🎭The Cannon Theatre

The Cannon Theatre is a community-run venue in Sidmouth offering a diverse programme of live performances including plays, comedy, music, and children's shows. With a seating capacity of around 200, it provides an intimate setting that is great for families. The theatre often hosts kid-friendly productions during school holidays and runs occasional workshops. - Highlights: Family-friendly shows, workshops, and panto. - Ages: Suitable for all, but some shows recommend ages 3+. - Facilities: Small café/bar, accessible seating, pushchair parking. - Practical Tips: Check the website for child-friendly performances; book in advance for popular events.

The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth, Devon, is a world-famous charity dedicated to the rescue and care of donkeys. Visitors can explore the beautiful 50-acre site, meet hundreds of friendly donkeys in their natural habitats, and learn about the sanctuary's global work. Highlights include the indoor visitor center with interactive exhibits, a discovery barn where you can pet and groom donkeys, and scenic coastal walks through the donkey fields. The on-site café serves plant-based meals and there is a well-stocked gift shop. Free entry and parking make it an affordable day out for families. Facilities include pushchair-friendly paths, baby-changing stations, and accessible toilets. The sanctuary is mostly outdoor, but undercover areas and the visitor center provide shelter on rainy days. There are several picnic spots and a large play area for children. Recommended for all ages, with gentle donkeys that love attention; toddlers can safely pet them under supervision. The sanctuary also runs educational talks and feeding demonstrations throughout the day.

Pecorama is a family-friendly attraction in Beer, Devon, known for its extensive model railway displays and beautiful gardens. The main indoor exhibition features intricate model railway layouts with moving trains, perfect for train enthusiasts of all ages. Kids can also enjoy the outdoor play area and ride-on miniature railway (seasonal). The gardens are well-maintained and offer scenic views of the coast. Facilities include a café and gift shop. Practical tip: check opening times as they vary seasonally; the indoor railway is covered, making it a good option for rainy days. - Highlights: model railway displays, ride-on miniature railway, play area, gardens. - Suggested ages: 3-12 years, but enjoyable for all. - Facilities: café, toilets, gift shop, parking.

Exmouth Beach is a vast, sandy beach located on the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It offers safe swimming, rock pools to explore, and stunning views of the bay. Families will appreciate the dedicated children's play area, the nearby park with a putting green and tennis courts, and the mile-long promenade perfect for pushchairs and bikes. - Lifeguards are on duty during summer months (May-September) - Toilet and changing facilities are available near the seafront - Several cafes, ice cream stalls, and fish and chip shops line the promenade - The beach is mostly sand, ideal for sandcastles, with a gentle slope into the sea - Dog restrictions apply in certain areas from Easter to October Practical tips: Parking can be busy in summer; arrive before 10am for the best spots. Public toilets include baby-changing facilities. A land train runs along the seafront from May to September, a hit with younger children.

Crealy Theme Park & Resort is a family-friendly attraction in Exeter, Devon, offering over 60 rides and attractions set in 100 acres of parkland. The park is divided into areas like Adventure Zone, Magic Meadow, and Splash Zone (water play). Highlights include the Twister roller coaster, Tidal Wave, and the Safari Express train. There are also indoor soft play areas and animal encounters with goats, pigs, and donkeys. - Suitable for toddlers to teens, with dedicated areas for under-5s including Tiny Tots rides and the Squirrel’s Nest indoor play. - Facilities include picnic areas, gift shops, and multiple catering outlets (pizza, burgers, ice cream). The park is accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs. On-site accommodation is available in lodges and glamping pods. - Practical tips: Book online in advance for best prices. Arrive early to avoid queues. Check weather for water play (Splash Zone operates seasonally). Parking is free.