The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth
Approx. 10 minutes’ drive – Official website
A much-loved local favourite and completely free to enter. Wander the fields, meet hundreds of rescued donkeys, enjoy outdoor play areas and follow family-friendly trails. There’s a café, picnic spots and beautiful sea views from the clifftop paths. Ideal for a gentle, feel-good day out with younger children and grandparents.
Seaton Tramway, Seaton
Approx. 20 minutes’ drive – Official website
Take a vintage narrow-gauge tram along the Axe Valley from Seaton to Colyton. Kids love riding on the open-top decks, and there’s plenty of wildlife to spot across the marshes. Look out for themed events and family activities, particularly in school holidays.
Crealy Theme Park & Resort, nr Exeter
Approx. 25 minutes’ drive – Official website
Just beyond the 20-mile mark but worth mentioning for thrill-seekers. Crealy offers rollercoasters, water rides, indoor soft play and animal encounters – a big day out that’s perfect when the children want excitement and variety.
World of Country Life, Exmouth
Approx. 30 minutes’ drive – Official website
Also slightly over 20 miles but very popular with families. Expect farm animals, deer train safaris, indoor and outdoor play areas, vintage vehicles and regular hands-on activities. A great all-weather option. Not open over Winter.
Bicton Park Botanical Gardens
Approx. 20 minutes’ drive – Official website
Beautiful historic gardens with plenty for children: a woodland railway, large outdoor play areas, mini golf and space to run. Adults can enjoy the glasshouses and landscaped grounds, while kids let off steam.
Escot Estate / Wildwood Devon
Approx. 25 minutes’ drive – Official website
Wildwood Devon at Escot combines wildlife conservation with adventure. See native species such as wolves, lynx and wild boar, then tackle the maze, woodland trails and play areas. It feels like a proper countryside day out.
Jurassic Coast Beaches: Sidmouth, Beer & Branscombe
From Sea-Renity you’re already just a short walk from Sidmouth’s beach and Esplanade. Within a 20-minute drive you can also reach: Beer: A charming pebble cove with fishing boats, rock pools and beach cafés.
Branscombe: One of the longest villages in England, with a lovely beach, walks and traditional pubs.
Pack buckets and spades, hunt for fossils (carefully) and enjoy simple seaside fun.
Exeter: Cathedral & Quayside
Approx. 30 minutes’ drive
For a change of scene, head to Exeter. Explore the stunning Cathedral Green, wander the historic quayside and browse the shops. There are family-friendly museums and plenty of places to eat, making it an easy city day trip.
Whether you fancy donkeys and gentle walks, adrenaline-filled rides or classic bucket-and-spade beaches, Sea-Renity is a comfortable base for memorable family days out across East Devon and the Jurassic Coast.
