Bulverton Hill and Woods
Tranquil woodland walks and scenic hill views near Sidmouth, offering a perfect base for coastal exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blossoms and fresh air
Bulverton Hill and Woods
Best Time
Blossoms and fresh air
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tranquil woodland walks and scenic hill views near Sidmouth, offering a perfect base for coastal exploration.
"Highly recommend Bulverton House for a luxurious yet homely experience in an amazing location."
🐾 Dog-Friendly Walks
The Knapp and Knowle Arena offer safe, secure spaces for off-lead dog walks, just a short stroll away. :dog:
🥾 Comfortable Footwear Essential
Pack sturdy shoes for exploring the varied terrain of the woods and hills. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Woodland Trails
Bulverton Woods
Wander through peaceful woods, perfect for a tranquil stroll or a refreshing nature escape.
Panoramic Hill Views
Bulverton Hill
Ascend for breathtaking vistas of the surrounding countryside and the distant coastline.
Proximity to Sidmouth
Near Sidmouth
Enjoy easy access to the charming seaside town of Sidmouth for beaches, shops, and dining.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Coastal Charm
Gateway to Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Walks
The Knapp and Knowle Arena offer safe, secure spaces for off-lead dog walks, just a short stroll away. :dog:
🥾 Comfortable Footwear Essential
Pack sturdy shoes for exploring the varied terrain of the woods and hills. :athletic_shoe:
🏡 Cozy Cottage Stays
Highly recommended! Cottages like Sampson, Bulverton House, and Orlando offer comfort and amenities. :housewithgarden:
🚗 Easy Access to Sidmouth
A short 5-minute drive or a pleasant 25-minute walk to Sidmouth town and beach. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Walks
The Knapp and Knowle Arena offer safe, secure spaces for off-lead dog walks, just a short stroll away. :dog:
🥾 Comfortable Footwear Essential
Pack sturdy shoes for exploring the varied terrain of the woods and hills. :athletic_shoe:
🏡 Cozy Cottage Stays
Highly recommended! Cottages like Sampson, Bulverton House, and Orlando offer comfort and amenities. :housewithgarden:
🚗 Easy Access to Sidmouth
A short 5-minute drive or a pleasant 25-minute walk to Sidmouth town and beach. :car:
🗺️ Local Host Recommendations
Hosts Chris and Ellen are invaluable for local tips on walks, restaurants, and nearby attractions. :iphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bulverton Hill and Woods as a beautiful and tranquil natural escape, perfectly complemented by exceptional local hospitality. The well-appointed cottages and the warm welcome from hosts Chris and Ellen are frequently highlighted as major draws, making it an ideal base for exploring Sidmouth and the Jurassic Coast.
"Myself, Rita, Sarah and Bob stayed at Sampson Cottage, Bulverton House, again for 3 nights from the 30th August to the 2nd September 2025 inclusive.
This is a great place to stay for 2 x couples with all your needs catered for within the cottage. You are welcomed with scones, jam and cream and a personable visit by Chris and Ellen, the owners, to make sure all is well.
The standard of the cottage is extremely high and there is also a secure little garden to let your pet out in the morning or at night.
The centre of Sidmouth and the Beach is only around 5 minutes away by car, or should you wish to walk around 25 minutes away.
There are a couple of places to walk your dog, 10-15 minutes walk from the cottage, known as the Knapp and the Knowle Arena, which are safe and secure to let your dogs off the lead.
Sidmouth is a lovely seaside town with a great variety of shops, you can while your time away, if so inclined.
Beer and Branscombe are not too far away and are also worth a visit, whilst Exeter, a cathedral city, is not that far away either.
We can highly recommend the 3 cottages at Bulverton House and the surrounding countryside and will return again in the very near future."
James Craddock
"FIRST REVIEW (Dec 2023):
This was my first time to an English seaside town and I was pleasantly surprised. The cottage was cozy and very comfortable, especially the bed. The place was well stocked with amenities including a fully operational kitchen and even thoughtful decorations to make the place feel like home.
Sidmouth town was just a short 20 minute walk away. We were also recommended by the friendly hosts (Chris and Ellen) to visit Lyme Regis and Exeter city, both of which were definitely worth a visit.
Will definitely recommend for couples and families!
SECOND REVIEW (May 2025):
This was our second visit to Bulverton House within a period of two years. The hosts, Chris and Ellen, welcomed us warmly and were still as friendly and helpful as we remembered.
We stayed in Delderfield from 27 to 31 May. Just like the Sampson let we stayed in last time, it was impeccably spotless and well equipped, while the comfortable bed and well maintained furniture ensured a pleasant stay. We once again appreciated the property’s close proximity to the peaceful seaside town of Sidmouth.
Would highly recommend to those looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay, along with cheery hosts."
Ethan Ong
"We had a wonderful holiday 2 weeks ago staying at Bulverton house.
Bulverton house is an ideal base for Sidmouth and the surrounding area. It’s set in a quiet location and within walking distance to the town and beach. We stayed in the luxurious Orlando Cottage which was very cosy and comfortable. The kitchen is well equipped, stocked and spotlessly clean. Orlando cottage has a lovely courtyard where we sat and enjoyed our breakfasts and also a lovely place to have a drink at the end of the day. It was the perfect place for us to come back to after a long day out fossils hunting. Many thanks to hosts Chris and Ellen for making us feel so welcome at Bulverton House. We would highly recommend to our family and friends."
Gina Ngiam
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bulverton Hill and Woods are located near Sidmouth. If driving, follow local signage. For public transport, buses to Sidmouth are frequent, and then it's a walk or short taxi ride to the woods. Many visitors find it convenient to stay in nearby cottages which offer excellent access.
While specific parking details for the woods themselves can vary, accommodations like Bulverton House often provide parking for guests. If visiting for a walk, consider parking in Sidmouth and walking to the area.
Yes, Sidmouth town and beach are approximately a 25-minute walk from the Bulverton area, making it a pleasant option for those who enjoy a stroll.
The nearest major transport hub is Exeter, with regular bus services connecting to Sidmouth. From Sidmouth, local buses or taxis can take you closer to Bulverton.
The woods are generally accessible from local roads and paths. If staying locally, hosts can provide precise directions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Bulverton Hill and Woods are natural areas and typically do not require an entrance fee. Enjoy the natural beauty freely.
As natural landscapes, there are no set opening or closing hours. You can visit at any time, though daylight hours are recommended for safety and enjoyment.
While official guided tours might not be common, local hosts or walking groups may offer insights. The best 'guide' is often the local knowledge shared by residents.
No, the surrounding countryside and walking areas like The Knapp and Knowle Arena are free to access.
Yes, the area is accessible year-round, though weather conditions may affect the experience. Spring and autumn are particularly beautiful.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy walking, hiking, nature observation, and photography. The woods offer peaceful trails, and the hill provides scenic viewpoints. It's also a great base for exploring nearby Sidmouth and the Jurassic Coast.
While not always formally marked with signs, the woods have established paths that are easy to follow for walking. Local advice can help navigate the best routes.
Bulverton Hill offers varying gradients. Some paths are gentle, while others are steeper. It's generally manageable for most walkers, offering rewarding views.
As a natural area, facilities are minimal. It's advisable to bring your own water and snacks. Nearby Sidmouth offers cafes and restrooms.
Absolutely! The varied landscapes, from woodland to hilltop vistas, offer excellent opportunities for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly within Bulverton Hill and Woods. However, the nearby town of Sidmouth offers a wide array of cafes, pubs, and restaurants to suit all tastes.
Picnicking is a great idea! Find a scenic spot in the woods or on the hill to enjoy your own food. Remember to take all your litter with you.
Sidmouth has many highly-rated eateries. Visitors often praise the local pubs for traditional fare and the seaside cafes for fresh seafood. Ask local hosts for their favorites!
Yes, Sidmouth has several grocery stores and local shops where you can purchase picnic items and other essentials.
Accommodations like Bulverton House are self-catering cottages, meaning they have well-equipped kitchens for you to prepare your own meals. They often provide welcome treats like scones, jam, and cream.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit of Bulverton Hill offers panoramic views, ideal for landscape shots. The woodland paths provide opportunities for atmospheric forest photography, especially with dappled light.
Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most dramatic and flattering light for both the hills and the woods. Midday can be harsh.
Look for the varied textures of the woodland, the sweeping coastal views from the hill, and the charming local flora and fauna. The red cliffs near Sidmouth are also a unique subject.
A versatile lens (e.g., a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive views from the hill. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions.
Drone regulations can vary. It's always best to check local bylaws and guidelines before flying a drone in natural or residential areas to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Local accommodations, like the cottages at Bulverton House, are often family-friendly, providing ample space and amenities to make a family stay comfortable. The hosts' local knowledge can also be invaluable for identifying kid-appropriate activities and dining options in and around Sidmouth.
🐶 Dog Owners
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Photographers will find ample inspiration here, with opportunities to capture dramatic landscapes from the hilltop and atmospheric shots within the woods. The local hosts are also a fantastic resource for discovering lesser-known trails and the best viewpoints.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Natural Beauty
Visitors often highlight the area's accessibility and its role as a gateway to further exploration. The proximity to Sidmouth means you can easily combine a nature walk with a visit to the charming seaside town. For dog owners, areas like The Knapp and Knowle Arena are specifically mentioned as safe and secure places for dogs to roam off-lead, adding to the area's appeal for a wider range of visitors.
When planning your visit, remember that these are natural landscapes. While beautiful year-round, spring offers blooming flora, and autumn provides a spectacle of changing leaf colors. Always wear appropriate footwear for walking on uneven terrain and consider bringing water and snacks, as facilities are limited within the woods and on the hill itself.
Accommodation and Local Hospitality
The owners, Chris and Ellen, are repeatedly commended for their amazing hospitality, friendliness, and helpfulness. They are a valuable resource for visitors, offering detailed recommendations for local restaurants, walking routes, and nearby attractions such as Lyme Regis and Exeter. This level of personal service significantly enhances the visitor experience, making guests feel truly at home and well-cared for.
These self-catering cottages are described as impeccably spotless, well-equipped with fully operational kitchens, and featuring comfortable furnishings. Many also boast private courtyards or gardens, providing lovely spaces to relax. The convenient location, within walking distance or a short drive to Sidmouth, makes these accommodations an ideal base for exploring both the natural beauty of Bulverton and the attractions of the Jurassic Coast.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit