Car Hire Beer

Beer, a picturesque coastal village in East Devon, is a hidden gem along the Jurassic Coast. With a population of around 1,300, this charming fishing village offers visitors a delightful blend of seaside beauty, rich history, and unique attractions. For car travellers, Beer is accessible via the A3052, which connects it to larger towns like Exeter and Lyme Regis.

The village enjoys a mild maritime climate, with warm summers and cool winters. Visitors should pack layers and waterproof clothing to accommodate the changeable coastal weather. The best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is most favourable for outdoor activities and exploring the village’s attractions.

Attractions In Beer

Beer offers a diverse range of attractions that cater to various interests, from history enthusiasts and nature lovers to families and railway enthusiasts.

Beer Quarry Caves

These vast underground caverns offer a fascinating glimpse into Beer’s industrial past. The caves, which have been in use since Roman times, provided stone for many of England’s most famous buildings. Guided tours take visitors through the labyrinth of caves, sharing stories of the quarrymen’s lives and the cave’s history. Open from April to October, it’s a must-visit for history buffs. After exploring the caves, you might want to visit Seaton for more local history.

Pecorama

A unique attraction combining beautiful gardens with a model railway exhibition. Pecorama is home to the Beer Heights Light Railway, offering rides with stunning views over Lyme Bay. The site also features indoor exhibitions, play areas, and a restaurant. It’s open from spring to autumn and is a great day out for families. Railway enthusiasts might also enjoy a trip to Sidmouth to ride the Sidmouth and District Railway.

Hooken Cliffs

For nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts, the Hooken Cliffs offer breathtaking coastal views. This dramatic white chalk cliff formation can be explored via a scenic clifftop walk. The path is part of the South West Coast Path and offers panoramic views of the English Channel. It’s accessible year-round, but extra caution is needed in wet weather. After your cliff walk, consider exploring more of Devon’s beautiful coastline in Honiton.

The Story of Beer Shelter

Located on the beach, this small museum tells the fascinating history of Beer and its fishing heritage. It’s a great spot to learn about the village’s past and its connection to the sea. Open during the summer months, it’s free to visit and offers interesting insights for history enthusiasts. For more local history, you might want to visit Ottery St. Mary and its historic church.

Seaton Tramway

While not in Beer itself, the nearby Seaton Tramway is a popular attraction. This narrow gauge heritage tramway runs between Seaton, Colyford, and Colyton, offering beautiful views of the Axe Valley. It’s a great way to explore the local area and is particularly popular with families. After your tram ride, you could explore more of East Devon’s history in Topsham.

Bomb Shelter

A remnant from World War II, the Bomb Shelter in Beer is a testament to the village’s wartime history. While not always open to the public, it’s an interesting sight and a reminder of the area’s role during the war. History enthusiasts might also be interested in visiting Axminster to explore its heritage centre.

The Beer Heights Light Railway (BHLR)

Part of the Pecorama complex, the Beer Heights Light Railway is a miniature railway that offers a delightful ride through beautifully landscaped gardens. The railway features a variety of locomotives and provides stunning views over Lyme Bay. It’s a hit with both children and adults, offering a unique perspective of the surrounding countryside. The railway operates seasonally, typically from spring to autumn, and is a must-visit for train enthusiasts and families alike.

Seaton Labyrinth & Geological Timeline

Located in nearby Seaton, this fascinating attraction combines art, science, and history. The labyrinth is a beautiful spiral walkway that represents the geological history of the area, with each step equating to millions of years. As you walk, you’ll journey through time, learning about the formation of the Jurassic Coast. It’s an educational and contemplative experience, suitable for visitors of all ages and open year-round.

Beer Beach

No visit to Beer would be complete without spending time on its beautiful pebble beach. Nestled between towering white cliffs, Beer Beach offers a picturesque setting for sunbathing, swimming, and fishing. The beach is home to a fleet of working fishing boats, adding to its charm and providing visitors with the opportunity to watch local fishermen at work or even buy fresh fish. It’s a great spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll along the shore, particularly beautiful at sunset.

The Finger Labyrinth

This unique attraction offers a meditative experience in the heart of Beer. The Finger Labyrinth is a smaller, tactile version of a walking labyrinth designed to be traced with a finger. It provides a moment of calm and reflection, making it a perfect stop for those seeking a quiet moment amid their sightseeing. While small, it’s a testament to Beer’s commitment to offering diverse experiences to its visitors.

Beer’s diverse attractions offer something for everyone, from history buffs to nature lovers and families. Visitors can easily venture out to nearby towns such as Exmouth and Budleigh Salterton for additional experiences.