South Devon is rich in both coast and countryside, but one destination allows travellers to enjoy the best of both. Situated along the famous Jurassic Coast, this seaside village offers dramatic views and a network of stunning coastal paths.
Beer is a fishing village with a history that traces back to the Anglo-Saxon era, when the settlement was still known as Bearu (translated, “The Groves”). Today, the village’s fishing heritage is evidenced by the boats moored along the beach and the abundant offering of seafood fare in nearly every local restaurant.
Beer is located on the edge of the South West Coast Path, promising avid hikers a myriad of paths to choose from. The South West Coast Path National Trail itself stretches for 630 miles from Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset. Millions descend on the path each year to venture through the dramatic headlands and sweeping valleys and take a much-needed rest by a river estuary.
One of the most popular paths is the coastal walk from Seaton to Beer for its expansive views of the Jurassic Coastline. Another is the 4.5-mile Beer to Branscombe path, a route of moderate difficulty that can be extended for hikers that wish to walk back to Beer instead of jumping on the local bus.
Backed by white limestone cliffs, Beer beach is known for its relative seclusion and impressive views. That said, the shingle and stone beach is better suited for paddleboarders and canoers than it is for sunbathers.
Still, the beach is certainly worth a visit as visitors will be able to marvel at the sight of skilled fishermen taking to the water. The nearby Beer Fisheries Shop and Heritage Centre is also worth a visit and the beach huts and cafes rent out deckchairs for those interested in enjoying the views for a while.
Despite being a predominantly pebbled beach, linked rubber pathways overlain on the stones make the area more accessible and easier to traverse. Keep in mind that while you are permitted to swim in the water, the beach is known to descend quite steeply into the water and is best-suited for confident swimmers.
The Beer Quarry Caves are near to the beach and also worth exploring if you’re in the area. The 2,000 year-old manmade caves are considered one of the most important industrial sites in the British Isles and is also a significant bat hibernaculum.
Guided tours of the cave are available throughout the year and the entrance fee for adults is £13. The caves also host a range of events, including a series known as ‘Concert in the Caves’ as well as wedding and vow renewals.
There are a few other local festivals and events that travellers may want to consider planning their visit around. One of the most famous annual festivals in the village is the Beer Regatta, which is over 100 years old.
The week-long event will feature rowing, sailing and motorboat tournaments as well as an itinerary of family-friendly and fundraising activities. The 2025 Beer Regatta will take place from Saturday, August 9 to Friday, August 15, with the main Regatta Day scheduled for Thursday, August 14.
The Beer Blues Festival is another event to add to your calendar. For a full weekend in October, the village will be celebrating the best of blues with live performances accompanied by delicious local food. The 2025 Blues festival will take place from October 10 to October 12 with full weekend tickets available for £40.
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