Sidmouth Airshow 2026: Regatta, Red Arrows, Display Times, Best Viewing Spots & Visitor Guide

The Sidmouth Airshow 2026 takes place on Friday 28 August 2026, opening the annual Sidmouth Regatta weekend with an afternoon of spectacular flying displays over the Jurassic Coast.

Headlined by the RAF Red Arrows, the display also features the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Douglas Dakota and the Navy Wings Fairey Swordfish, making it one of the highlights of the August Bank Holiday weekend in Devon.

This independent guide covers the Sidmouth Airshow 2026 flying programme, aircraft line-up, best places to watch, parking, travel information, accommodation and everything you need to plan your visit. Updated regularly as new information is announced.

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When is the Sidmouth Airshow 2026?

The Sidmouth Regatta Airshow takes place on Friday 28 August 2026, opening the annual Sidmouth Regatta weekend.

The air display forms part of three days of entertainment, including sailing races, family activities, raft races and a spectacular fireworks display later in the weekend.

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What is the Sidmouth Regatta Airshow?

The Sidmouth Regatta Airshow is one of East Devon’s most popular annual events, attracting thousands of visitors to the town each August Bank Holiday.

Unlike larger commercial airshows, Sidmouth combines military flying displays with a traditional seaside regatta, creating a unique family atmosphere against the backdrop of the Jurassic Coast.

The event is organised by Sidmouth Town Council and remains free to attend, thanks to sponsorship, fundraising and public donations. Volunteers carry out bucket and contactless collections throughout the day to help secure the future of this much-loved annual event, and visitors are encouraged to support it if they can.

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Sidmouth Airshow 2026 Aircraft Line-up

The 2026 Sidmouth Regatta Airshow promises an impressive afternoon of aerial entertainment over the Jurassic Coast, featuring a mix of military, historic, and civilian display aircraft.

The confirmed Sidmouth Airshow 2026 aircraft line-up includes:

RAF Red Arrows

The RAF Red Arrows are the Royal Air Force’s world-famous aerobatic display team and remain one of the biggest attractions at any UK airshow. During the 2026 display season, the team is performing at most events with seven Hawk T1 jets in close formation rather than the traditional nine, while continuing to deliver the precision flying and spectacular red, white and blue smoke displays for which it is renowned. The change has been made to reduce wear on the ageing Hawk T1 fleet and its out-of-production engines, helping to keep the aircraft in service until their planned retirement in 2030.

Battle of Britain Memorial Flight C-47 Dakota

The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight’s Douglas C-47 Dakota is one of the most historic aircraft still flying in the UK. Built during the Second World War, it played a vital role in the D-Day landings and continues to honour the service and sacrifice of those who served during the conflict.

Navy Wings Fairey Swordfish

The Fairey Swordfish is one of the rarest flying aircraft in Britain and represents the Fleet Air Arm of the Second World War. Despite its slow speed and fabric-covered wings, it became famous for its remarkable combat record, including the attack on the Italian fleet at Taranto.

Aerosuperbatics Wing Walkers Duo

The Aerosuperbatics Wing Walkers combine precision flying with breathtaking wing walking displays as performers stand on the upper wings of two Boeing Stearman biplanes during loops, rolls and close formation manoeuvres. It remains one of the most popular civilian displays on the UK airshow circuit.

Rich Goodwin Jet Pitts Muscle Plane

Rich Goodwin’s Jet Pitts Muscle Plane is one of the most powerful and exciting aerobatic aircraft in Britain, combining a highly modified Pitts Special with jet-assisted performance. Its dramatic climbs, tumbles, torque rolls and low-level passes make it a crowd favourite at airshows across the country.

The Stampe Display Team

The Stampe Display Team flies beautifully restored Stampe SV.4 biplanes dating from the 1930s, recreating the golden age of aviation with graceful formation flying and classic aerobatics. Their elegant display provides a striking contrast to the high-speed modern aircraft appearing elsewhere in the programme.

Sidmouth Independent Lifeboat and Exmouth RNLI Lifeboat Display

The Sidmouth Independent Lifeboat and Exmouth RNLI Lifeboat Display showcases the vital work carried out by volunteer lifeboat crews along the East Devon coast. Demonstrations typically highlight search-and-rescue techniques, seamanship skills, and the close partnership between the RNLI and other emergency services.

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Sidmouth Airshow 2026 Flying Times

The full minute-by-minute flying schedule is usually published in the weeks leading up to the event, and we will update this guide as soon as it is released.

Flying displays are currently expected to begin from approximately 4 pm, although the exact timings for each aircraft have yet to be confirmed. The Red Arrows are expected to perform towards the end of the flying programme, although timings have yet to be confirmed.

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Best Places to Watch the Sidmouth Regatta and Airshow

The display line is usually parallel to the coastline, so most aircraft perform left to right across Lyme Bay. The Red Arrows traditionally make their arrival and departure at right angles to the beach, so if the weather is kind, keep an eye behind you for your first glimpse of the team approaching Sidmouth just before the display begins.

Sidmouth Esplanade

The main viewing area has uninterrupted views across Lyme Bay.

Sidmouth Beach

Excellent central viewing close to cafés, shops and facilities.

Peak Hill

Higher viewpoints offering dramatic photography opportunities overlooking the display area.

Jacob’s Ladder Beach

Usually quieter than the main seafront while still offering excellent views.

Connaught Gardens

A beautiful elevated location with panoramic views across Sidmouth and the display line.

Salcombe Hill

Viewed from the South West Coast Path below Salcombe Hill, overlooking the town.

By early afternoon, the Esplanade becomes extremely busy, so arriving before 2 pm is usually the best choice for viewing locations.

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Best Photography Locations

Peak Hill offers spectacular elevated views across Lyme Bay, while Jacob’s Ladder and the western end of the Esplanade are excellent for photographing the Red Arrows against the cliffs. Salcombe Hill offers wider landscape shots that combine the aircraft with the Jurassic Coast.

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Watch from the Water

For one of the most memorable ways to experience the Sidmouth Airshow, Stuart Line Cruises operates a special airshow sailing from Exmouth Marina, giving passengers the opportunity to watch the displays from Lyme Bay with uninterrupted views of the action.

After cruising along the spectacular Jurassic Coast, the vessel anchors just offshore from Sidmouth Beach, placing passengers directly beneath the display area. Away from the busy Esplanade and crowded beaches, it offers a unique perspective of the aerial displays, with the RAF Red Arrows and other participating aircraft performing overhead against the backdrop of the Devon coastline.

The cruise lasts around 5 hours 15 minutes, with refreshments, snacks and a fully licensed bar available on board throughout the trip. Tickets for 2026 start from £25 per person, although places are limited and advance booking is recommended.

As with the airshow itself, sailing times may change once the final flying programme is confirmed, and weather and sea conditions can occasionally affect the cruise’s operation. The sailing will normally proceed even if individual aircraft are unable to display due to operational reasons or weather restrictions.

For aviation enthusiasts and photographers, watching the Sidmouth Airshow from the sea provides one of the best and most unusual viewing experiences available during the Regatta weekend.

🚤 For further information, sailing times and online booking, visit the Stuart Line Cruises Sidmouth Airshow page.

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Sidmouth Regatta Weekend

The Sidmouth Regatta Airshow is the centrepiece of a packed August Bank Holiday weekend, but it is only one part of the wider Sidmouth Regatta, which has been entertaining residents and visitors for generations.

Following the spectacular flying displays on Friday 28 August 2026, the celebrations continue throughout the weekend with a varied programme of traditional seaside entertainment, sporting events and family activities taking place around the Esplanade, The Ham and Sidmouth seafront.

Visitors can enjoy sailing races on Lyme Bay, the ever-popular Rotary Club Raft Race, the traditional Three-Legged Race, children’s entertainment, live music and a wide range of community events that capture the unique atmosphere of this long-established Devon regatta. Food stalls, bars and refreshments are also expected to be available at The Ham, providing a lively hub throughout the weekend.

The festivities culminate on Saturday evening with the Grand Fireworks Display, when thousands gather along the seafront to watch the night sky above the bay light up in a spectacular finale.

Combining world-class aerial displays with traditional seaside entertainment and maritime events, the Sidmouth Regatta Weekend remains one of East Devon’s biggest annual celebrations and a highlight of the August Bank Holiday calendar.

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Getting to Sidmouth Airshow

By Car

Sidmouth is easily reached from across the South West and beyond. The town lies approximately 10 miles from Junction 30 of the M5 via the A3052 and around 9 miles from Honiton via the A375.

Typical journey times are:

• Exeter: around 40 minutes
• Bristol: around 2 hours
• Birmingham: around 3 hours
• London: around 3½ to 4 hours

For satellite navigation, the Sidmouth Information Centre postcode is EX10 8XR.

Heavy traffic and delays are common on the approach roads before the flying displays begin, while queues should also be expected when leaving Sidmouth after the airshow and evening fireworks. Where possible, visitors are encouraged to car share or use public transport to help reduce congestion.

Where Can I Park for the Sidmouth Airshow and Regatta?

Parking for the Sidmouth Airshow and Regatta is available at a number of East Devon District Council car parks across the town, with additional temporary parking areas and local sports clubs often opening their grounds to accommodate the large number of visitors expected over the August Bank Holiday weekend.

As you approach Sidmouth, follow the official event parking signs, which will direct you to available parking areas. The town becomes extremely busy during the Airshow and Regatta, so it is advisable to arrive early and allow extra time for your journey.

Once parked, most of the town centre, the Esplanade, and the main viewing areas can be reached on foot.

Getting to Sidmouth Airshow and Regatta by Bus

Sidmouth is well served by Stagecoach South West bus services, making it one of the easiest ways to visit the Airshow and Regatta without the hassle of parking.

• Route 9 operates between Exeter, Sidmouth and Honiton, with buses running up to every 30 minutes during the daytime when combined with Route 9A.
• Route 9A links Exeter, Sidmouth, Beer and Seaton along the Jurassic Coast, providing additional services and one of Devon’s most scenic bus journeys.
• Route 157 connects Exmouth, Budleigh Salterton and Sidmouth, generally operating hourly throughout the day via Otterton and Newton Poppleford.

Together, these routes provide convenient public transport links from Exeter, Honiton, Exmouth, Budleigh Salterton, Beer and Seaton, with buses stopping close to the town centre and seafront. During the busy August Bank Holiday weekend, additional journeys or duplicate buses may operate to help meet demand, though these are confirmed closer to the event.

We’re big fans of the Stagecoach South West app, which allows you to purchase tickets, check live departure times and track your bus in real time. Timetables and service updates are also available on the Stagecoach South West website.

Travelling by bus is one of the easiest ways to reach the Sidmouth Airshow, avoiding traffic queues and parking difficulties. From Sidmouth Triangle and All Saints Church bus stops, the Esplanade and main viewing areas are only a short walk away.

Getting to Sidmouth by Train

Sidmouth no longer has its own railway station, so the easiest way to reach the Airshow by rail is to travel to Honiton, which is served by South Western Railway services from London Waterloo, Basingstoke, Salisbury, Yeovil Junction and Exeter St Davids.

From Honiton Railway Station, the Stagecoach South West Route 9 bus departs from the station forecourt and provides a direct connection to Sidmouth, with the journey taking around 25-35 minutes. Buses generally run hourly throughout the day, making the transfer straightforward and convenient.

Alternatively, visitors can travel by train to Exmouth before catching the Stagecoach 157 bus via Budleigh Salterton to Sidmouth, although this takes longer than travelling via Honiton. Axminster is another option, but reaching Sidmouth from there usually requires a bus change in Seaton, making it less convenient.

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Getting to the Sidmouth Airshow on Foot

If you enjoy walking, reaching the Sidmouth Airshow on foot can become part of the day’s adventure. Some of East Devon’s finest scenery surrounds the town, and several excellent walking routes lead directly to the seafront and main viewing areas.

Our favourite approach is from Budleigh Salterton, following the South West Coast Path for around 6½ miles (10.5 km). Allow 3 to 3½ hours for the walk, which passes dramatic red-sandstone cliffs, the Jurassic Coast, and Ladram Bay, making it one of the most beautiful coastal walks in Devon. Parking is generally easier in Budleigh Salterton than in Sidmouth, making this an excellent option for Airshow day.

For those looking for an easier walk, Sidford provides another excellent starting point. From the village, the Byes follows the River Sid through attractive parkland and meadows for approximately 1½ miles (2.4 km) into Sidmouth, taking around 30 to 40 minutes. The route is almost entirely level, traffic-free and suitable for most abilities, emerging just a short walk from the Esplanade.

Another pleasant option is to start in Otterton and walk around 3½ miles (5.5 km) to Sidmouth via quiet country lanes and footpaths in about 1½ hours.

More experienced walkers may prefer to arrive via the South West Coast Path from Beer, a spectacular but more demanding 8-mile (13 km) route that takes around 4 hours and involves several steep climbs. A shorter alternative is to begin from Branscombe or the National Trust car parks on Salcombe Hill, both of which offer excellent coastal views before descending into Sidmouth.

If we were choosing, we’d probably opt for Sidford or Budleigh Salterton. Both provide enjoyable walks into the town, parking is generally easier than in Sidmouth itself, and arriving on foot adds an extra sense of occasion before the Red Arrows appear overhead.

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By Bike

Cycling is becoming increasingly popular, particularly among visitors staying elsewhere in East Devon. Sidmouth can be reached via a network of quiet lanes and cycle routes, and many festivalgoers combine the event with a cycling holiday exploring the Jurassic Coast, the Byes, Budleigh Salterton, Exmouth and the wider East Devon countryside.

For those staying locally, travelling by bike can often be one of the easiest ways to avoid festival traffic and parking pressures.

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Where to Stay for the Sidmouth Airshow and Regatta

Accommodation is one of the first things to sell out for the Sidmouth Airshow and Regatta, with hotels, guesthouses, holiday cottages and holiday parks across Sidmouth often fully booked well before the August Bank Holiday weekend. Properties close to the Esplanade, The Ham and the town centre are particularly popular thanks to their easy access to the main viewing areas.

For the most convenient stay, look for accommodation within walking distance of the seafront. Popular options include The Victoria Hotel, The Bedford Hotel, Dukes, The Elizabeth Hotel, The Kingswood, Royal York & Faulkner Hotel, Royal Glen Hotel, Woodlands Hotel and Harbour Hotel Sidmouth, all of which provide easy access to the Airshow and Regatta festivities.

Visitors seeking a quieter base may prefer guesthouses such as Willow Bridge B&B, Berwick House or The Salty Monk at nearby Sidford. Self-catering accommodation is also popular, with options including Atlantic Apartment, Seascape Apartments and Bulverton House.

If accommodation in Sidmouth is already limited, nearby towns such as Budleigh Salterton, Exmouth, Beer, Branscombe, Seaton, Honiton and Axminster offer excellent alternatives while remaining within easy reach of the airshow and regatta by car or public transport.

Popular camping and caravanning options include Salcombe Regis Caravan & Camping Park, Oakdown Holiday Park near Branscombe and Branscombe Campsite further inland. Additional touring and camping sites can be found around Exmouth, Budleigh Salterton, Beer, Branscombe, Honiton and Axminster.

Wherever you choose to stay, booking as early as possible is strongly recommended, as demand for accommodation across East Devon is exceptionally high during the August Bank Holiday weekend.

If you are still looking for somewhere to stay, Booking.com and Trip.com offer a wide choice of hotels, guesthouses, holiday parks and self-catering accommodation across Sidmouth and East Devon. TripAdvisor can also be useful for comparing recent reviews before booking. We particularly like Booking.com, as many properties offer free cancellation and pay-at-property options, providing extra flexibility if your travel plans change.

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Things to Do While Visiting Sidmouth Regatta and Airshow

One of the advantages of attending Sidmouth Regatta is that it works perfectly as part of a longer East Devon holiday. Many visitors spend extra time exploring the Jurassic Coast, nearby beaches and some of Devon’s most attractive seaside towns before or after the festival.

Sidmouth itself is worth exploring beyond the festival venues. Highlights include Connaught Gardens, Jacob’s Ladder Beach, The Byes riverside walk, the South West Coast Path and the town’s distinctive Regency architecture. For more ideas, see our guide to Things to Do in Sidmouth.

The surrounding coastline is home to some of the finest beaches in Devon. Popular spots include Exmouth Beach, Budleigh Salterton, Beer Beach, Branscombe, Weston Mouth and Seaton Beach. See our guide to East Devon Beaches for more inspiration.

Budleigh Salterton, just west of Sidmouth, offers a quieter seaside location with a pebble beach, an attractive high street and the nearby River Otter Estuary. Read our guide to Things to Do in Budleigh Salterton.

To the east, Beer and Branscombe offer a different side of the Jurassic Coast, combining a fishing heritage, coastal walks, historic cottages, and spectacular scenery. See our guide to Things to Do in Beer and Branscombe.

Nearby Seaton is another excellent day trip, with attractions including Seaton Wetlands, the Seaton Tramway and coastal walks towards Beer and Lyme Regis. For more information, see our guide to Things to Do in Seaton.

If you are planning a longer stay, our Things to Do in East Devon guide highlights more beaches, walks, wildlife reserves, market towns and attractions across this beautiful part of Devon.

Planning a longer stay? Read our complete guide to Things to Do in Sidmouth for beaches, walks, attractions, restaurants and visitor information beyond the Airshow weekend.

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What’s On in Sidmouth in 2026?

Sidmouth Folk Festival is the town’s biggest annual event, but it is only one part of a packed events calendar. Throughout the year, Sidmouth hosts festivals, sporting events and cultural celebrations that help make it one of Devon’s most popular seaside destinations.

The season begins in May with Sidmouth Sea Fest, celebrating marine life, local food, sustainability and live music in Connaught Gardens. Later in the month, the Sidmouth Jazz & Blues Festival brings internationally known musicians and emerging artists to venues across the town.

June sees the Sidmouth Secluded Gardens event, opening some of Sidmouth’s most attractive private and public gardens to visitors. In July, SidyFest adds another weekend of live music before the arrival of Sidmouth Folk Festival at the end of the month.

After Folk Festival week, the focus shifts to the Sidmouth Regatta and Airshow, which takes place from Friday 28 to Sunday 30 August 2026. The event combines watersports, family entertainment and air displays over Lyme Bay, including a planned appearance by the Red Arrows.

September brings the Sidmouth and East Devon Walking Festival, offering guided and self-guided walks across the Jurassic Coast and surrounding countryside. Later in the year, the Sidmouth Science Festival helps extend the events season into autumn with talks, exhibitions and family activities.

If you are planning a visit, see our What’s On in South West England guide for more festivals, airshows, food events, music festivals and seasonal celebrations across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset. It is updated throughout the year and can help you discover other events taking place during your stay.

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Sidmouth Airshow 2026 and Regatta Weather Forecast

The weather can significantly affect the Sidmouth Airshow and Regatta, particularly for visitors watching the flying displays from the beach, the Esplanade, or the surrounding cliffs.

It is currently too early to provide a meaningful forecast for Friday, 28 August 2026, but we will update this section with the latest weather information as the event approaches.

Late August in East Devon often brings warm summer temperatures and good visibility, making it an ideal time for an air display. However, conditions on the Jurassic Coast can change quickly, with sea breezes developing during the afternoon and occasional showers possible even on otherwise sunny days.

Typical Late August Weather in Sidmouth

• Temperature: Around 18°C to 23°C
• Conditions: Often dry with sunny intervals
• Rainfall: Occasional showers remain possible
• Sea breeze: Common during the afternoon along the seafront
• Evenings: Can become noticeably cooler after sunset

If you’re planning to spend several hours watching the displays, we recommend bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and plenty of water, together with a light waterproof jacket in case conditions change. Comfortable footwear is also advisable if you plan to explore the town or watch from the surrounding coastal viewpoints.

This section will be updated with the latest forecast from the Met Office and other weather providers in the days leading up to the Sidmouth Airshow.

For the latest updates, check:
BBC Weather Sidmouth forecast
Met Office Sidmouth forecast

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Sidmouth Airshow 2026 FAQs

When is the Sidmouth Airshow 2026?

The Sidmouth Airshow 2026 takes place on Friday 28 August 2026, opening the wider Sidmouth Regatta weekend.

Is Sidmouth Airshow free?

Yes. The Sidmouth Airshow is free to attend, although donations are encouraged to help support the future of the event.

What time does Sidmouth Airshow start?

Flying displays are currently expected to begin from approximately 4pm, although the full timetable will be confirmed closer to the event.

Are the Red Arrows displaying at Sidmouth Airshow 2026?

Yes. The RAF Red Arrows are expected to headline the Sidmouth Airshow 2026, subject to weather, aircraft availability and operational requirements.

Where is the best place to watch Sidmouth Airshow?

The Esplanade and Sidmouth Beach offer the most central views, while Peak Hill, Jacob’s Ladder Beach, Connaught Gardens and Salcombe Hill provide excellent alternative viewpoints.

Where can I park for Sidmouth Airshow and Regatta?

Parking is available in East Devon District Council car parks, with additional temporary parking areas often opened for the event. Visitors should follow official parking signs when entering Sidmouth and arrive early.

Can I get to Sidmouth Airshow by public transport?

Yes. Stagecoach South West bus routes 9, 9A and 157 connect Sidmouth with Exeter, Honiton, Seaton, Beer, Exmouth and Budleigh Salterton. Honiton is the nearest railway station for most visitors travelling by train.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Flying displays can be delayed, changed or cancelled if weather conditions affect safety. Visitors should check the official Sidmouth Regatta and Airshow updates before travelling.

Final Tips

Arrive early, bring sunscreen, and expect large crowds along the Esplanade. Higher viewpoints, such as Peak Hill, can provide excellent photography opportunities and a little more space away from the busiest parts of the seafront.

Whether you’re visiting for the Red Arrows, the Regatta or simply to enjoy one of Devon’s best seaside events, the Sidmouth Airshow 2026 promises an unforgettable day on the Jurassic Coast.

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Last updated: June 2026. Although we make every effort to keep this guide up to date, display times, aircraft line-ups, Regatta events, parking arrangements and travel information may change at short notice. Flying displays are always subject to weather conditions, operational requirements and aircraft availability. We recommend checking the official Sidmouth Regatta and Airshow website before travelling for the latest information and announcements.

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Helpful Links for the Sidmouth Regatta and Airshow 2026

These trusted resources can help you plan and book your trip, from transport and accommodation to weather and local information.

• Booking.com – for most accommodation needs. Look out for options that include free cancellation.
• Easy Tide – Free UK tidal prediction service, providing tidal data and tide times for the current day and 6 days into the future.
• Expedia – good for flights and packages.
• Get Your Guide – find and book things to see. Includes unusual things to do.
• Hostelworld – Hostel-focused booking platform that fosters backpack connections.
• MetOffice – Weather forecasts from the UK official meteorological office.
• National Express – UK-based coach operator providing long-distance bus services
• Omio – Book travel tickets by comparing trains, buses and planes in one search.
• Rental Cars– to search out and book hire cars.
• Rome2Rio – Great for comparing local transport options (and for locating bus stops).
• Ticketmaster – What’s On – Major Events – Venues – Bookings
• Trainline.com – our go-to online platform for booking train and bus tickets, offering route planning, price comparisons, seat reservations, and ticket sales.
• Traffic England – for live traffic updates on major roads.
• Traveline SW – Comprehensive public transport information from A to B by bus, coach, train, ferry in South West England and Great Britain.
• TripAdvisor – for reviews of… pretty much everything. Our go-to before booking anything.
• Vrbo – Great for self-catering and vacation holiday home rentals.

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