
The Sidmouth Airshow 2026 takes place on Friday 28 August 2026 and opens the annual Sidmouth Regatta, which continues across the Bank Holiday weekend.
The updated programme features the Stampe Display Team, a three-aircraft Navy Wings formation, Aerosuperbatics Wing Walkers and Rich Goodwin’s Jet Pitts, followed by three RAF Red Arrows flypasts at 6.40 pm. Sidmouth Town Council has announced that the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Dakota has been withdrawn because it is unavailable.
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.
Sidmouth Airshow 2026 at a Glance
Important update: 28 August 2026
The planned full RAF Red Arrows aerobatic display has been replaced by three flypasts at 6.40 pm.
Read the full Red Arrows update.
Parking update: 28 August 2026 Sidmouth Rugby Club is no longer available for airshow parking because of the possibility of rain showers.
🎆 Sidmouth Regatta continues this weekend
The wider Sidmouth Regatta continues on Saturday and Sunday, with watersports, family events, live music and fireworks planned for 9.15 pm on Saturday.
Date: Friday 28 August 2026
Location: Sidmouth Seafront
Entry: Free, with donations encouraged
Activities start: 3 pm with Road Arrows bicycle displays at Bedford Lawn and Port Royal
Water displays: 4 pm with Sidmouth and Exmouth lifeboats and Sidmouth Lifeguards
Flying displays start: 4.50 pm with the Stampe Display Team
Red Arrows update: Three flypasts are scheduled for 6.40 pm, replacing the previously planned full aerobatic display.
Updated programme: Road Arrows bicycle displays, Sidmouth and Exmouth lifeboats, Sidmouth Lifeguards, Stampe Display Team, Navy Wings Swordfish, Chipmunk and Bulldog, Aerosuperbatics Wing Walkers, Rich Goodwin Jet Pitts and three RAF Red Arrows flypasts.
Navy Wings display: Formation flight by the Swordfish, Chipmunk and Bulldog from 5.15 pm, followed by a Chipmunk and Bulldog tail chase and individual Chipmunk and Swordfish displays.
Latest aircraft update: The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Dakota has been withdrawn because the aircraft is unavailable.
Food and drink: Food court and Branscombe Brewery bar at The Ham
Also available: Red Arrows merchandise and a Red Arrows flight simulator
Best viewing: The Esplanade, Sidmouth Beach, Jacob’s Ladder Beach and the surrounding coastal viewpoints
Part of: Sidmouth Regatta 2026 weekend, with Saturday events and fireworks at 9.15 pm
📢 Live airshow day updates
For any last-minute official changes to the programme, timings or visitor information we recommend checking Sidmouth Town Council’s Facebook page.
Please note: Timings and aircraft appearances remain subject to weather, serviceability and operational requirements. Further changes may be announced at short notice. A temporary water safety exclusion zone will operate offshore during the airshow.
Planning your visit? Continue to the full flying timetable, detailed viewing guide, latest weather forecast, parking and travel advice or things to do in and around Sidmouth.
Disclosure: Some of the outbound links on this page are affiliate links to sites that we use and would genuinely recommend. Using them doesn’t cost you extra, but it does help support this free guide. We also provide links to other sites that we believe may be helpful to you.
- Sidmouth Airshow 2026 at a Glance
- Sidmouth Airshow Map
- When is the Sidmouth Airshow 2026?
- What is the Sidmouth Regatta Airshow?
- Sidmouth Airshow 2026 Aircraft Line-up
- Sidmouth Airshow 2026 Flying Times
- Sidmouth Red Arrows Display Replaced by Three Flypasts
- Best Places to Watch the Sidmouth Regatta and Airshow
- Best Photography Locations
- Watch Sidmouth Airshow from the Water
- Sidmouth Regatta Weekend 2026
- Getting to Sidmouth Airshow
- Sidmouth Airshow Road Closures
- Where to Stay for the Sidmouth Airshow and Regatta
- Things to Do While Visiting Sidmouth Regatta and Airshow
- What's On in Sidmouth in 2026?
- Sidmouth Airshow 2026 and Regatta Weather Forecast
- Sidmouth Airshow 2026 FAQs
- Final Tips
- Helpful Links for the Sidmouth Regatta and Airshow 2026
Sidmouth Airshow Map
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 opens a Bank Holiday weekend of entertainment, including sailing and gig races, family activities, the raft race, the Three-Legged Race and a fireworks display at 9.15 pm on Saturday evening.
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.
Sidmouth Town Council organises the event, which 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.
Supporters can also contribute by purchasing tickets for the Sidmouth Regatta Airshow Grand Draw. Tickets are available from Sidmouth Tourist Information Centre and Sidmouth Cricket Club, and will also be sold on Airshow day.
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 provisional Sidmouth Airshow 2026 aircraft line-up includes:
RAF Red Arrows Flypasts
The RAF Red Arrows are the Royal Air Force’s world-famous aerobatic display team. Their planned full display at Sidmouth Airshow 2026 has been replaced by three flypasts, scheduled for 6.40 pm on Friday 28 August.
Sidmouth Town Council says the change is due to forecast weather and operational constraints affecting which airfields the team can use. Operating from farther away limits the time the aircraft can spend over Sidmouth.
The flypasts remain subject to weather, aircraft serviceability and operational requirements and may change at short notice.
Navy Wings Swordfish, Chipmunk and Bulldog
The updated Navy Wings display begins with the Fairey Swordfish, de Havilland Chipmunk and Scottish Aviation Bulldog flying together in formation. The Chipmunk and Bulldog will then perform a tail chase, followed by individual displays from the Chipmunk and Swordfish.
The formation brings together three aircraft associated with different periods of British military aviation. The Swordfish represents the Fleet Air Arm of the Second World War, while the Chipmunk and Bulldog became familiar postwar training aircraft.
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, a classic training aircraft design developed during 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.
Sidmouth Airshow 2026 Flying Times
Sidmouth Town Council has announced an updated programme for the Sidmouth Regatta Airshow on Friday 28 August 2026:
- 3 pm: Road Arrows at Bedford Lawn
- Road Arrows then perform a second display at Port Royal
- 4 pm: Sidmouth and Exmouth lifeboats, with Sidmouth Lifeguards
- 4.50 pm: Stampe Display Team
- 5.15 pm: Navy Wings formation with the Swordfish, Chipmunk and Bulldog
- Navy Wings Chipmunk and Bulldog tail chase
- Navy Wings Chipmunk display
- Navy Wings Swordfish display
- 6 pm: Aerosuperbatics Wing Walkers
- 6.20 pm: Rich Goodwin Jet Pitts Muscle Plane
- 6.40 pm: Three RAF Red Arrows flypasts
- 7.30 pm: Regatta Airshow Grand Draw
The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Dakota has been withdrawn because the 82-year-old aircraft is unavailable. Its former 5.40 pm slot has been replaced by an expanded Navy Wings sequence featuring the Swordfish, Chipmunk and Bulldog.
See the official Sidmouth Regatta Airshow programme for updates. All timings remain subject to final confirmation, weather and operational requirements.
Important update: 27 August 2026
Sidmouth Red Arrows Display Replaced by Three Flypasts
The planned full RAF Red Arrows aerobatic display at Sidmouth Airshow has been replaced by three flypasts at 6.40 pm on Friday 28 August 2026.
Sidmouth Town Council says the change is due to the forecast weather and operational constraints affecting which airfields the Red Arrows can use. The team will be operating from farther away than originally planned, reducing the time the aircraft can spend over Sidmouth.
Sidmouth date: Friday 28 August 2026
Scheduled time: 6.40 pm
Revised appearance: Three Red Arrows flypasts rather than a full aerobatic display
The separately planned Red Arrows flypast over Lyme Regis has also changed. It is now scheduled for 6.30 pm on Friday 28 August, shortly before the Sidmouth flypasts. It was previously due to take place at 12.33 pm on Saturday 29 August but has been brought forward because of the poor Saturday weather forecast.
This announcement concerns the Red Arrows element of the programme. Visitors should continue to check for any further changes to the remaining Sidmouth Airshow timetable.
Please note: All flying remains subject to weather, aircraft serviceability and operational requirements. Timings and appearances may change at short notice.
Read the official Sidmouth update Check Sidmouth Town Council on Facebook Check Lyme Regis Town Council on Facebook
Best Places to Watch the Sidmouth Regatta and Airshow

The display takes place over Lyme Bay, parallel to the Sidmouth seafront. Aircraft can enter the display area from different directions, so listen for the commentary and watch across the wider bay as each 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.
Coastal paths and clifftop viewpoints may become busy, and some sections have steep drops or uneven ground. Keep well back from cliff edges and follow any temporary restrictions or safety instructions.
By early afternoon, the Esplanade becomes extremely busy, so arriving before 2 pm is usually the best choice for viewing locations.
Have time before the Sidmouth Airshow flying programme begins?
See our guide to things to do in Sidmouth, including the seafront,
Connaught Gardens and walks along the Jurassic Coast.
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.
Watch Sidmouth Airshow 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, allowing passengers to watch the displays from Lyme Bay with uninterrupted views of the action.
After cruising along the Jurassic Coast, the vessel takes up a position offshore in front of Sidmouth, providing an unobstructed view of the display area. Away from the busy Esplanade and crowded beaches, it offers a unique perspective on the aerial displays, with participating aircraft overhead against the backdrop of the Devon coastline, and the RAF Red Arrows scheduled to make three flypasts at 6.40 pm.
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.
Cruise departure and return times should be checked directly with Stuart Line Cruises, as the published airshow timetable remains provisional. 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 further information, sailing times and online booking, visit the Stuart Line Cruises Sidmouth Airshow page.
Important for boat owners and paddlers: A temporary Air Display Water Safety Zone will operate offshore from 3.30 pm until the display finishes at approximately 7.05 pm. Boats, jet skis, kayaks and paddleboards must remain outside the buoyed exclusion area and follow instructions from Sidmouth Lifeboat and the event safety vessels. The organisers are encouraging spectators to watch from shore. They have also advised that young children and pets may require suitable protection from loud aircraft and jet noise.
Sidmouth Regatta Weekend 2026

The Sidmouth Regatta Airshow opens three days of events over the August Bank Holiday weekend and forms the centrepiece of the wider Sidmouth Regatta.
Throughout Friday and Saturday, a food court showcasing local producers and a bar operated by Branscombe Brewery will be open at The Ham. Visitors will also be able to buy Red Arrows merchandise and experience a Red Arrows flight simulator.
Saturday 29 August 2026
Saturday brings a full programme of watersports, races, family entertainment, live music and fireworks:
- 9.30 am to 11 am: Sidmouth Surf Lifesaving
- 10.30 am: Sailing races
- 11 am to 4 pm: Family Fun Treasure Hunt
- 12.45 pm: Three-Legged Race
- 3 pm: Tug of War on The Ham
- 5.30 pm: Raft Race fancy dress judging
- 6 pm: Rotary Raft Race
- 7 pm: Live music from the Blue Honey Combo on The Ham
- 9.15 pm: Spectacular Firework Display
Food and drink will be available on The Ham throughout the day, while Saturday is also Sidmouth Lifeboat Flag Day.
Sunday 30 August 2026
The final day has a nautical theme, beginning with the Sidmouth Gig Club Regatta at 10am. Sailing events follow from 11am, accompanied by sea shanty singers and food and drink at the Watersports Hub.
Bringing together aviation, sailing, lifesaving, traditional races and seaside entertainment, Sidmouth Regatta remains one of East Devon’s major annual celebrations. Check the official Sidmouth Regatta programme for any last-minute changes.
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?
Additional Airshow parking will be available on Friday 28 August at:
• Sidmouth Cricket Club: £12 from 10 am
• Knowle Arena: £10 from midday
East Devon District Council car parks will also be available. Sidmouth is expected to be extremely busy during the Airshow and Regatta, so arrive early and allow extra time for your journey. Once parked, the town centre, Esplanade and main viewing areas are all within walking distance.
Sidmouth Airshow Road Closures
Port Royal will be closed from midday on Friday 28 August until 9 pm on Monday 31 August.
The Esplanade and Peak Hill will be closed from midday until 9 pm on Friday for the airshow, with diversions in place.
The Esplanade between Ham Lane and Fore Street will also close from 8.45 pm until 9.45 pm on Saturday for the fireworks.
Temporary parking restrictions will apply on several nearby roads on Friday, including Manor Road, parts of Station Road, All Saints Road, Radway, Vicarage Road, Temple Street, Arcot Road, The Triangle and Redwood Road.
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. Services are likely to be busy, particularly after the Red Arrows flypasts, so check the Stagecoach app for live departures and any event-related changes before travelling.
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 getting to Sidmouth from there usually requires a bus change in Seaton, which makes it less convenient.
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 Devon’s most beautiful coastal walks. Parking is 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 2 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.
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.
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, choose accommodation within walking distance of the seafront. Options include The Victoria Hotel, The Bedford Hotel, Dukes, Royal Glen Hotel and Harbour Hotel Sidmouth.

For a quieter base, consider The Salty Monk in Sidford or self-catering accommodation such as Bulverton House.
If Sidmouth is fully booked, Budleigh Salterton, Exmouth, Beer, Branscombe, Seaton and Honiton offer useful alternatives. Check transport arrangements if attending without a car.
Camping options include Salcombe Regis Caravan & Camping Park, Oakdown Holiday Park and Branscombe Campsite.
Demand is high across East Devon during the August Bank Holiday weekend, so book early. Booking.com and TripAdvisor provide a wider selection, with flexible cancellation available at some properties.
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.
Making a day of it?
Discover more of Sidmouth with our guide to things to do in Sidmouth, or explore Beer and Branscombe further along the East Devon coast.
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, attention turns to the Sidmouth Regatta Airshow on Friday 28 August, followed by Regatta events across the Bank Holiday weekend. The programme combines watersports, family entertainment and air displays over Lyme Bay, with three Red Arrows flypasts scheduled for 6.40 pm on Friday.
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.
Yes. I’d keep the destination as your broader South West page, but work the “what’s on in Devon this weekend” keyphrase naturally into the copy:
If you are looking for what’s on in Devon this weekend, our regularly updated What’s On in South West England guide includes festivals, airshows, food events, live music, family days out and seasonal events across Devon, alongside events in Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset.
Sidmouth Airshow 2026 and Regatta Weather Forecast
The Sidmouth Regatta continues today, Saturday 29 August, with watersports, family events, live music and the firework display scheduled for 9.15 pm tonight.
The latest Met Office forecast suggests a wet and unsettled start to Saturday, with heavy rain and showers possible through the morning and afternoon. Conditions may become brighter later, although strong and squally winds remain possible near the coast. Temperatures should reach around 21-22°C.
For anyone planning to stay for the fireworks, the outlook improves somewhat into the evening, with showers becoming more scattered and some clearer spells possible. However, the fireworks and watersports remain weather dependent, so check the latest organiser updates before travelling.
Sunday should start brighter, but further showers are expected to develop, potentially becoming heavy with thunder or hail during the afternoon and evening. The Regatta continues with the Sidmouth Gig Club Regatta, sailing and sea shanty entertainment.
Visitors should bring a waterproof jacket and suitable footwear, particularly around the seafront and The Ham.
Bring a waterproof jacket, an extra layer, water and sun protection. Keep an eye on the organisers’ latest announcements before travelling.
For the latest updates, check:
BBC Weather Sidmouth forecast
Met Office Sidmouth forecast
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.
Has the Sidmouth Airshow 2026 been cancelled?
No. The Sidmouth Airshow has not been cancelled. All flying assets are still planning to attend. The only change is that the Red Arrows, which are scheduled to finish the flying programme, will now perform three flypasts rather than a full aerobatic display.
Is Sidmouth Airshow free?
Yes. Sidmouth Airshow is free to attend, although visitors are encouraged to donate towards the cost of staging the event.
What time does Sidmouth Airshow start?
Activities begin at 3 pm with Road Arrows bicycle displays at Bedford Lawn and Port Royal. Sidmouth and Exmouth lifeboats and Sidmouth Lifeguards are scheduled from 4 pm, followed by the first flying display at 4.50 pm.
What time are the Red Arrows at Sidmouth Airshow 2026?
Three RAF Red Arrows flypasts are scheduled for 6.40 pm on Friday 28 August. These replace the previously planned full aerobatic display because weather and operational constraints mean the team must operate from an airfield farther away from Sidmouth.
Are the Red Arrows still appearing at Sidmouth Airshow?
Yes. The Red Arrows are still scheduled to appear and will finish the flying programme with three flypasts at 6.40 pm rather than a full aerobatic display. Their appearance remains subject to weather, aircraft serviceability and operational requirements.
Where is the best place to watch Sidmouth Airshow?
The Esplanade and Sidmouth Beach offer the most central views. Peak Hill, Jacob’s Ladder Beach, Connaught Gardens and Salcombe Hill provide alternative viewpoints, although elevated coastal areas may have uneven ground and steep drops.
Where can I park for Sidmouth Airshow and Regatta?
Parking is available in East Devon District Council car parks across Sidmouth. Additional Airshow parking on Friday 28 August will be available at Sidmouth Cricket Club from 10 am for £12 and Knowle Arena from midday for £10. Sidmouth Rugby Club is no longer available for Airshow parking. Arrive early and allow extra time for traffic.
Can I get to Sidmouth Airshow by public transport?
Yes. Stagecoach South West routes 9, 9A and 157 connect Sidmouth with Exeter, Honiton, Seaton, Beer, Exmouth and Budleigh Salterton. Honiton is usually the most convenient railway station, with onward buses to Sidmouth. Check live departures and service updates before travelling.
What time are the Sidmouth Regatta fireworks?
The Sidmouth Regatta firework display is scheduled for 9.15 pm on Saturday 29 August 2026.
Can I watch Sidmouth Airshow from a boat or paddleboard?
Spectators are encouraged to watch the Airshow from shore. A temporary Air Display Water Safety Zone will operate offshore from 3.30 pm until approximately 7.05 pm. Boats, jet skis, kayaks and paddleboards must remain outside the marked exclusion area and follow instructions from event safety vessels.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Flying displays and flypasts may be delayed, changed or cancelled when weather conditions affect safety. The timetable and aircraft appearances can also change for operational reasons, so check the latest official 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.
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.
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 backpacker 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, and 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.
Welcome to ThisIsSouthWest.com
Start Here!


