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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant music & craft atmosphere

Blackmore Gardens
Best Time
Vibrant music & craft atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, accessible garden in Sidmouth, offering peaceful nature and vibrant festival energy.
"A tranquil little place to enjoy some relaxation away from the bustle of the town centre. "

🎯 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sidmouth Folk Festival Buzz
Throughout the gardens
Experience the heart of the festival with music, dance, and artisan stalls creating a vibrant, unforgettable atmosphere.
Friendly Wildlife Encounters
Lawns and paths
Enjoy the company of charming squirrels and diverse birdlife, a delightful treat for nature lovers.
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.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Festival Vibe
Tranquil Escape or Lively Hub?
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
🚶♀️ Easy Access Paths
Enjoy level tarmac paths, making it accessible for all, unlike some other local gardens.
🌳 Peaceful Nature Spot
A tranquil place to relax, watch birds, and enjoy the greenery away from the town bustle.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 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.
🚶♀️ Easy Access Paths
Enjoy level tarmac paths, making it accessible for all, unlike some other local gardens.
🌳 Peaceful Nature Spot
A tranquil place to relax, watch birds, and enjoy the greenery away from the town bustle.
🌦️ Be Prepared for Showers
Even on sunny festival days, Devon weather can be unpredictable; pack accordingly!
What Travellers Say
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.
"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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, there is car parking available close to Blackmore Gardens, which is a great convenience for those driving to Sidmouth.
Absolutely! Blackmore Gardens feature level tarmac paths, making them very accessible for wheelchairs, strollers, and those with mobility challenges.
Yes, Blackmore Gardens are conveniently located near the parish church and are easily reachable on foot from Sidmouth's town centre.
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.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Blackmore Gardens are generally free to enter and enjoy, offering a lovely public space for relaxation.
As a public garden, Blackmore Gardens are typically open daily from dawn until dusk, providing ample time for visits.
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.
Information on dog policies can vary. It's advisable to check local signage or council information regarding pet access to ensure compliance.
Generally, visitors are expected to respect the peace and beauty of the gardens. Specific restrictions might apply during events like the Sidmouth Folk Festival.
📸 📸 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.
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.
Definitely! The Sidmouth Folk Festival brings a lively energy to Blackmore Gardens, with musicians, dancers, and colourful stalls perfect for capturing the festive spirit.
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.
Yes, the clog dancing performances, the bustling artisan stalls, and musicians playing in the gardens are all fantastic subjects for memorable festival photos.
🍽️ 🍴 Food & Dining
While there are no permanent cafes within Blackmore Gardens, visitors often bring picnics to enjoy on the lawns or benches.
During the festival, Blackmore Gardens often host food stalls offering a variety of treats and refreshments, complementing the lively atmosphere.
Yes, Blackmore Gardens are a perfect spot for a picnic. Many visitors enjoy bringing their lunch to savour amidst the peaceful surroundings.
Being in the heart of Sidmouth, numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants are just a short walk away from Blackmore Gardens, offering diverse dining choices.
Festival food stalls can vary, but often include popular choices like snacks, hot drinks, and sometimes local delicacies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
To keep costs down, pack your own snacks or a picnic to enjoy in the gardens, rather than relying on cafes or festival food. 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.
couples
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. 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
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. 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.
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.
A Peaceful Haven for Nature Lovers
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.
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.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit