Beer is a village located on the South east coast of Devon on Lyme Bay. The village is on the Jurassic coast and is part of the countries first natural world heritage site. The village is approximately 25 miles from the city of Exeter and has the advantage of it being protected by its shape from the prevailing western winds.
The name Beer is not derived from the drink but from the old English word ‘Bearu’ which means a small wood or grove.
One of Beers most important and famous attractions is its Quarry caves. The manmade caves are vast and were first worked by the Romans. The stone that was removed was used to build over 24 cathedrals including Exeter and St. Pauls. The blocks of stone were quarried by hand and transported by horse and carts around the country. Beer stone was very sought after by masons due to its easiness to carve and hardness when exposed to air. A guided tour is now available that gives people an insight into the workings of the quarry from roman times up until its demise in the beginning of the 20th century.
The town’s main income in the past has been both fishing and lace making. Fishing boats where winched up onto the beach as the village did not have a harbour attached. These old fashioned winch and pulley systems are still visible on the beach, but these days tractors or an electric winches are used.
Beer is still famous for fishing especially its locally caught crabs, many fishing boats can be chartered and offer visitors the chance to experience fresh water fishing in a wonderful setting.
One great advantage with Devon Holidays is that there is so much to explore and discover that you can return year after year and still not see all you had planned.
As with many of the Devonshire coastal town’s beer has had a close association with smuggling throughout its history. It is said that Beer grew as a village through its smuggling roots, with its many cliff faces and alcoves giving ideal hiding spots for smugglers and their contraband.
With so much to do and experience within the village it’s no wonder that people return year after year to caravan holidays in and around the area. Families, couples and even the elderly will have a great time in Devon, and you’ll be back again too.