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In
Budleigh Salterton the atmosphere of exclusivity
and peace belies its potential to the visitor
for an active (either physical or intellectual)
holiday.
The numerous sporting clubs, such as croquet,
bowls and golf welcome visitors, while fishing
varies from beach to boat, river to reservoir.
Energetic walkers’ needs are met by strenuous
inland and coastal hikes while the stroller can
enjoy equally numerous and varied paths at their
own pace. For both groups magnificent views
and unspoilt countryside are consistent.
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Lovers of architecture and history have a plethora
of historical buildings to visit, from Exeter's
cathedral to National Trust properties and gardens,
such as Killerton House and Gardens, only a few
miles north of Exeter. Just two miles from Budleigh
is Bicton Park Botanical Gardens with its magnificent
range of trees and plants across 63 acres (not
to mention the excellent gift shop and woodland
railway). In Budleigh itself is the quaintest
of museums which makes learning a pleasure.
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And, of course, there is the famous old sea wall
– where Sir John Millais sketched his masterpiece,
“The Boyhood of Raleigh”, Sir Walter
Raleigh’s birthplace being just two miles
inland.
Arts and crafts seekers will love the characterful
settings and variety of many of the workshops
and galleries, while serious shoppers can find,
in addition to the excellent selection of independent
shops in Budleigh, most of the major high street
stores in Exeter – where there are also
varied theatre productions. |
While the largest “ vessels” taking
to the water on the River Otter these days are
the plastic ducks in the annual Boxing Day charity
Duck Race…a river cruise up the Exe estuary
can be a relaxing trip, starting from the picturesque
town of Topsham just six miles west of Budleigh.
Antique seekers and “yachties” will
also enjoy a visit to Topsham (pronounced “Topsum”)
with its harbourside emporium and chandleries.
Without being “spoilt” by the trappings
of a seaside resort, Budleigh Salterton caters
well for the day visitor – tea rooms are
a–plenty, the shops are varied and, when
seeking the customary ice cream cornet, there
is a wonderful choice of locally produced Devon
ice creams. |
With its characteristic cobbled beach, edged
with colourful beach huts and plenty of benches
on which to sit and appreciate the scenery,
Budleigh Salterton successfully combines an
aura of “days gone by” with the
21st century.
For
a listing of the many festivals and events in
Budleigh Salterton and the surrounding area,
see the events page.
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