serene and tranquil escape. Visitors often praise the well-maintained lawns, colourful flower borders, and peaceful wooded paths. It's a perfect spot for a quiet stroll, a moment of reflection, or simply to enjoy the natural beauty. Reddit The gardens are known for their abundance of wildlife, particularly friendly squirrels and a variety of birds, making it a delight for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. InstagramReddit

The accessibility of Blackmore Gardens is another significant plus. With level tarmac paths, it's easy to navigate for everyone, including those with pushchairs or mobility aids. Plenty of benches are dotted around, providing comfortable spots to sit, relax, and observe the surroundings. The gardens also hold historical interest, with information available about the former Blackmore Hall estate. Reddit

Key takeaway: For a peaceful retreat and a chance to connect with nature, Blackmore Gardens is an ideal destination, offering a calm contrast to the busier parts of Sidmouth. Reddit

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