Connaught Gardens

The gardens were named after His Grace, The Duke of Connaught, Queen Victoria's third son. Although the Duke's first visit to Sidmouth was not until 1931, the royal link with Sidmouth goes back even further when the young Princess Victoria, aged six months, with her parents, stayed in what is now the Royal Glen Hotel. It was the Duke himself who formally opened the gardens on 3 November 1934 at the age of 84. The plaque marking the grand opening is still clearly visible within the gardens overlooking the main lawn.

The gardens now contain a fine range of plants that thrive in the temperate climate including a new herbaceous bed by the main lawn.

The Jacob's Ladder is the tall white set of steps that have been constructed to link the gardens to the beach below.

Since their opening, Connaught Gardens have been used extensively for a range of activities including music, theatre and art exhibitions. During most weeks throughout the summer there is at least one band performing. The notice board by the steps from Manor Road lists all events. Occasionally, there is the opportunity to see theatre performed outdoors.

Photo © Copyright Lewis Clarke and licensed for reuse under creative commons