Torbay brings together three of South Devon’s best-known coastal towns: Torquay, Paignton and Brixham. Collectively promoted as the English Riviera, they curve around a sheltered natural bay filled with beaches, harbours, boat trips, family attractions and some of the finest coastal scenery in Devon.
Whether you are planning a family holiday, a coastal break or a day trip, there are plenty of fun things to do in Torbay throughout the year.
The best things to do in Torbay range from exploring prehistoric caves and visiting Paignton Zoo to riding a steam train, eating seafood beside Brixham Harbour and walking between secluded coves on the South West Coast Path. Each town has a different character, yet frequent buses, local trains and seasonal ferries make it easy to experience more than one during the same visit.
We know Torbay well and return regularly to walk its coast, photograph the harbours, visit its attractions and explore it by boat. This guide brings together our favourite places across the bay, with practical advice to help you decide where to go and how long to spend in each area.
Disclosure: Some of the outbound links on this page are affiliate links to sites that we use and would genuinely recommend. Using them doesn’t cost you extra, but it does help support this free guide. We also provide links to other sites that we believe may be helpful to you.
Map of Torbay, Devon
What and Where Is Torbay?
Torbay lies on the South Devon coast, roughly 20 miles south of Exeter. The destination includes Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, together with smaller communities such as Babbacombe, Cockington, Goodrington, Churston and Broadsands.
The similar names can be confusing. Tor Bay is the natural bay stretching from Hope’s Nose near Torquay to Berry Head near Brixham. Torbay is the wider local authority and visitor destination. The English Riviera is the tourism name used for the area.
Torquay is the largest of the three towns and offers the widest choice of restaurants, nightlife, hotels and year-round attractions. Paignton is the most traditional family resort, with a long sandy beach, a pier, a zoo, and a heritage railway. Brixham feels more like an independent harbour town, centred on its working fishing fleet, seafood and maritime character.
The entire area forms part of the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark. Its limestone cliffs, red sandstone headlands, caves, fossils and secluded coves tell a geological story spanning hundreds of millions of years.
A Brief History of Torbay
Torbay’s history stretches far beyond the growth of its seaside towns. At Kents Cavern, archaeologists discovered a jawbone thought to be 41,000 to 44,000 years old, making it Britain’s oldest known modern human fossil.
Torre Abbey, which gave Torquay and Torbay their names, was founded in 1196 and became one of the region’s wealthiest monasteries. Following the dissolution under Henry VIII, parts were converted into a private house. Its buildings, ruins and gardens can now be visited near Torquay seafront.
Brixham developed as a fishing and maritime town. William of Orange landed there on 5 November 1688 before marching towards London during the Glorious Revolution. Tor Bay later became an important Royal Navy anchorage, protected by forts built at Berry Head during the threat from Napoleonic France.
The railway transformed Torquay and Paignton during the 19th century. Torquay became a fashionable Victorian resort, while Paignton developed its pier, seafront and family attractions.
The three towns retain distinct identities: Torquay for its harbour and hotels, Paignton as a family resort, and Brixham for fishing and maritime heritage. Together they form Torbay, promoted as the English Riviera.
Best Things to Do in Torbay
1. Explore Torquay Harbour and the Seafront
Torquay Harbour is a natural starting point for exploring the English Riviera. The inner harbour, marina and Beacon Quay are surrounded by cafés, restaurants and bars, with passenger boats departing for trips around the bay.
From the harbour, follow the level promenade through Princess Gardens towards Torre Abbey Sands. The walk passes Torquay’s marina, the Princess Theatre and palm-filled gardens before reaching the town’s main beach. Royal Terrace Gardens, usually called Rock Walk, climb above the seafront and offer higher views across the bay, although the route involves many steps.
Allow extra time to visit Beacon Cove, a small and historic bathing beach close to the harbour that Agatha Christie once frequented.
2. Discover Prehistoric Torbay at Kents Cavern
Kents Cavern is one of Britain’s most important prehistoric cave systems and one of the best all-weather attractions in Torbay. Guided tours explore a network of chambers containing evidence of early humans and Ice Age animals.
The caves maintain a fairly constant temperature year-round, making them a good choice during wet weather or on an exceptionally hot summer day. Kents Cavern is in the Wellswood area of Torquay, approximately one mile from the harbour. Local buses stop near St Matthias Church, around a five-minute walk from the entrance. Check current routes and times using the Stagecoach journey planner before travelling.
3. Spend a Day at Paignton Zoo
Paignton Zoo is one of the leading family attractions in South West England. Its extensive grounds are home to animals from around the world, set among landscaped gardens and conservation areas.
There is enough to keep most visitors occupied for at least half a day, though many families spend the full day here. The zoo’s 80-acre site is hilly in places, so comfortable footwear is advisable. Paignton Zoo is approximately one mile from Paignton town centre and can be reached on foot from the railway and bus stations in around 20 to 25 minutes, mainly along Totnes Road. Alternatively, Stagecoach services 22 and 80 run from Paignton Bus Station and stop near the zoo entrance. Free parking is available for visitors arriving by car. Booking ahead can be sensible during school holidays.
4. Ride the Dartmouth Steam Railway
The Dartmouth Steam Railway runs from Paignton to Kingswear, passing Goodrington Sands before climbing through the countryside towards the River Dart. The combination of sea views, heritage locomotives and the final approach above the river makes it one of Devon’s most memorable railway journeys.
From Kingswear, a short passenger ferry crosses to Dartmouth. Visitors can return by the same route or choose the Round Robin, which normally combines the steam railway with a ferry, a River Dart cruise, and a bus journey.
5. Experience Brixham’s Working Harbour
Brixham Harbour is one of our favourite places in Torbay. Unlike a purpose-built resort harbour, it remains at the heart of a working fishing town. Fishing boats, leisure craft, passenger ferries and the lifeboat all share the busy waterfront.
Walk around the inner harbour, browse the independent shops and galleries, and continue towards the marina and breakwater. Seafood kiosks around the harbour sell crab sandwiches, prawns, shellfish pots and fish and chips. We also make a point of visiting the RNLI shop when it is open.
The harbour is especially photogenic in the early morning and evening, when the light catches the colourful buildings climbing the surrounding hills.
6. Walk to Berry Head
Berry Head combines spectacular coastal scenery, wildlife, military history and one of Britain’s most unusual lighthouses. The headland lies within a national nature reserve and protects the southern entrance to Tor Bay.
The walk from Brixham follows the harbour and breakwater before continuing past Shoalstone Pool and the Berry Head Hotel. The path becomes steeper beyond Shoalstone, but the views across the bay improve with every turn.
At the headland, visitors can explore the remains of Napoleonic forts, look for seabirds around the cliffs and stop at the café. The sheer drops require care, particularly with children and dogs. Berry Head is exposed in poor weather, so save it for a clear day if possible.
7. Explore Cockington Village and Country Park
Cockington feels far removed from Torquay’s busy seafront despite being only a short distance inland. Thatched cottages, a historic church, craft studios, parkland and woodland paths make it one of the most attractive free places to visit in Torbay.
The village can be reached by road or local bus, but walking is often more rewarding. One relatively gentle route follows the boardwalk from near the Livermead House Hotel for approximately one mile into the country park. The Drum Inn is a favourite place to stop for food or a drink.
8. Visit Babbacombe Downs and Ride the Cliff Railway
Babbacombe Downs stand high above the sea on Torquay’s northern side, providing wide views along the coast. The clifftop promenade is relatively level and lined with cafés and seating areas.
The historic Babbacombe Cliff Railway descends to Oddicombe Beach, avoiding the steep road and paths between the downs and shoreline. Nearby attractions include Babbacombe Model Village, Bygones and Babbacombe Theatre, making this an area where families could comfortably spend most of a day.
9. Enjoy Paignton Seafront, Pier and Harbour
Paignton offers the most recognisable traditional seaside experience in Torbay. Paignton Sands, its Victorian pier, amusement arcades and green create a lively holiday atmosphere during summer.
The nearby harbour is smaller and quieter than those in Torquay and Brixham. From here, paths lead around Roundham Head to Fairy Cove and Goodrington Sands. Paignton railway station and bus station are both close to the seafront, making the town particularly easy to reach without a car.
10. Spend the Day at Goodrington Sands
Goodrington Sands is one of Torbay’s best family beaches. Its broad sandy shoreline is backed by Young’s Park, cafés, colourful beach huts and seasonal attractions. The Dartmouth Steam Railway passes immediately behind the beach, adding to its distinctive setting.
Splashdown Quaywest, an outdoor waterpark with flumes and family rides, stands beside the park. The combination of beach, green space and attractions makes Goodrington an easy place for families to spend a full day.
11. Take a Ferry Across Tor Bay
Seeing the English Riviera from the water provides a completely different perspective. Seasonal passenger ferries connect combinations of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, while sightseeing trips explore the coastline and sometimes continue towards Dartmouth.
The Torquay to Brixham crossing on the Western Lady is particularly enjoyable, taking around 30 to 35 minutes depending on the service and conditions. It also makes an excellent car-free day out: travel one way by boat, explore Brixham and return to Torquay on the frequent Stagecoach 12 bus, which travels via Paignton.
Services are seasonal and weather dependent. Always confirm departure times and the final return sailing before setting out.
12. Walk Part of the South West Coast Path
The South West Coast Path links Torbay’s towns, beaches and headlands. One of its most accessible sections follows the seafront between Torquay and Paignton, while the coast becomes quieter and more rural south of Goodrington.
The stretch between Broadsands, Elberry Cove, Churston Cove and Brixham is especially attractive, passing woodland, secluded beaches and viewpoints across the bay. More experienced walkers can continue from Brixham to Berry Head and onwards towards St Mary’s Bay.
Our complete Torbay beaches guide follows the coast from Torquay to Brixham and includes more than 20 beaches and coves, access information and walking notes.
Things to Do in Torquay
Torquay offers the greatest concentration of year-round attractions in Torbay. It is the best choice for visitors wanting a lively harbour, a broad selection of accommodation and restaurants, or several wet-weather options within easy reach.
Places to visit in Torquay include:
- Torquay Harbour and Beacon Quay
- Torre Abbey Sands and Princess Gardens
- Kents Cavern
- Torre Abbey
- Torquay Museum and its Agatha Christie collection
- Cockington Village and Country Park
- Babbacombe Downs and Cliff Railway
- Babbacombe Model Village
- Bygones
- Meadfoot Beach and Anstey’s Cove
- Coastal walks around Hope’s Nose
See our complete guide to the best things to do in Torquay for detailed attraction descriptions, beaches, parking, restaurants, hotels and practical advice.
Things to Do in Paignton
Paignton is a convenient choice for families and visitors arriving by public transport. Its beach, pier, harbour, railway station and bus station all lie within a compact central area, while major attractions continue south towards Goodrington.
Fun things to do in Paignton include:
- Paignton Sands and Paignton Pier
- Paignton Harbour and Roundham Head
- Fairy Cove
- Goodrington Sands and Young’s Park
- Splashdown Quaywest
- Paignton Zoo
- Dartmouth Steam Railway
- Old Paignton and Kirkham House
- Broadsands Beach and Elberry Cove
- Boat trips from Paignton Harbour
See our complete guide to things to do in Paignton for more ideas, visitor information and places to stay.
Things to Do in Brixham
Brixham combines maritime character, seafood restaurants and easy access to the quieter southern side of Torbay. Its harbour, coastal walks, beaches, boat trips and wildlife make it particularly appealing to outdoor enthusiasts, adults and couples. At the same time, families with children who enjoy exploring will also find plenty to do. The town is hillier than central Paignton, although its harbour, town centre and breakwater can all be explored on foot.
Some of the best things to do in Brixham include:
- Brixham Harbour and the fish market
- The Golden Hind replica
- Brixham Breakwater and Breakwater Beach
- Berry Head National Nature Reserve
- Shoalstone Pool
- Battery Gardens
- Fishcombe Cove and Churston Cove
- Independent shops and galleries
- Seafood kiosks and harbour restaurants
- Ferries and wildlife cruises
See our complete Brixham visitor guide for detailed recommendations, walks, beaches, restaurants, parking and accommodation.
Best Beaches in Torbay
Torbay has more than 20 beaches and coves, ranging from broad family beaches to tiny inlets reached by steep coastal paths. They are among the most popular things to do in Torbay during summer, whether you want good facilities, easy access, watersports or a quieter place to relax.
Best for families
Paignton Sands, Goodrington Sands and Broadsands Beach offer sand, cafés, toilets and nearby parking. Torre Abbey Sands is another easy choice, particularly for visitors staying in central Torquay.
Oddicombe Beach is also popular with families. Its distinctive red-sand and shingle beach lies beneath Babbacombe Downs and can be reached via the historic Babbacombe Cliff Railway when it is operating. The alternative road and walking routes are steep.
Best for scenery
Meadfoot Beach has striking views towards Thatcher Rock, while Oddicombe Beach lies beneath the dramatic cliffs at Babbacombe. Broadsands combines a wide beach with views of steam trains crossing the viaducts behind it.
Babbacombe Beach lies in a sheltered position beneath the downs, with a small harbour, café and attractive views along the coast. Access is by a steep road or coastal path, so visitors should allow for the climb back.
Best hidden coves
Anstey’s Cove is one of Torquay’s most attractive smaller beaches and a good place for rock pooling at low tide. Surrounded by wooded limestone cliffs, this mainly shingle cove feels secluded despite being relatively close to Wellswood and Kents Cavern. Access is down a steep path and facilities vary by season. If you do not mind a slightly longer walk, free on-street parking may be available on Ilsham Road near Kents Cavern. From there, you can walk through Stoodley Meadow, where there is also a community café, before continuing towards the Cove.
Elberry Cove, Churston Cove, Fairy Cove, Peaked Tor Cove and Fishcombe Cove provide quieter alternatives to Torbay’s main beaches. If we had to choose a favourite, it would probably be Elberry Cove, with its clear water, wooded backdrop and views across the bay. Access to these coves may involve woodland paths, steps or steep slopes, and facilities are limited at several of them.
Best for coastal walking
There are two coastal walks in Torbay that we particularly recommend. The frequent bus network makes it easy to walk either route in either direction, with several possible starting and finishing points.
The first follows the coast from Oddicombe Beach to Torquay. It passes Babbacombe Beach before continuing towards Anstey’s Cove, where the walk down to the beach is well worth the extra effort. The route then takes in Hope’s Nose, Meadfoot Beach and Beacon Cove before reaching Torquay Harbour. Expect impressive cliff scenery as well as several steep climbs and descents.
The second follows the coast from Torquay to Brixham. For a slightly shorter walk, start in Paignton or farther south at Goodrington or Broadsands. The route passes a succession of beaches and coves, including Elberry Cove and Churston Cove, before continuing through Battery Gardens to Brixham Harbour.
Frequent buses make it straightforward to return from Torquay, Paignton or Brixham. When seasonal passenger ferries are operating, you can also complete part of the return journey across the bay by boat.
Read our guide to the best Torbay beaches for access details, facilities, dog restrictions and a complete coastal route.
Free Things to Do in Torbay
It is entirely possible to visit Torbay on a budget, and some of the area’s best experiences cost nothing. The beaches, harbours, coast paths, parks and viewpoints can all be enjoyed for free.
Self-catering accommodation and camping can help to keep costs down, particularly if you buy much the same food you would eat at home while allowing for a few local treats. Remember to budget for less obvious expenses such as parking, bus fares, ice creams and the occasional attraction or activity. Public transport in Torbay is reasonably affordable, particularly when using a day ticket for several journeys.
- Walk around Torquay, Paignton and Brixham harbours.
- Relax on one of Torbay’s beaches
- Explore Cockington Country Park
- Walk along Babbacombe Downs
- Follow the South West Coast Path
- Visit Berry Head National Nature Reserve
- Explore Battery Gardens in Brixham
- Walk along Brixham Breakwater
- Visit Roundham Head and Fairy Cove
- Explore Old Paignton
- Walk through Princess Gardens and along Torquay seafront
- Watch steam trains from Goodrington or Broadsands
For a simple, low-cost day out, pack a picnic and walk from Paignton to Brixham via Goodrington, Broadsands and Elberry Cove, stopping for a swim along the way when conditions are suitable. Return by bus from Brixham. The full route is reasonably demanding because of its length and several climbs, but you can start farther along the coast or walk a shorter section to suit the time and energy available.
Things to Do in Torbay with Children
Paignton Zoo, Splashdown Quaywest, Paignton Pier and Goodrington Sands are obvious choices. In Torquay, Kents Cavern, Babbacombe Model Village, Bygones and the cliff railway provide variety away from the beach. Brixham offers boat trips, the Golden Hind, the breakwater and plenty of opportunities to watch the fishing fleet.
Families who prefer outdoor activities can try rock pooling at low tide, follow part of the coast path or take a short ferry journey. Check beach safety information and tide times, and supervise children carefully near cliffs, harbour edges and steep paths.
Things to Do in Torbay When It Rains
Torbay has more wet-weather choices than many coastal destinations. Good options include:
- Kents Cavern
- Torquay Museum
- Torre Abbey
- Bygones
- Paignton Zoo, where many exhibits remain outdoors
- Riviera International Centre
- Palace Theatre in Paignton
- Princess Theatre in Torquay
- Babbacombe Theatre
- Cafés, restaurants and independent shops in the three towns
Babbacombe Model Village is primarily outdoors, although it can still be enjoyable during light rain. Opening times for museums and attractions vary seasonally, so check directly before travelling.
Walks and Outdoor Activities in Torbay
Torquay to Paignton
The coast path between Torquay and Paignton follows promenades and pavements for much of the route, passing Torre Abbey Sands, Corbyn Head, Livermead and Preston Sands. It is one of the easier longer walks in the area, although beach access may involve steps and some sections rise away from the water.
Paignton to Brixham
This more varied route passes Goodrington Sands, climbs towards Broadsands and continues through woodland beside Elberry Cove and Churston Cove. Battery Gardens provides the final approach into Brixham. Allow several hours and wear suitable footwear.
Brixham to Berry Head
The walk begins around Brixham Harbour and breakwater before continuing past Shoalstone Pool. The route then climbs towards Berry Head, with views back across Tor Bay. Allow at least half a day if you want time to explore the forts, visit the café and enjoy the reserve.
Watersports
The sheltered bay is popular for kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing and open-water swimming. Goodrington and Broadsands are convenient starting points when conditions are suitable, while several local businesses offer equipment hire or tuition. Sea conditions can change quickly, so use an experienced provider if you are unfamiliar with the area.
Boat Trips and Ferries Around Torbay
Seeing the English Riviera from the water provides a completely different perspective. Seasonal passenger ferries and sightseeing cruises depart from Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, with trips ranging from short crossings around the bay to wildlife cruises and longer excursions towards Dartmouth.
Western Lady Ferry operates between Torquay and Brixham, with the crossing usually taking around 30 to 35 minutes. Paignton Pleasure Cruises offers seasonal ferries linking Paignton with Torquay and Brixham, alongside coastal, wildlife and sunset cruises. The Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company also runs boat trips on the River Dart and its popular Round Robin excursion, combining a steam train, river cruise, ferry and bus journey.
Brixham also has a long sailing heritage. Depending on availability, visitors may be able to join sailing trips aboard historic vessels such as Vigilance of Brixham or boats operated by the Trinity Sailing Foundation.
A ferry can also form part of a car-free day out. Travel across the bay by boat, explore another town and return using the frequent Stagecoach 12 bus. Services are seasonal and weather-dependent, so always check current routes, departure times, and the final sailing before setting out.
For more local ideas and departure information, see our guides to things to do in Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham.
What’s On in Torbay
Torbay hosts events throughout the year, with the busiest programme running from late spring into autumn. Major annual events include the English Riviera Airshow, Torbay Royal Regatta, Brixham Pirate Festival, Brixham Heritage Sailing Regatta, the Port of Brixham Trawler Event and Paignton Festival.
Other highlights include the English Riviera Walking Festival, UNESCO Global Geopark Festival, International Agatha Christie Festival and England’s Seafood Feast. Sporting events, including paddleboarding competitions and the Torbay Half Marathon, also make use of the bay and its coastal setting.
During winter, the Bay of Lights, Christmas Train of Lights, markets and harbour illuminations bring seasonal colour to Torquay, Paignton and Brixham. The three towns also offer theatre, live music, food events, guided walks, craft markets and community festivals throughout the year.
For more details, see our guides to things to do in Torquay, things to do in Paignton and things to do in Brixham. If you are looking for things to do in Torbay today or this weekend, check our regularly updated What’s On in South West England guide before visiting.
How to Get to Torbay and Travel Around
By train
Torquay and Paignton have railway stations, with services towards Newton Abbot, Exeter and destinations further afield. Torquay station is close to Torre Abbey Sands and the seafront. Paignton station is a short walk from the beach, pier, town centre and bus station.
Brixham does not have a railway station. The simplest car-free route is normally to take the train to Paignton and continue by frequent local buses.
By bus
The frequent number 12 bus connects Newton Abbot, Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, serving many useful points along the way. Other local routes reach Babbacombe, Cockington, Wellswood, Paignton Zoo and surrounding communities.
Traffic can delay buses during summer weekends and major events. Allow extra time if connecting with a train or boat.
By car
Torbay is reached from the A380 South Devon Highway via Newton Abbot. Driving between the three towns is straightforward outside busy periods, but central roads and car parks can become congested during school holidays, sunny weekends and large events.
For a more relaxed visit, consider leaving the car at your accommodation and travelling around by bus, train or ferry. Torbay is one of the easier coastal destinations in South West England to explore without having to drive every day.
On foot and by boat
The South West Coast Path links all three towns, but walking the full distance requires a good level of fitness and most of a day. Seasonal ferries provide an enjoyable alternative and can be combined with buses to create circular trips.
Where to Stay in Torbay
The best place to stay in Torbay depends on the type of break you want, your budget and whether you plan to travel by car or public transport. Accommodation ranges from large seafront hotels and family holiday parks to guest houses, self-catering apartments, cottages and campsites.
Torquay has the largest selection of hotels and other accommodation in Torbay. Staying near the harbour puts restaurants, nightlife, boat trips and the town centre within easy reach, while Meadfoot, Wellswood and Babbacombe offer quieter surroundings. Torquay is hilly, so check the exact location before booking, particularly if a property is described as being within walking distance of the seafront.
Paignton is a good base for families and visitors exploring Torbay without a car. The railway station, bus station, beach, pier and Dartmouth Steam Railway are close together. Further south, Goodrington has family attractions, holiday parks, and easy access to the beach and the coast path. Paignton also offers guest houses, budget hotels, seafront properties and self-catering accommodation.
Brixham appeals to visitors looking for a working harbour atmosphere, seafood restaurants, independent businesses and access to Berry Head and quieter coastal walks. Accommodation includes harbour-view apartments, fishermen’s cottages, guest houses, hotels and holiday parks around the edge of town. Brixham is particularly hilly, and parking can be very limited, so check access, gradients and parking arrangements carefully before booking.
Wherever you stay, frequent buses make it easy to visit all three towns, while trains connect Torquay and Paignton and seasonal ferries cross the bay. Compare current prices and availability on Booking.com, then use Tripadvisor to read a selection of recent guest reviews. Check whether breakfast, parking and sea views are included, as these can make a significant difference to the final price and overall experience.
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 backpacker 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, and 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.
Torbay FAQs
What are the best things to do in Torbay?
The best things to do in Torbay include exploring the harbours in Torquay and Brixham, visiting Kents Cavern and Paignton Zoo, riding the Dartmouth Steam Railway, relaxing on Goodrington Sands, walking to Berry Head and taking a ferry across Tor Bay.
Is Torbay the same as Torquay?
No. Torquay is the largest town in Torbay. Torbay is the wider area that includes Torquay, Paignton, Brixham and several smaller communities. Tor Bay is the natural bay itself, while the English Riviera is the area’s tourism name.
How many days do you need in Torbay?
Three days provides enough time to experience the main character of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham. Five to seven days allows time for beaches, major attractions, boat trips, coastal walks and a day trip to Dartmouth or Totnes.
Which is better, Torquay, Paignton or Brixham?
Torquay offers the widest choice of attractions, accommodation and restaurants. Paignton is a good choice for families, beaches and public transport, while Brixham is known for its working harbour, seafood and coastal walks. The towns are close enough to explore during the same visit.
What can you do in Torbay for free?
Free things to do in Torbay include visiting beaches, walking around the harbours, exploring Cockington Country Park, following the South West Coast Path, visiting Berry Head and Battery Gardens, walking along Babbacombe Downs and exploring Brixham Breakwater.
Is Torbay good for families?
Yes. Family attractions in Torbay include Paignton Zoo, Kents Cavern, Babbacombe Model Village, Splashdown Quaywest, Paignton Pier and the Dartmouth Steam Railway. Goodrington Sands, Young’s Park and the area’s boat trips also provide family days out.
Can you explore Torbay without a car?
Yes. Trains serve Torquay and Paignton, while frequent buses connect Torquay, Paignton and Brixham. Seasonal passenger ferries also cross the bay. Paignton is usually the simplest interchange for visitors travelling onwards to Brixham.
Can you walk from Torquay to Brixham?
Yes. The South West Coast Path links Torquay, Paignton and Brixham. The walk is approximately 10 miles, depending on the exact starting point and any diversions, and should be treated as a full-day route. Frequent buses or a seasonal ferry can provide the return journey.
What are the best beaches in Torbay?
Goodrington Sands, Paignton Sands, Broadsands Beach and Torre Abbey Sands are popular family beaches with useful facilities. Meadfoot Beach offers attractive scenery, while Elberry Cove, Churston Cove, Fairy Cove and Fishcombe Cove provide quieter alternatives.
What is there to do in Torbay when it rains?
Rainy-day attractions in Torbay include Kents Cavern, Torquay Museum, Torre Abbey and Bygones. The area also has theatres, leisure facilities, cafés and restaurants. Paignton Zoo remains an option during lighter rain, although much of the site is outdoors.
When is the best time to visit Torbay?
May, June and September often provide mild weather with fewer visitors. July and August offer the widest choice of boat trips, events and seasonal attractions but are also the busiest months. Torbay can be visited throughout the year, with quieter coastal walks and several indoor attractions available outside summer.
Is Torbay hilly?
Parts of Torbay are hilly. Central Paignton and sections of Torquay seafront are relatively level, while Brixham, Babbacombe, coastal headlands and many smaller coves involve steep roads, paths or steps. Visitors with limited mobility should check individual access information and use local buses where helpful.
Is Torbay Worth Visiting?
We think Torbay is one of Devon’s best coastal destinations, with each of its three main towns offering something different.
Torquay combines a lively harbour with beaches, gardens and attractions. Paignton offers a traditional seaside break, family days out and excellent transport links, while Brixham remains a working fishing town with easy access to the coast around Berry Head.
There are drawbacks. Traffic and parking can be frustrating during busy periods; some town-centre streets feel tired (especially out of season); and the hills can make getting around difficult. The resorts are also crowded during the summer holidays.
Even so, we love Torbay, and it offers far more than a traditional beach holiday. Explore beyond the main seafronts: walk to Cockington, ride the Babbacombe Cliff Railway, follow the coast beyond Goodrington, eat seafood beside Brixham Harbour or cross the bay by boat.
These are experiences that make Torbay worth more than a day trip.
Over to you … have you recently travelled to South West England? What worked for you? What advice would you give to others? Please leave your comments below or join in the discussion in our Facebook Group.
New to South West England or returning after a while? Start with our ‘Travel Basics’ – quick guides packed with tips to help you plan your trip.
