Kate W
12 February 2019
This coastal resort epitomises the Devon South Coast experience. Uncover the secret coves, take a dip in the sparkling ocean or play games along the promenade.
A peaceful sleepy atmosphere encapsulates the coastal towns and villages along Devon’s South Coast. We have holiday cottages scattered along this beautiful region with accommodation down in beautiful Brixham, regal Dartmouth and the old fishing town of Teignmouth. Torquay mirrors that quiet and relaxed atmosphere while also offering a wealth of activities to keep you entertained if you’re looking for a little fun and games while on your getaway.
Jump in and take part in exciting water sports or hop onboard a sightseeing boat or fishing trip to see more of the beautiful harbour.
Skip to section:
About
Attractions
The beaches
Accommodation
Food and drink
Dartmoor
Exeter and Plymouth
About the town:
A waterfront gem set along the world-renowned English Riviera, known for its palm trees, microclimate and that iconic seafront fairground wheel, and in an excellent location with the opportunity to visit Dartmoor, Exeter or Plymouth, Torquay is the perfect UK holiday getaway.
The calm, sparkling waters full of old fishing boats and luxury yachts could belong to any tropical paradise while the exciting family-friendly seafront attractions make this coastal escape a distinctly British experience.
On your first day in this resort find time to take a stroll through town and along the seafront getting to know the lay of the land, pick a place to dine with a view of the ocean, check out the showtimes at the theatre, before ending your evening by stepping out onto the promenade to watch the sunset.
The attractions:
Entrance to Kents Cavern
Millions of years old, the prehistoric caves of Kent’s Cavern offer an unforgettable family day out with activities for kids, coastal and woodland walks, and Geopark. Tour the ancient rock formations and as you investigate the 400-year-old labyrinth of caves see if you can finally figure out the difference between stalagmites and stalactites.
If animals are your thing then take the 5-mile drive across to the famous Paignton Zoo where they have everything from tall, knobbly-legged giraffes, ferocious crocodiles, to the much-loved capybara, often described as a giant Guinea pig.
While Kent’s Cavern takes you millions of years back in time and Living Coasts takes you to the bottom of the ocean, Bygones Museum in the centre of town allows guests to discover a whole variety of time periods at once. With toys from the fabulous 50s’, a recreation of a Victorian street and mini railways and displays of objects from wars gone by, this interactive museum is a mishmash of British historical eras.
Finally for one of the most popular attractions in the area, feel like a giant as you march around Babbacombe Model Village. Located less than a mile from the coast and with 4 acres of miniatures in the award-winning gardens, it’s an exciting attraction that draws holidaymakers back again and again with its everchanging displays. Yes, they have medieval castles, Victorian England and a replica of the mysterious Stonehenge, but they also have current displays with recognisable characters and personalities such as their ‘Little Enders’ soap set and a celebrity mansion – see who you can spot!
The beaches:
The best beaches are found on the eastern coast of the Torquay area in Lyme Bay. Award-winning beaches lining the coast include the beautiful yet secretive Anstey's Cove, unique Babbacombe Beach and the pretty Meadfoot Beach. Anstey’s Cove and Babbacombe Beach also happen to be dog-friendly (at time of writing), so if you’re bringing man’s best friend along let them loose on these sandy shores while you explore and take in the scenery. Pick a favourite beach and enjoy a day of beachside fun.
Families will love the stretch of shingle and sand that makes up Goodrington Sands found in the town next door, Paignton. The seafront waterpark, steam railway and grassy parkland encapsulate the fun and old-time beauty of the scenic English Riviera. When you’re done lounging on the sand and shingle beach, family-friendly Paignton has a range of fantastic attractions of its own to keep you busy all day long.
The accommodation:
Torquay is right at the heart of the dazzling English Riviera, offering you the chance to experience the best that South Devon has to offer. Quaint country cottages and seaside gems are found scattered throughout this pretty coastal escape. Stay in a luxury holiday home overlooking the ocean, try a manor house apartment for two or pick out a family-friendly retreat in the centre of town. Whatever you're looking for, our range of Torquay cottages, including properties with hot tubs, is bound to have something for you.
The food and drink:
The elegance and opulence of The Orange Tree make this fine dining establishment an excellent place to spoil yourself on a distinguished evening out. Other delightful restaurants you could stop by include the Greek cuisine at Ephesus Restaurant, the olde-worlde atmosphere of Memories Bistro and the ever-elegant No 7 Fish Bistro & Wine Bar.
A warm welcome and good honest food greet you at Torquay’s traditional British pubs. Listen to live music at The Hole in the Wall, devour a carvery at Old Engine House, or discover the varied menu at the family-friendly Wighton Pub.
Dartmoor:
Less than 30 miles from Torquay, the landscape dramatically changes and becomes South Devon’s famous Dartmoor National Park. Rocky moorland, forests and wetlands make up this rugged landscape with quaint villages and cosy country pubs to rest your weary legs after a day’s exploration.
Map out a route that includes a trip to ancient monuments like Haytor Rock or old Iron Age hillforts, meet a herd of Dartmoor ponies and take in the wildlife, visit one of Dartmoor’s magical waterfalls, see a scenic National Trust site and return to a welcoming cottage at the end of a full day of exploration to collapse into bed.
Exeter and Plymouth:
If you’d prefer a city day out, from Torquay you can take your pick of either ancient Exeter (22 miles away) or the port city of Plymouth (33 miles). Both have excellent shopping and dining opportunities with Princesshay Shopping Centre in Exeter and Drake Circus in Plymouth.
Located on the River Exe, the city of Exeter predates the Romans and attractions include the magnificent cathedral, attractive quayside and Underground Passages that were built during the 14th century.
Meanwhile, Plymouth is sat right on the waters edge with The Hoe that includes parkland providing views out across to Drake’s Island. Stop by the fantastic National Marine Aquarium, see the boats in Plymouth’s harbour and enjoy a tour of the Plymouth Gin Distillery.
There’s so much to keep you busy in either of these vibrant cities although, with plenty of activities in and around Torquay, you may decide there’s no reason to go travel outside this entertaining coastal resort.
Inspired to book yourself a trip to this relaxing coastal resort? Browse through our collection of holiday cottages in Torquay and find your perfect seaside escape.
Or peruse our wide range of holiday homes, lodges and cottages across the whole of South Devon and take your pick of excellent retreats in one of the UK’s favourite holiday destinations.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.