Torquay

The English Riviera, Devon’s Beautiful Bay

The delightful English Riviera consists of the three coastal towns of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, each displaying individual character and charm.

Torquay is a cosmopolitan palm tree-lined destination with an international marina, offering a great shopping experience, fine dining restaurants and a vibrant night time scene. It’s also the only town in the South West region to have retained the Purple Flag award, supporting a safe and entertaining late-night experience for its harbourside visitors.

The traditional family-friendly resort of Paignton provides all the ingredients for a memorable seaside holiday.  There’s an iconic Victorian pleasure pier with more than 300 amusement machines and arcade favourites; donkey rides; a working harbour and a leisure centre and Velopark for keen cyclists.

The picturesque town of Brixham has a thriving fishing port and is rich in maritime history. This stunning area has gained a world class reputation for its exceptionally high standard of seafood caught in clear, local waters. Brixham Fish Market is at the heart of England’s Seafood Coast and supplies an impressive stock of freshly caught lemon sole, bream and Dover sole to the rest of the UK and across Europe. Visitors to the town can join early morning tours of the only live fish auction in the country.

Considered by many to be the Jewel in South Devon’s Crown, the Rivera’s stunning 22-mile coastline forms part of the South West Coastal Path. The breath-taking landscape has been designated UNESCO Global Geopark status in recognition of the rich geological, historical and cultural heritage of the area.  Renowned for its continental style and relaxed atmosphere, the pleasant mild climate makes this a perfect all year-round holiday destination.

There’s an impressive range of accommodation on offer too, with first-class hotels and B&Bs, self- catering and holiday parks offering adult only, family friendly or dog friendly options, within close proximity of the area’s amenities and great transport links.  

The area’s cultural highlights include Torquay as the birthplace of the world’s bestselling female author and Queen of Crime, Agatha Christie.  Retrace the famous crime writer’s steps by taking the ‘Agatha Christie Mile’ and spot the plaques displayed on some of the local landmarks. Starting at Paignton Station take a nostalgic trip on the Dartmouth Steam Railway and be transported along the coast to Greenway, Agatha’s holiday home with idyllic views of the River Dart.

There’s an abundance of things to do for all ages and interests so whether you’re visiting one of the area’s Top 10 award-winning beaches for a spot of sunbathing or water sports; enjoying a round of golf at one of the excellent 18-hole courses or stepping aboard the replica of Sir Francis Drake’s ship, The Golden Hind in Brixham Harbour you’ll be spoiled for choice.  The English Riviera boasts the highest concentration of top-quality attractions in the country so families are well catered for. Visit the prehistoric Stone Age caves at Kent’s Cavern; a miniature world at Babbacombe Model Village; enjoy outdoor adventures at Splashdown Waterparks or meet the gorillas and giraffes in their habitat at Paignton Zoo. 

Whatever you like to do you’ll be warmly welcomed by the locals and will want to return again and again.  To find out more visit www.englishriviera.co.uk