Torbay Experience
Our Stunning Coastline - Activities
The English Riviera’s coastline is its greatest treasure, boasting sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and hidden coves. Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham each offer unique seaside experiences, from family-friendly sands at Paignton to tranquil bays like Meadfoot. The South West Coast Path provides breathtaking walks along rugged headlands, with views across the sparkling sea. Wildlife is abundant, with chances to spot dolphins, seals, and seabirds along the shore. Colourful beach huts, Victorian promenades, and lively harbours add character to the scene. Whether you’re swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking in the view, the Riviera’s coastline is the essence of Devon’s seaside charm.
Walking & Cycling - Activities
The English Riviera is a paradise for walkers and cyclists, offering miles of scenic trails that weave through coastal paths, rolling hills, and nature reserves. The South West Coast Path runs through Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, treating visitors to dramatic sea views, hidden coves, and charming seaside towns. Inland, quiet lanes and woodland trails provide a peaceful cycling escape for families and enthusiasts alike. Popular routes include the John Musgrave Heritage Trail and safe cycle paths connecting local towns. Many routes are well signposted, with plenty of welcoming pubs, cafés, and tearooms along the way. Whether you want a gentle stroll to admire the stunning coastline or a more energetic ride through the countryside, the Riviera caters to every level. Its blend of sea air, sunshine, and inspiring landscapes ensures that walking and cycling here is more than exercise – it’s a refreshing and unforgettable experience.
Diving & Water Sports - Activities
Sheltered bays and clear waters make the English Riviera perfect for diving and water sports. Torquay and Brixham are home to diving schools, offering beginners’ lessons and advanced wreck dives. Paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, and jet-skiing are popular across beaches like Meadfoot and Goodrington Sands. Families can enjoy banana boat rides or snorkelling in calm, shallow waters. Marine life, reefs, and wrecks ensure plenty to discover beneath the surface. With expert tuition, equipment hire, and safe, sheltered conditions, water activities here are ideal for both adventure-seekers and families. The Riviera combines fun, fitness, and stunning coastal scenery in every activity.
Boating and Fishing - Activities
Boating and fishing are central to the English Riviera’s character. Cruises from Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham showcase stunning coastline views and often spot dolphins. Fishing trips run daily from Brixham, offering mackerel or deep-sea angling adventures, while harbourside crabbing is a favourite family pastime. Visitors can also hire boats for independent exploration of secluded bays and coves. From luxury yachts to small motorboats, there’s something for every budget. With Brixham’s proud fishing heritage, fresh local seafood features prominently in local restaurants, giving visitors the chance to taste the day’s catch. Boating and fishing here combine relaxation with tradition and excitement.
Golf - Activities
Golf on the English Riviera offers scenic courses with sea views and year-round play. Torquay Golf Club provides a parkland challenge, while Churston Golf Club near Brixham offers dramatic clifftop holes overlooking the coast. Paignton’s pitch-and-putt courses are great for families or beginners, with driving ranges for practice. The mild climate means golf can be enjoyed in every season, and each club extends a warm welcome to visitors. Whether you’re an experienced player looking for a challenge or a casual golfer wanting a relaxed round, the Riviera offers a memorable golfing experience in beautiful surroundings.
Buses, Trains & Ferries - Activities
Getting around the English Riviera is simple and enjoyable thanks to its variety of transport options. Open-top buses provide a scenic way to travel between Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, while heritage steam trains on the Dartmouth Steam Railway take passengers through stunning coastal and countryside scenery. Ferries connect the towns across the bay, offering a quick and picturesque alternative to the road. With regular services and affordable fares, visitors can explore easily without needing a car. Whether by bus, train, or boat, travel here is part of the adventure, showcasing the Riviera’s charm from every angle.
Museums - Activities
The English Riviera’s museums celebrate history, culture, and creativity. Torquay’s Torquay Museum brings the area’s story to life, with fascinating exhibits including its Agatha Christie collection. In Brixham, the Golden Hind Museum Ship offers an interactive look at seafaring history aboard a full-sized replica galleon. Paignton and Torquay also feature small local museums highlighting Victorian heritage and local industries. Family-friendly, interactive displays make learning fun for all ages. From maritime treasures to literary history, the Riviera’s museums give visitors a deeper appreciation of the region’s past while offering engaging activities, perfect for rainy days or curious minds alike.
Theatres & Cinemas - Activities
The English Riviera is a hub for entertainment, with theatres and cinemas offering something for everyone. The Princess Theatre in Torquay hosts West End shows, concerts, and comedy, all with a stunning seafront setting. Paignton’s Palace Theatre provides a cosy venue for community productions, while Brixham’s theatre groups bring local stories to life. For film lovers, modern cinemas in Torquay and Paignton screen the latest blockbusters, while smaller venues show classics and independent films. From big-name performances to local talent, the Riviera’s theatres and cinemas ensure memorable nights out, blending culture and entertainment against the backdrop of the beautiful bay.
Sports - Activities
Sport is woven into the fabric of the English Riviera, with a wide range of activities for visitors. Traditional sports clubs cater for tennis, football, rugby, and bowls, while local leisure centres offer swimming, gyms, and fitness classes. The bay is also perfect for water-based sports like rowing, sailing, and paddleboarding, with local clubs welcoming new participants. Cricket remains popular, with scenic seaside grounds hosting matches in summer. Whether spectating or taking part, the area’s sports facilities are friendly and accessible. From casual fun to competitive play, sport adds energy and community spirit to the Riviera’s lively atmosphere.
Our Beautiful Countryside - Activities
Beyond the beaches, the English Riviera is surrounded by rolling countryside and green spaces. Gentle hills, woodland trails, and farmland create a peaceful contrast to the coast, perfect for walking, cycling, and picnics. Nature reserves like Occombe Farm and Cockington Country Park provide family-friendly ways to enjoy the outdoors, with wildlife, gardens, and open landscapes to explore. Villages with thatched cottages and traditional pubs offer a glimpse of Devon’s rural charm. With its mild climate and diverse scenery, the countryside here invites visitors to slow down, breathe fresh air, and discover the natural beauty that lies just inland.
English Riviera Geopark - Activities
The English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark is a unique attraction that celebrates the area’s incredible geological heritage. Covering the entire bay, it showcases 400 million years of history through dramatic rock formations, caves, and landscapes. Highlights include Kents Cavern, one of Europe’s most important Stone Age sites, and Berry Head, a striking limestone headland rich in wildlife. Trails, guided tours, and family activities help visitors connect with the Riviera’s natural wonders in an engaging way. As one of only seven Geoparks in the UK, it offers a truly special experience, combining education, conservation, and adventure in one remarkable destination.
Hanbury's - Fish Speciality
Judged as the South West's Fish and Chip Shop of the Year six times! Enjoy their famous fish and chips in the licensed fish restaurant or sit on Babbacombe Downs enjoying the view of the ocean with your takeaway supper. 10 mins drive or short bus ride.
Hanbury's, Princes Street, Babbacombe, TQ1 3LW
Tel: 01803 329928
Angels - Themed Restaurants and Tea Rooms
This tea room and daytime restaurant bustles from the moment the doors are open. Fine bone china and loose leaf tea with home made scones, local Jams and Devonshire cream make this a must stop for cream tea lovers everywhere. 10 mins cab ride to Babbacombe Downs.
Angels, Babbacombe Downs, TQ1 3LP
Tel: 01803 324477
Mr Cook - Restaurant
Mr. Cook offers really excellent, fresh food including fish, meat and vegetarian dishes and is only a five minute walk away from Garway Lodge. American theme with memorabilia adorning the walls. On warmer nights, customers can also dine al fresco in the Hollywood garden. 10 mins level walk down Avenue Rd towards seafront.
Mr Cook, Walnut Road, Torquay, TQ2 5JY
Tel: 01803 209090
Smokey Joes - Restaurant
American Themed Burger and Ribs Restaurant offering large portions at reasonable prices. 5 Mins Cab ride to clock tower and 100 yards up Torward Street.
Smokey Joes, 64 Torwood Street, Torquay, TQ1 1DT
Tel: 01803 214444
Jacks Waterfront - American
American style restaurant offering burgers, hotdogs and other american cruisine and drinks. Overlooking the harbour. 20 mins walk following the promenade by clocktower at inner harbour.
Jacks Waterfront, Vaughan Parade, Harbourside, Torquay TQ1 2BB
Tel: 01803 215459
Yum Sing - Cantonese
A great Restaurant for high quality cantonese cruisine. Booking is highly recommended. A great place for delicious Cantonese food, the Yum Sing has an extensive menu which caters for all tastes. Located in Old Torwood Road. Approx. 15 minute drive.
Yum Sing Cantonese Restaurant Old Torwood Road, Torquay, TQ1 1PN
Tel: 01803 293314
The Elephant by Simon Hulstone - Fine Dining
The Elephant restaurant is a bright, informal seaside restaurant which Situated by the beautiful Torquay harbour. Run by chef proprietor, Simon Hulstone and his wife Katy, it was the first restaurant in Torquay to be awarded a Michelin star & the only one to retain it. Which it has maintained Since 2006.
Elephant Bar and Restaurant, Beacon Terrace, Torquay, TQ1 2BH
Tel: 01803 200044
Occombe Farm
Opened in 2006, offers a whole new Devon food and farming experience for all the family. View Ruby Red cows, pigs, sheep grazing in the fields and hens and ducks in the orchard.
The Orange Tree - Fine Dining
Awarded the Restaurant of the Year 2008 by Les Routiers of Great Britain, the Orange Tree in Central Torquay provides a truly fine dining experience. Smartly refurbished, it is marketed as an English European Restaurant with an emphasis on 'old time' values.
Orange Tree, Parkhill Road, Torquay, TQ1 2AL
Tel: 01803 213936
The Barn Owl Inn - Traditionally British
A warm, friendly and inviting atmosphere awaits you at this newly refurbished inn which serves British classics on the menu and gastro specials. A short drive by car in under 10 mins, large car park on site.
Barn Owl, Off Torquay Road, Kingkerswell, TQ12 5AN
Tel: 01803 872130
The Coombe Cellars - Traditionally British
Distinctly adult dining in a stunning riverside setting overlooking the Teign estuary. Offers a good range of fish, meat and vegetarian dishes and nice selection of wines. Well worth the 25 mins car drive, large car park on site.
Coombe Cellars, Combeinteignhead, Newton Abbot TQ12 4RT
Tel: 01626 872423
Bull & Bush - Traditionally British
Traditional pub fayre, excellent value for money with consistently good portions and friendly service. 10 Mins walk up Old Mill Lane to Belgrave Road
Bull&Bush, 43 Belgrave Road, Torquay, TQ2 5HZ
Tel: 01803 380249
The Hare & Hounds - Traditionally British
An award winning Carvery which with a reputation as one of the most popular eating-places in nearby Kingskerswell for over 30 years. A vast range of dishes on offer including the superb carvery and a traditional sweet trolley to die for! 10 mins drive by car or cab.
Hare and Hounds, Torquay Road, Kingkerswell, TQ12 5HH
Tel: 01803 873119
Harvester - Traditionally British
Nationally renowned chain restaurant, menu includes fresh British farm assured spitroast chicken and 21 day mature steaks. Early Bird deal available seven days a week. Stunning views from a value for money restaurant. 25 mins level walk following the promenade along to other side of the inner harbour.
Harvester, Beacon Quay, Torquay, TQ1 2RD
Tel: 01803 380004
The Hole In The Wall - Traditionally British
A splendid pub and restaurant built in 1540 which offers excellent meat and fish dishes. Cobbled floors, beamed ceilings and warm atmosphere, Torquay's oldest Inn lies only a few yards from the Harbour. Consistently good service and food quality. Weekend live music. 20 mins walk following the promenade to inner harbour.
Hole in the Wall, Park Lane, Torquay, TQ2 2AU
Tel: 01803 200755
Amici - Italian
Recently opened Italian with a fresh contemporary feeling, offering great food and excellent service, near to Harbour. 20 mins walk following the promenade, just off inner harbour.
Amici, Torwood Street, Torquay, TQ1 1ED
Tel: 01803 201770
Biancos Italian Restaurant - Italian
Traditional Italian food with an intimate romantic atmoshpere. Specials of the day on the blackboard with fresh fish and seafood. Early Bird/After Theatre menu. 20 mins walk following the promenade, just off inner harbour.
Biancos Italian Restaurant, Torwood Street, Torquay, TQ1 1EB
Tel: 01803 293430
Jingles - Mexican
Superb Tex Mex food in a lively atmosphere. Dishes available from around the world from America to Asia and Mexico to the Mediterranean! On the main road leading into Paignton.
Jingles, 29 Hyde Road, Paignton TQ4 5BP
Tel: 01803 556600
Maha Bharat - Indian
Serves a mouth watering menu of contemporary Bengal and Indian cuisine. Possibly the best Indian Restaurant in Torquay ! Evening booking is recommended. Located in Torwood Street near the Harbour and Smokey Joes.
Maha Bharat, 52 Torwood Street, Torquay, TQ1 1DT
Tel: 01803 215541 or 215580
Indy-Yang - Asian
An exciting menu that encapsulates a assimilated Asian cuisines experience. Within a short walking distance from Garway Lodge. Short walk towards town, 10 mins max.
Indy-Yang, Belgrave Road, Torquay, TQ2 5HZ
Tel: 01803 380060
Babbacombe and St Marychurch - Towns Villages
These two small villages on the edge of town have much to offer people of all ages and provide a unique experience that is enjoyed by all. If you are looking for somewhere to discover when holidaying in the English Riviera, they offer a delightful alternative to Torquay town centre, with beautiful gardens, independent shops, a wide range of tea rooms and restaurants with stunning sea views and a number of local attractions.
Cockington Village and Cockington Court - Towns Villages
Cockington Court is set within an award-winning country park, just a mile from the seafront and a stone's throw from the chocolate box village of Cockington, offering the perfect environment for small creative craftspeople.
The businesses offer a diverse mix of craft specialisms. To fit with the ethos of the site, the studios are designed to include stop front as well as a 'making area', where businesses demonstrate their specialist skills to visitors.
The onsite shop is full of gifts, arts, and crafts from local makers, as the site as a whole is a regional crentre for promoting hand crafted quality local arts and crafts.
Paignton - Towns Villages
Famous for its long, sandy beaches, paddler-friendly waters and colourful bustling pier, Paignton remains a popular, traditional seaside resort.
Brixham - Towns Villages
Brixham is one of the area's main fishing ports, lines with seafood restaurants, pubs and gift shops, plus a market selling local catch. Take some time to walk around the harbour and explore the local history.
There is a replica of The Golden Hind, the ship Sir Francis Drake used on his voyages around the world from Plymouth. Explore the Ship that was home to Drake and his crew of seventy men. Experience the sights, sounds and smells of life aboard a Tudor ship. Feel the romance of the seas in the great age of sail.
Totnes - Towns Villages
A bustling small town on the River Dart with a variety of small shops specialising in local crafts and produce. It has some lovely old buildings and a unique Saxon Castle to visit. The town quay is home to some lovely bars and cafes, you can get a river tip down the river to Dartmouth.
Dartmouth to Totnes River Cruise | Dartmouth Steam Railway (dartmouthrailriver.co.uk)
For rail enthusiasts, the South Devon Railway runs steam trains to Buckfastleigh, stopping at Staverton Station mid-route. The line stretches for 7 miles, passing through spectacular countryside along the supper reaches of the Dart Valley.
Welcome to the South Devon Railway
The Dartington Centre (known as the Cider Press Centre) is a few miles out of Totnes on the road towards Buckfastleigh. It is a collection of shops, cafes and restaurants in the old Cider Press selling a wide variety of local goods and also an outlet for Dartington glassware. It is near to Dartington Hall, a centre for the Performing Arts, great for lunch or an arts performance. The grounds are beautiful with some original Henry Moore sculptures.
Dartington Trust
Dartmouth - Towns Villages
Famous for both its nautical and engineering importance, Dartmouth is a town full of culture, history, and heritage, from castles to forts, ancient buildings and museums.
Dartmouth dates back as far as 1147, and over the centuries has manages to retain many of its original features. Wandering through the streets of Dartmouth you will see an eclectic mix of architecture amongst the buildings and streets, many dating back to the 16th century.
Castles, forts and even links to the Mayflower and founding fathers of America, Dartmouth's nautical heritage is impressive.
Even today Dartmouth is of nautical strategic importance and is home to the Britannia Royal Naval College. All accessible to visitors, spend a day exploring the historical buildings and places of Dartmouth.
There are two ferries across the River Dart, both transporting cars and passengers. The Upper Ferry links the town centre with the road to Paignton and Brixham, whilst the Lower Ferry links the old town with the village of Kingswear and the station for the Dartmouth to Paignton Steam Railway. There is also a passenger ferry down the river to Dartmouth Castle, an English heritage site that is well worth a visit. For those who can remember, the BBC series 'The Onedin Line' was filmed on location at Dartmouth harbourside.
Plymouth - Towns Villages
The historic and vibrant waterfront city of Plymouth is where a spirited maritime heritage meets a lively cultural scene which can be enjoyed by people of all ages throughout the year. Plymouth has the largest regional shopping centre at its heart with a wide range of independent and brand shops for all tastes. A well laid out series of shopping districts, department stores and indoor malls and markets are well served by transport and car parks leaving you free to wander on foot from area to area.
Exeter - Towns Villages
Exeter is unrivalled in the region for the choice of things to do, whatever the weather, night or day. Explore the city's many attractions all within close walking distance of each other.
Exeter's Cathedral is a magnificent example of gothic architecture. Explore the history of the city on a daily free Red Coat Guided Tour, starting from outside the West Front of the Cathedral. During sunny days, the Cathedral Greed is a mecca for people wishing to spend their lunch break soaking up the sun and enjoying the views.
As must-visit is the award-winning Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery. Enjoy stunning displays and prestigious loans and exhibitions from national partners. Experience the splendour of the original Victorian spaces, see newly revealed architectural features and discover new spaces.
Explore beneath Exeter's streets at Exeter's Underground Passages, a network of subterranean passages which can be explored on a guided tour, the only attraction of their type in the UK and designated a unique ancient monument.
Exeter's Historic Quayside is located about 15 minutes' walk from the city centre. It is one of the most interesting and picturesque areas of the city, with a fascinating history, interesting architecture, lively events and waterside pubs, restaurants and cafes.
Exeter's compact size makes it great for shopping, with big High Street names and a wealth of independents all within easy walking distance of each other, interspersed with lots of choice of places to eat and drink.
Just outside of Exeter is the quaint, historic port of Topsham, a town that is easily reached by public transport or by bike. The estuary town has many stunning views to take in like the one from the famous Goat Walk or along the estuary watching the boats and paddleboarders. It is also renowned for its independent shops and restaurants.
Dawlish - Towns Villages
Home of the famous black swans, Dawlish is a traditional seaside town, with a wonderful golden sand beach on its doorstep. The town offers a range of amusements and is centred around The Lawn and Brook. Just a few miles down the road is Dawlish Warren, a beautiful nature reserve with a blue flag beach. Dawlish is a great family holiday destination, with a long sandy beach which is perfect for summer day swimming, exploring rock pools or sandcastle building. Dawlish is easily accessible by road or on the train from Torquay.
The next station up the line is Starcross, a small village which is home to the original Brunel Atmospheric Railway pumping station (although the museum no longer exists, and the building is used by the local yacht club). If you want to cross the estuary to Exmouth, there is a passenger ferry operating close by the Train Station. Further up th Exe estuary is Powderham Castle, a lovely grand house set in beautiful grounds. It is the historic seat of the Earl of Devon, and a guided tour is well worth enjoying. There is also a fine farm food shop, restaurant, and garden centre on the estate with views over the estuary.
Dawlish - Visit South Devon
Starcross - Visit South Devon
Home - Powderham Castle
Teignmouth - Towns Villages
Still very much a working port town, Teignmouth is easily accessible by train or car from Torquay and gives the opportunity for a lovely stroll along the sea wall with cafes and the beach allowing plenty of places to relax. You can visit the pier and look across the estuary to Shaldon and The Ness beach. Teignmouth's Back Beach is home to some traditional pubs and seafood restaurants. If you have time take the passenger ferry across to Shaldon, possibly the oldest working ferry in the country with its history dating back to 1296.
Teignmouth to Shaldon Historic Passenger Ferry | Britains Oldest Passenger Ferry Between Teignmouth & Shaldon Beach
Going up the Teign estuary, you will come to the village of Bishopsteignton, with its famous Old Walls Vineyard and Winery. Immerse yourself in the traditional art of fine wine making with the guided vineyard tours. From the history of the vines to the equipment and techniques of wine-making artistry, discover how Old Walls produces wine and taste the end products.
Slapton Sands - Towns Villages
Going further down the coast from Dartmouth, Slapton Sands is a long shingle beach with breathtaking views across the English Channel. There is also an inland lake behind the beach containing many types of fish and birdlife. This was the site of the practice D-Day landings during the Second World War and a tank that was retrieved from the sea now stands close by.
From Slapton you can drive further to the towns of Kingsbridge and Salcombe, both on the Kindsbridge estuary. The towns have a fine selection of local shops, places to eat and drink, and give the opportunity to explore Devon's most southernly point. Take some time to absorb the beauty and diversity that is part of the county has to offer. Whether you wish to enjoy a cycle ride and bird watching along one of the riverbanks, take a short walk along the rugged and dramatic coastline or just enjoy the views of the Devonshire countryside as you amble through the lanes to one of the many quaint village pubs, this part of the region has plenty on offer.
Slapton Sands and Torcross Beach - Visit South Devon
Kingsbridge - Visit South Devon
Visiting Salcombe (visitdevon.co.uk)
Kents Cavern
See how Neolithic man lived 450,000 years ago in underground caves.Recognised as the most important Stone Age cave in Britain, Kents Cavern has revealed more about Paleolithic Britain than anywhere else.
Paignton and Dartmouth Railway
Unique in offering combined steam railway, river and sea adventures for days out in Devon. The 'Round Robin' trip which takes you by train, by boat and bus is the most popular excursion and is not to be missed.
Babbacombe Model Village
Bygones
A walk-through exhibition of Torquay life from Victorian times to the Second World War, with a life-size Victorian street and period rooms.
Brixham Heritage Museum
Shows local life since Napoleonic times and the replica of Francis Drake's Golden Hind, in the harbour, goes back further to the 16th century.
South Devon Railway
If you enjoy travelling by steam train then you can also visit the South Devon Railway, which is a seven mile steam railway running between Buckfastleigh and Totnes. At Buckfastleigh, there is a play area, gardens, museum, workshop and café.
Greenway
A glimpse into the private holiday home of the famous author Agatha Christie and her family. The relaxed and atmospheric house is set in the 1950's and contains many of the families collects. Outside you can explore the large and romantic woodland garden which drifts down the hillside towards the Dart estuary.
Coleton Fishacre
Travel back in time to the Jazz Age at the holiday home of the D'Oyly Carte family. The lovely sheltered gardens of this Art and Crafts House reach down to a little cove. There's also an award winning tearoom serving tasty pastries.
Paignton Zoo
Paignton Zoo is one of England's largest environmental parks with over 1,200 animals in the beautiful setting of 75 acres of botanical gardens. The zoo is one of Devon's most popular days out.
Torre Abbey
Torre Abbey is the oldest building in Torquay. It has a story spanning 800 years and was once the most important Abbey of its kind in England, the brothers who lived here then were known as the White Canons. Following a massive three-year restoration project visitors can now explore the most ancient and hallowed parts of the building where some stunning finds have been unearthed.
Powderham Castle
The Earl of Devon's Magnificent home features a deer park, secret garden, archery, birds of prey and local food shop. A guided tour takes you through the house and Victorian gardens.
Berry Pomeroy Castle
In a steep wooded valley, a family castle with 15th century defences, planned to be one of the most spectacular houses in the country. Never finished, it's the subject of several ghost stories. There are woodland walks from the carpark, with views of the ruins, plus the Castle Café.
Compton Castle
A bewitching mixture of romance and history. Once home to Sir Walter Raleigh's half brother Sir Humprey Gilbert, this rare fortified manor house in a dip in the Devon hills and has towers, buttresses, a portcullis and battlements.
