Things to Do in Paignton, Devon: A Complete Visitor Guide

This complete guide to the best things to do in Paignton explores its long sandy beach, Victorian pier, bustling harbour, Dartmouth Steam Railway, family attractions and hidden coastal walks, helping you plan the perfect visit to one of the English Riviera’s most popular seaside resorts.

Paignton is a busy resort with a population of around 50,000, combining a traditional seaside feel with modern attractions, independent shops, cafés and a lively events calendar. Together with neighbouring Torquay and Brixham, it forms part of the English Riviera, one of Britain’s most popular holiday destinations.

Paignton also makes an excellent base for exploring South Devon. Excellent rail and bus links provide easy access to Torquay, Brixham, Dartmouth, Totnes, Newton Abbot, Dawlish and Teignmouth, while the Dartmouth Steam Railway, Paignton Zoo, Splashdown Quaywest and the South West Coast Path are all on the doorstep. Accommodation ranges from holiday parks and budget hotels to stylish seafront properties and traditional guest houses.

This guide introduces everything you need to know about visiting Paignton, including how to get there, the best things to do, where to eat and stay, what events are taking place and how to make the most of your time on the English Riviera.

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Map of Paignton, UK

Paignton is located on the South Devon coast within Torbay, approximately 20 miles (32 km) south of Exeter and 25 miles (40 km) north east of Plymouth. It is between Torquay to the north and Brixham to the south, making it a convenient base for exploring the wider bay and surrounding South Devon countryside.

History of Paignton, Devon: From Medieval Village to Victorian Seaside Resort

Paignton’s history stretches back more than a thousand years, evolving from a small Saxon settlement into one of Devon’s best-loved seaside resorts. Today it is known for its sandy beaches, family attractions and Victorian pier, but beneath the promenade lies a fascinating story of bishops, markets, railways and tourism.

Early Origins and Saxon Paignton

The area around Paignton has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with archaeological discoveries revealing human activity long before the town itself developed. One of the most remarkable finds came in 1993, when a householder digging a patio on the Hookhills estate uncovered the burial of a young Roman woman dating from the third or fourth century AD. Now on display at Torquay Museum, the remains are regarded as the most complete Roman-period skeleton yet discovered in Devon.

The name Paignton first appeared in the Domesday Book of 1086 as Peintone, deriving from the Anglo-Saxon name Pæga, meaning “the settlement of Pæga’s people”. The original village developed on higher ground behind the dunes and marshes that once bordered Tor Bay. At the same time, a small fishing hamlet grew beneath Roundham Head, the headland between Paignton Harbour and Goodrington.

The Bishops of Exeter and Medieval Paignton

For centuries, Paignton was one of the principal estates of the Bishops of Exeter, and the bishops established a manor beside St John the Baptist Church, the remains of which survive today as the Bishop’s Palace and Coverdale Tower. A market charter granted by Edward I in 1294 allowed the town to hold a weekly market and annual fair, helping Paignton become an important local trading centre.

Nearby Kirkham House and the historic streets around Church Street and Winner Street still preserve much of Old Paignton’s medieval character.

Farming, Markets and Coastal Life

For much of its history, Paignton was a farming and market town rather than a major fishing port. The lush green surrounding land supported vineyards and orchards, cider and the growing of fruit and vegetables, while small fishing boats worked the sheltered waters of Tor Bay. Although Paignton had a harbour, nearby Brixham developed into the region’s main fishing port.

The Harbour, Railway and the Birth of Tourism

The nineteenth century transformed Paignton forever. The Paignton Harbour Act of 1837 led to the construction of a new harbour, while the arrival of the Dartmouth and Torbay Railway in 1859 connected the town to the South Devon Railway network, making it far easier for visitors from Exeter, London and the Midlands to reach the English Riviera.

Promoted by the Dartmouth and Torbay Railway Company and engineered under the direction of Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the line first opened between Torre and Paignton in 1859 before being extended through Goodrington and Churston to Kingswear in 1864. From Kingswear, passengers crossed the River Dart by ferry to Dartmouth, creating one of Britain’s most scenic rail and river journeys.

The railway transformed Paignton into a fashionable seaside resort. Hotels and villas appeared along the seafront, the Esplanade became a popular promenade and Paignton Pier, opened in 1879, quickly became one of the town’s best-known landmarks.

Today, the section south of Paignton survives as the Dartmouth Steam Railway, carrying passengers through Goodrington Sands, Churston and alongside the River Dart to Kingswear. It remains one of Devon’s most iconic visitor attractions and a lasting reminder of the railway that helped shape modern Paignton.

Oldway Mansion and Isaac Singer

One of Paignton’s most remarkable landmarks is Oldway Mansion, built during the 1870s for sewing machine pioneer Isaac Merritt Singer, whose inventions created one of the Victorian era’s great fortunes. After Singer’s death, his son Paris Singer remodelled the house in the style of the Palace of Versailles, creating lavish interiors, including a Hall of Mirrors, a grand marble staircase, and a magnificent ballroom, all surrounded by Italian-style gardens.

After serving as a military hospital during the First World War and housing RAF cadets during the Second World War, the mansion was purchased by Paignton Urban District Council in 1946. For decades, it served as the council offices and hosted weddings and civic events.

Maintaining such a vast Grade II* listed building proved increasingly expensive. Torbay Council vacated the property in 2013, and redevelopment plans for a luxury hotel and retirement apartments collapsed following legal disputes, leaving the mansion empty and gradually falling into disrepair, although the gardens remain open.

Today, Oldway Mansion is included on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register. Torbay Council continues to explore restoration options through heritage funding and new partnerships, with the long-term aim of bringing one of South Devon’s finest historic houses back into public use.

The Twentieth Century and Beyond

During the early twentieth century, Paignton flourished as one of Britain’s classic seaside resorts. The promenade was extended, gardens and boating lakes were created, and attractions such as Paignton Zoo, opened in 1923, broadened the town’s appeal beyond traditional beach holidays.

The town also expanded as neighbouring communities, including Goodrington and Preston, became part of the growing urban area. In 1968, Paignton joined with Torquay, Brixham and Churston Ferrers to form the new borough of Torbay, creating the local authority area that today is promoted as the English Riviera. Torbay became a unitary authority in 1998, with local services now administered by Torbay Council.

Like many British seaside resorts, Paignton faced challenges following the rise of overseas package holidays in the 1960s and 1970s. However, continued investment in its beaches, attractions and seafront, together with the promotion of the English Riviera as a year-round destination, has helped Paignton remain one of Devon’s most popular family resorts and an excellent base for exploring South Devon.

Paignton Today

Today, Paignton combines its Victorian seaside heritage with modern attractions and beautiful coastal scenery. Tourism remains central to the local economy, with the town forming part of the English Riviera alongside Torquay and Brixham, and attracting visitors to its beaches, attractions and year-round events.

Visitors can stroll along historic Paignton Pier, relax on wide sandy beaches, ride the Dartmouth Steam Railway, explore Old Paignton’s medieval streets or discover hidden coves along the South West Coast Path. Attractions including Paignton Pier, Paignton Zoo, Splashdown Quaywest and Young’s Park at Goodrington Sands add to its appeal, while events such as the English Riviera Airshow, Paignton Festival and Torbay Children’s Week draw thousands of visitors each year.

Paignton also remains an important transport hub for South Devon, with direct rail services to Exeter and London, heritage steam trains to Kingswear and seasonal ferry services across Tor Bay.

From its Saxon origins and medieval market charter to the arrival of the railway and the golden age of seaside tourism, Paignton has continually evolved while retaining its distinctive character. Today it remains one of Devon’s most popular family resorts and an excellent base for exploring the wider English Riviera and South Devon coast.

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Things to Do in Paignton, Devon

Paignton Beaches

There are plenty of things to do in Paignton, Devon, whether you’re planning a family holiday, weekend break or day trip. From long family-friendly sandy beaches to hidden coves and peaceful woodland-backed bays, the town offers some of the finest beaches on the English Riviera.

All are linked by the South West Coast Path, making it easy to explore several in a single day, while the frequent Stagecoach 12 bus, seasonal bay ferries and railway provide convenient return options for anyone whose legs have had enough of walking.

Paignton Sands

Paignton Sands is the town’s principal beach and the heart of the resort. Stretching for around half a mile along the promenade beneath Paignton Pier, it offers soft golden sand, gently shelving water and excellent facilities, making it one of the English Riviera’s most popular family beaches. Paignton Pier, cafés, amusements and traditional seaside attractions create a classic holiday atmosphere.

Preston Sands

Immediately north of Paignton Sands, Preston Sands forms a continuation of the same wide bay at low tide. Backed by the attractive open space of Preston Green, it is generally quieter than the main beach and popular with families, swimmers and paddleboarders. The level promenade also makes it an excellent place for a seafront walk.

Fairy Cove

Hidden beneath Roundham Head, Fairy Cove is one of Paignton’s hidden beaches.

Accessible on foot from the harbour or via steps from the memorial garden above, the small sandy cove is ideal for rock pooling and quiet relaxation away from the busier beaches. The surrounding cliffs offer excellent viewpoints across Tor Bay and expose fascinating red sandstone cliffs formed over 250 million years ago.

For those looking to escape the bustle of the seafront, Roundham Head and Roundham Gardens offer a quieter retreat. Perched on the headland above Paignton Harbour, the gardens provide panoramic views across Tor Bay towards Torquay, Goodrington Sands and Berry Head, making them an ideal spot for a picnic, photography or simply relaxing for an hour or two.

Broadsands Beach

Further south towards Brixham, Broadsands Beach is a spacious sandy bay backed by woodland and reed beds. Popular with families, it offers excellent facilities, seasonal lifeguards and safe swimming, while the nearby South West Coast Path provides spectacular walks towards Elberry Cove and Berry Head.

Elberry Cove

A short walk beyond Broadsands, Elberry Cove offers a complete contrast to the nearby larger beaches. This peaceful shingle cove, surrounded by mature woodland, has clear water and beautiful views across Tor Bay. It is popular with walkers, photographers and wild swimmers seeking a quieter corner of the English Riviera.

For more inspiration, see our complete guide to Torbay Beaches, covering more than 20 beaches and hidden coves from Torquay to Brixham, together with maps, facilities and coastal walking routes.

Paignton Pier

Stretching 780 feet into Tor Bay, Paignton Pier is one of the best free things to do in Paignton. Opened in 1879, it remains one of the town’s best-known landmarks, with fantastic views across Tor Bay and a classic English seaside atmosphere.

Visitors will find amusement arcades, cafés, bars and family attractions together with spectacular views across Tor Bay towards Torquay and Brixham. Sunrise and sunset walks along the pier are particularly rewarding for photographers.

Paignton Harbour

Although smaller than neighbouring Brixham Harbour, Paignton Harbour retains plenty of charm. Fishing boats, yachts and pleasure craft share the sheltered basin while cafés and restaurants overlook the water.

The harbour is also the departure point for seasonal ferries and sightseeing cruises around Tor Bay and provides easy access to Fairy Cove and Roundham Head. It’s a lovely place to sit with an ice cream and watch the boats come and go.

Goodrington Sands

Just south of the harbour lies Goodrington Sands, one of Devon’s best family beaches. The wide sandy bay is backed by cafés, colourful beach huts and the open spaces of Young’s Park, while heritage steam trains regularly pass behind the beach on their way to Kingswear.

The calm waters are perfect for swimming, paddleboarding and kayaking, while the nearby cafés make it easy to spend an entire day beside the sea.

Young’s Park and Splashdown Quaywest

Young’s Park is one of Paignton’s most popular family attractions, offering boating lakes, adventure golf, open green spaces and children’s play areas overlooking Goodrington Sands.

Adjacent to the park is Splashdown Quaywest, the UK’s largest outdoor waterpark. Featuring twisting flumes, splash pools and family rides, it provides one of the South West’s biggest summer attractions and is particularly popular during school holidays.

Dartmouth Steam Railway

Few railway journeys in Britain are as scenic as the Dartmouth Steam Railway. Heritage steam locomotives depart from Queen’s Park Station beside Paignton railway station before travelling through Goodrington Sands, Churston and alongside the beautiful River Dart to Kingswear. From there, passengers can catch the ferry across to Dartmouth.

Many visitors combine the railway with the Dartmouth passenger ferry and River Dart cruise to Totnes as part of the famous Round Robin excursion, widely regarded as one of the finest days out in South Devon.

Paignton Zoo Environmental Park

Covering more than 80 acres, Paignton Zoo Environmental Park is one of the South West’s leading wildlife attractions and is home to thousands of animals from around the world.

Visitors can see gorillas, orangutans, tigers, giraffes, rhinos and red pandas while exploring beautifully landscaped gardens and conservation exhibits. Families should allow at least half a day to explore the zoo properly.

Boat Trips and Ferries Around Paignton

Exploring Tor Bay by boat is one of the best things to do in Paignton. The sheltered waters of the English Riviera offer spectacular coastal scenery, hidden coves and colourful harbours, while the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark reveals millions of years of geological history. Keep an eye out for seals, dolphins, porpoises and seabirds, including the famous guillemot colony at Berry Head.

Several operators run ferry services and sightseeing cruises from Paignton Harbour, making it easy to visit Torquay, Brixham, Dartmouth and the River Dart without using the car.

Paignton Pleasure Cruises

Operating from Paignton Harbour for more than 60 years, Paignton Pleasure Cruises offers regular ferries between Paignton, Torquay and Brixham, together with coastal cruises to Dartmouth, wildlife trips and sunset cruises. Commentary highlights the bay’s geology, history and wildlife along the way.

Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company

The popular Round Robin excursion combines the Dartmouth Steam Railway, the Kingswear-to-Dartmouth passenger ferry, a River Dart cruise, and a scenic bus journey through the South Hams, creating one of Devon’s best day trips.

The company also operates River Dart cruises between Dartmouth and Totnes, passing Britannia Royal Naval College, Greenway, Dittisham and Stoke Gabriel, with commentary and regular wildlife sightings.

Western Lady Ferry

The Western Lady Ferry provides a scenic crossing between Torquay and Brixham, taking around 35 minutes across Tor Bay. Many visitors combine the ferry with local buses to enjoy all three towns of the English Riviera in a single day.

Our Tip

A boat trip is one of the highlights of any visit to Paignton. Whether you choose a short ferry crossing, a wildlife cruise or the famous Round Robin excursion, seeing the English Riviera from the water offers some of the finest views in South Devon.

Torbay Leisure Centre

Located just a short distance from the seafront, Torbay Leisure Centre is one of the English Riviera’s leading indoor leisure attractions. Facilities include a 25-metre swimming pool, a learner pool, a gym, fitness studios, and a sports hall, making it an excellent option for rainy days or year-round family fun.

The centre also hosts children’s activities, fitness classes and public swimming sessions throughout the week. At the same time, its central location makes it easily accessible from Paignton town centre and the railway station.

Walking the South West Coast Path

The South West Coast Path passes through Paignton, offering some of the finest coastal walks in Devon and linking many of the English Riviera’s best beaches and hidden coves.

Popular routes include:

• Paignton to Goodrington Sands
• Paignton to Broadsands Beach
• Paignton to Elberry Cove
• Paignton to Brixham
• Paignton to Torquay via Roundham Head and Preston Sands

Many sections provide spectacular views across Tor Bay, together with opportunities to photograph passing steam trains on the Dartmouth Steam Railway. For walkers wanting to explore further, our Torbay Beaches Guide follows the coastline from Torquay to Brixham in detail, covering more than 20 beaches and coves, facilities, hidden places and walking routes along one of South Devon’s most spectacular stretches of coast.

Other Attractions

Beyond the beaches, Paignton offers plenty more to discover.

Highlights include:

• Palace Theatre: hosting concerts, comedy and live performances throughout the year.
• Vue Cinema: a modern multiplex cinema showing the latest blockbuster films, ideal for rainy days and evening entertainment.
• Geoplay Park: an award-winning children’s playground inspired by the UNESCO English Riviera Global Geopark.
• Paignton Green: a large seafront park that hosts festivals and events throughout the summer.
• Torbay Park: an attractive seafront garden with colourful floral displays and open lawns, providing a peaceful green space just moments from Paignton Beach and the promenade.
• Kirkham House: one of Devon’s finest surviving medieval houses.
• St John the Baptist Church and the Bishop’s Palace: Explore the remains of Paignton’s medieval episcopal complex in Old Paignton.
• Victoria Park: providing gardens, play areas and green space close to the town centre.
• Victoria Street and Torbay Road, offering independent shops, cafés and traditional seaside shopping.

Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a romantic weekend or simply a day beside the sea, Paignton offers an excellent mix of beaches, heritage, attractions and coastal scenery that continues to make it one of Devon’s favourite seaside destinations.

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Paignton Town Centre: Shops, Markets and Things to Do

Paignton town centre is compact, easy to explore on foot and just a few minutes’ walk from the beach, harbour and railway station. Centred around Victoria Street, Torbay Road and the historic streets of Old Paignton, it offers a mix of national retailers, independent businesses, cafés and traditional seaside shops.

Like many British seaside towns, Paignton has changed over the years as shopping habits and town centres have evolved. Some areas would undoubtedly benefit from further regeneration, and there is no shortage of traditional bucket-and-spade shops and souvenir stores. However, visitors will also find a good selection of familiar high street names and independent retailers, making it easy to pick up everything from holiday essentials to clothing, gifts and beachwear.

What shops are there in Paignton?

Paignton’s shopping scene includes:

• High street names including Boots, Primark, New Look, Superdrug and Peacocks
• Independent gift shops and boutiques
• Bakers, butchers and local food stores
• Charity shops and antique stores
• Beachwear, toys and traditional seaside gift shops
• Cafés, coffee shops and ice cream parlours

While Paignton is not a major shopping destination, it offers enough variety to enjoy a relaxed couple of hours browsing or picking up holiday essentials. Visitors looking for a wider choice of shops can easily reach Torquay, which has a larger town centre, or Brixham and Dartmouth, both of which are known for their attractive independent shops and galleries. Totnes is particularly popular for its unique, bohemian shopping vibe, while Exeter can be reached by direct train or bus for a full city-centre shopping experience with department stores and major high-street brands.

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What’s On in Paignton, Devon: Festivals and Seasonal Highlights

Looking for what’s on in Paignton? The town hosts a varied calendar of events throughout the year, from walking festivals and international sporting competitions to traditional seaside celebrations, literary festivals and festive attractions.

Spring often sees the English Riviera Walking Festival, with guided walks exploring the South West Coast Path, hidden coves, historic sites and the spectacular coastline of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham.

Early summer brings the English Riviera Airshow, one of the South West’s biggest free events. Centred on Paignton Green and Paignton Sands, it features military aircraft, historic warbirds, aerobatic displays and family entertainment, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors to the bay.

The Paddle UK SUPER Festival and ICF SUP World Cup also take place on the English Riviera, combining elite international paddleboarding competition with community races, demonstrations and opportunities for beginners to get on the water.

Throughout the summer, Paignton Festival brings live entertainment, community events, markets, classic vehicles, and the traditional carnival procession to the seafront, while Devon FamFest Live offers a family-focused day of live music, children’s entertainment, workshops, and activities.

Book lovers can enjoy the Torbay Literary Festival at the Palace Theatre, while the internationally renowned Agatha Christie Festival celebrates the Queen of Crime with talks, guided walks, performances and events across the English Riviera.

For sports enthusiasts, the Torbay Half Marathon and 10K follow a spectacular coastal route through Paignton and Torquay, attracting runners from across the UK.

As Christmas approaches, the multi-award-winning Christmas Train of Lights transforms the Dartmouth Steam Railway into one of the South West’s most magical festive experiences, while the Bay of Lights illuminates Torquay, Paignton and Brixham with spectacular light displays, lantern parades and festive events.

Throughout the year, Paignton Green, the harbour and the seafront also host markets, outdoor entertainment and seasonal activities, while attractions including Paignton Zoo, the Dartmouth Steam Railway and the Palace Theatre present special programmes and events.

Event dates and programmes can change from year to year, so it is always worth checking before travelling. For the latest updates and a wider selection of events across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset, see our regularly updated guide to What’s On in South West England.

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How to Get to Paignton and Travel Around

By Train: Paignton is one of the easiest seaside resorts in Devon to reach by rail. Great Western Railway operates regular services from Exeter, Newton Abbot and Torquay, with direct trains from London Paddington on selected services or a simple change at Exeter St Davids or Newton Abbot. The railway station is just a few minutes’ walk from the beach, harbour and town centre, making the train an excellent option for visitors.

By Car: Paignton is reached via the A380 South Devon Expressway and A385 from Totnes. Traffic can be busy during school holidays and major events, and parking close to the seafront is limited and relatively expensive, with many car parks charging around £11 for a full day during peak season.

By Bus: Stagecoach South West operates an excellent network of frequent buses across Torbay and South Devon. We particularly recommend the Torbay DayRider Ticket, which offers excellent value and allows unlimited travel throughout the day to destinations including Torquay, Brixham, Totnes, Dartmouth and Dawlish, making it easy to explore without the hassle of parking.

Tickets can be purchased directly from the driver or through the Stagecoach Bus app, which is well worth downloading as it provides live bus tracking, timetables, journey planning and nearby bus stop information.

By Ferry: During the main holiday season, Paignton Pleasure Cruises operates regular passenger ferries from Paignton Harbour to Torquay and Brixham, offering a relaxing way to travel across Tor Bay while enjoying spectacular coastal views. The company also runs sightseeing cruises around the bay.

For travel between Torquay and Brixham, the traditional Western Lady Ferry, operated by the Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company, provides a popular 35-minute crossing. Many visitors combine the Western Lady and Paignton ferry services with local buses to create an enjoyable circular tour of the English Riviera.

Most ferry services operate from spring until autumn, with more frequent sailings during the summer months. Sailings are weather-dependent, so it is always worth checking the latest timetables before travelling.

On Foot and by Bike: Much of Paignton is easily explored on foot, with the beach, harbour, pier, railway station and town centre all within a short walk of each other. The South West Coast Path passes through the town, offering spectacular walks towards Torquay or Brixham, while National Cycle Network routes and quieter coastal roads provide enjoyable cycling opportunities.

Once you’ve arrived, many visitors find they rarely need their car, with most attractions easily reached on foot, by bus or by heritage railway.

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Where to Eat and Drink in Paignton

Paignton’s food scene combines traditional seaside favourites with independent cafés, waterfront restaurants and international cuisine. Whether you’re looking for fresh seafood overlooking the harbour, a relaxed pub lunch or an Italian meal after a day on the beach, you’ll find plenty of choice within easy walking distance of the seafront.

One of the best locations in town is the Harbour Light, overlooking Paignton Harbour. Its waterside terrace offers excellent views across Tor Bay while serving modern pub classics, local seafood, and Sunday roasts, making it a popular choice year-round.

For Italian cuisine, La Scala Restaurant has built an excellent reputation for authentic Mediterranean cooking, with fresh pasta, seafood and steaks served in an intimate setting just a short walk from the seafront. Booking ahead is recommended during the summer months.

Another excellent choice is TJ’s Restaurant, overlooking Paignton Harbour. With panoramic coastal views and a menu centred on seasonal ingredients, seafood and locally sourced produce, it offers one of the town’s best dining locations for a relaxed lunch or evening meal.

One restaurant we’re keen to try is Cinnamon and Olives on Torbay Road, which promises an interesting fusion of Sri Lankan and Italian cuisine.

Around the seafront and harbour, you’ll also find numerous cafés serving Devon cream teas, breakfasts and homemade cakes, together with ice cream parlours, fish and chip shops and family-friendly restaurants. The cafés around Paignton Green are ideal for watching the world go by after a stroll along the promenade.

A British Tradition – Fish and Chips

No visit to Paignton would be complete without enjoying traditional fish and chips by the sea. Freshly cooked cod or haddock served with chunky chips and salt and vinegar remains one of Britain’s favourite seaside meals and tastes even better when eaten overlooking the beach or harbour.

Many visitors take their meal onto Paignton Green or the seafront promenade, although keeping an eye out for opportunistic seagulls is highly recommended. Whether enjoyed from a harbour-side restaurant or wrapped up as a takeaway, fish and chips remain an essential part of any visit to the English Riviera.

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Where to Stay in Paignton, Devon

Paignton offers one of the widest ranges of accommodation on the English Riviera, from modern seafront hotels and family holiday parks to independent guesthouses, self-catering apartments and budget-friendly B&Bs. Whether you’re planning a weekend break or a traditional seaside holiday, there is something to suit every style and budget.

Families are particularly well catered for. Devon Hills Holiday Park, just outside the town centre, offers lodges, caravans and leisure facilities in a peaceful countryside setting, while Hoburne Devon Bay enjoys an elevated position overlooking the coast with indoor and outdoor pools, entertainment and family facilities. Meanwhile, Waterside Holiday Park offers family-friendly caravan and lodge accommodation overlooking Tor Bay, with leisure facilities and easy access to Goodrington Sands, the Dartmouth Steam Railway and the South West Coast Path.

For visitors wanting to stay close to the beach, Mercure Paignton Hotel provides modern four-star accommodation overlooking Paignton Green and the seafront, with many rooms enjoying sea views across Tor Bay. Nearby, The Palace Hotel combines Victorian character with extensive gardens, an indoor swimming pool and spa facilities, while ibis Styles Paignton offers contemporary accommodation in a superb seafront location overlooking Paignton Green, with stylish rooms and easy access to the beach, pier and town centre. Budget-conscious visitors may also wish to consider the Travelodge Paignton Seafront, which is in an excellent location, just a short walk from the beach and town centre.

Paignton is also home to dozens of independently owned guest houses and boutique B&Bs, many within easy walking distance of the railway station, harbour and seafront. These often provide a warm welcome, locally sourced breakfasts and excellent value compared with larger hotels.

Visitors looking for extra flexibility will find a wide choice of holiday apartments and self-catering cottages across Paignton, Goodrington and Preston Sands, making them ideal for families or longer stays on the English Riviera.

Motorhome users and campers are also well served, with holiday parks and campsites around Paignton and the wider Torbay area providing easy access to the beaches and South West Coast Path.

If you’re travelling during school holidays or major events such as the English Riviera Airshow or Paignton Festival, booking several months in advance is strongly recommended, as the most popular hotels can sell out quickly.

We recommend comparing prices and availability on sites such as Booking.com, Tripadvisor and other major accommodation providers, particularly during school holidays and major events such as the English Riviera Airshow and Paignton Festival, when hotels across Torbay can sell out months in advance.

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Weather in Paignton, Devon: When to Visit

Paignton enjoys one of the mildest climates in England and is among the sunniest destinations in South West England, thanks to its sheltered position on the English Riviera. Summers are typically warm and pleasant rather than excessively hot, making the town an excellent destination for beach holidays, coastal walks and outdoor attractions. Spring and autumn are often surprisingly mild, while winters are generally gentler than in many inland parts of the country.

The busiest months are July and August, when temperatures often reach the low to mid-20s Celsius and the beaches, harbour and promenade are at their liveliest. Late spring and early autumn can be excellent times to visit, offering pleasant weather, fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices.

As with anywhere on the British coast, conditions can change quickly, so it’s always worth checking the latest forecast before heading to the beach or planning a day on the South West Coast Path.

For up-to-date weather information, the Met Office or BBC Weather forecast provides reliable local conditions, while the Paignton webcam offers a useful live view of the beach and seafront before you travel.

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Practical Information for Visiting Paignton, Devon

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Other Helpful Links

• Booking.com – for most accommodation needs. Look out for options that include free cancellation.
• Easy Tide – Free UK tidal prediction service, providing tidal data and tide times for the current day and 6 days into the future.
• Expedia – good for flights and packages.
• GetYourGuide – find and book things to see. Includes unusual things to do.
• Hostelworld – Hostel-focused booking platform that fosters backpack connections.
• MetOffice – Weather forecasts from the UK’s official meteorological office.
• National Express – UK-based coach operator providing long-distance bus services
• Omio – Book travel tickets by comparing trains, buses and planes in one search.
• Rental Cars – to search out and book hire cars.
• Rome2Rio – Great for comparing local transport options (and for locating bus stops).
• Ticketmaster – What’s On – Major Events – Venues – Bookings
• Trainline.com – our go-to online platform for booking train and bus tickets, offering route planning, price comparisons, seat reservations, and ticket sales.
• Traffic England – for live traffic updates on major roads.
• Traveline SW – Comprehensive public transport information from A to B by bus, coach, train, ferry in South West England and Great Britain.
• TripAdvisor – for reviews of… pretty much everything. Our go-to before booking anything.
• Vrbo – Great for self-catering and vacation holiday home rentals.

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Paignton FAQs

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Is Paignton Worth Visiting?

Yes, absolutely. Paignton is one of the English Riviera’s most popular seaside resorts, known for its long sandy beach, family attractions and excellent transport links.

With so many things to do in Paignton, Devon, it’s easy to understand why it remains one of the English Riviera’s most popular resorts.

Families can enjoy Paignton Zoo, Splashdown Quaywest, the Dartmouth Steam Railway and traditional seaside fun on the pier and beach, while walkers and couples will appreciate the harbour, coastal scenery and South West Coast Path.

Paignton is also an excellent base for exploring South Devon, with easy access to Torquay, Brixham, Dartmouth, Totnes and beyond by train or bus. During the summer, arriving by public transport can be a far more relaxing option than driving and parking.

With accommodation to suit every budget and a superb location on the English Riviera, Paignton offers everything needed for a classic South Devon seaside holiday.

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