Torbay Airshow 2026: Complete Guide to the English Riviera Airshow

The Torbay Airshow 2026 (English Riviera Airshow) takes place from Friday 29 May to Sunday 31 May in Paignton, with flying displays over Torbay including the RAF Red Arrows, RAF Typhoon and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. This guide covers the full timetable, flying times, display lineup, parking, road closures, the best places to watch and everything you need to plan your visit to the Torbay Airshow 2026.

Returning to South Devon for three days, the event brings together aerial displays, seafront entertainment, food stalls, fairground rides and family attractions across Paignton Green and the Torbay seafront. Originally known as the Torbay Airshow, it is now officially the English Riviera Airshow, and it has grown into one of the largest free airshows in the UK and a major May half-term event in Devon.

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When is the Torbay Airshow 2026?

The official dates are:

• Friday 29 May 2026
• Saturday 30 May 2026
• Sunday 31 May 2026

The event is centred around Paignton Green, Paignton Beach and the Esplanade, with viewing areas stretching across Torbay.

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What is the Torbay Airshow (English Riviera Airshow)?

The English Riviera Airshow combines military and civilian flying displays with a large seafront event village, family entertainment and food stalls. It attracts visitors from across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and the wider UK, particularly during the late May bank holiday and school half-term period.

Alongside the aircraft displays, visitors can expect:

• Seafront entertainment zones
• Fairground rides
• Aviation exhibits
• Trade stands
• Local food and drink vendors
• Live music and performances
• Family attractions and activities
• STEM and RAF-related displays

Paignton Green becomes the centre of the event, while Torquay and Goodrington also provide excellent viewing points across the bay.

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Torbay Airshow 2026 Schedule and Flying timetable

This is an independent visitor guide to the English Riviera Airshow 2026 and is not the official organiser’s website. Event details and flying times can change, so always check official sources before travelling.

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Friday 29 May 2026 Airshow Flying Line Up and Timings (18:45 to 21:20)

Friday is the opening night of the English Riviera Airshow, featuring a shorter evening programme that builds towards a fireworks finale over Paignton seafront.

Flying takes place from approximately 18:45 to 21:20, with the RAF Red Arrows expected to open the evening “Take Off” display programme at around 18:45 (with a scheduled flight window of approximately 18:40 to 19:20). Timings are subject to change depending on weather conditions and operational requirements.

Friday Flying Line Up

The confirmed Friday lineup includes:

• RAF Red Arrows
• Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (Dakota, Hurricane and Spitfire)
• RAF Tutor
• The Firebirds (evening pyro display)

The Firebirds provide a dusk display combining aerobatics with pyrotechnics, leading into the closing fireworks.

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Saturday 30 May 2026 Main Flying Display Timetable and Line Up (12:00 to 16:00)

Saturday is expected to be the busiest day of the English Riviera Airshow weekend, with the full afternoon flying programme taking place over Torbay from around midday onwards. If you’ve visited in previous years, you’ll know Paignton Green can fill well before midday, especially with the RAF Red Arrows scheduled to kick off the main flying display at around 12:00 (with a planned flight window of approximately 11:55 to 12:35).

Saturday flying line up

The confirmed Saturday lineup includes:

• RAF Red Arrows
• Aerosuperbatics Wingwalkers
• Jet Provost
• Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (Dakota, Hurricane and Spitfire)
• RAF Tutor
• Taranto Formation (Wildcat HMA2 and Wasp HAS1)
• Navy Wings Westland Wasp
• Royal Navy Black Cats
• Navy Wings Seafire
• The Firebirds
• Jet Pitts – Rich Goodwin Airshows
• RAF Typhoon

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Sunday 31 May 2026 Main Flying Display Timetable and Line Up (13:00 to 16:00)

Sunday continues the English Riviera Airshow weekend with a full afternoon flying programme over Torbay, typically running from early afternoon through to mid-afternoon. Crowds remain busy across Paignton seafront, although Sunday can feel slightly more relaxed than Saturday, particularly earlier in the day.

Visitors can still expect headline displays across the afternoon, with strong interest around returning favourites and closing performances over the bay.

Sunday Line Up

• Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (Dakota, Hurricane, Spitfire)
• Aerosuperbatics Wingwalkers
• RAF Tutor
• Jet Provost
• The Firebirds
• Taranto Formation (Wildcat HMA2 & Wasp HAS1)
• Navy Wings Westland Wasp
• Royal Navy Black Cats
• Navy Wings Seafire
• Jet Pitts – Rich Goodwin Airshows
• RAF Typhoon

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Best Places to Watch the Torbay Airshow

One of the best things about the Torbay Airshow is its setting. Torbay forms a natural amphitheatre, meaning there are excellent viewing spots all around the bay, not just at the main event site.

Whether you want to be in the heart of the action or prefer a quieter viewpoint, there are plenty of options for watching the Torbay Airshow from Paignton, Torquay and Brixham.

Paignton Green

Paignton Green is the main hub for the Torbay Airshow, with commentary, stalls and direct views across the display area. It offers the closest experience to the flying displays, but is usually the busiest location.

Paignton Beach

Paignton Beach is popular with families wanting beach access during the Torbay Airshow. Ongoing sea defence works may affect access to parts of the beach and nearby areas of Paignton Green.

Goodrington Sands

Goodrington Sands is usually less crowded than Paignton Green, while still offering excellent views of the Torbay Airshow. It can feel a bit more relaxed, particularly earlier in the day or towards the edges of the beach.

Broadsands

Broadsands lies between Paignton and Brixham and offers a slightly quieter place to watch the Torbay Airshow. It is usually less crowded than Paignton Green, with good views across the bay, although aircraft will be slightly further from the main display line. A good choice if you want to avoid the busiest areas while still enjoying the airshow.

Torquay Seafront

Torquay offers wide panoramic views across Torbay, making it a good place to watch the Torbay Airshow. It is particularly well-suited to photography, with aircraft often framed against the coastline and harbour.

Brixham and Berry Head

Higher viewpoints around Berry Head near Brixham offer wide coastal views across Torbay during the Torbay Airshow. These spots are popular with aviation enthusiasts seeking a different view on the flying displays.

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Weather forecast for the English Riviera Airshow (last updated 27 May 2026)

Current forecasts suggest a run of generally pleasant and settled weather for the Torbay Airshow, although conditions may become more changeable later in the weekend.

Temperatures are expected to reach around 22°C to 24°C earlier in the week, easing slightly to around 20°C on Saturday and 19°C on Sunday. Saturday currently looks the better day for airshow viewing, while Sunday brings a higher chance of cloud and light morning rain.

Weekend weather outlook

Thursday
Sky: Sunny intervals
Temperature: Around 24°C

Friday
Sky: Sunny intervals
Temperature: Around 22°C

Saturday 30 May
Sky: Mostly cloudy with sunny spells
Temperature: 20°C / 13°C
Rain: Low risk, increasing later (10% to 20%)

Sunday 31 May
Sky: Cloudy with a risk of light rain
Temperature: Around 19°C
Rain: Higher chance, especially in the morning

Late May weather in Torbay is often mild and settled, but conditions along the South Devon coast can change quickly through the day. Visitors should be prepared for a mix of sunshine, sea breezes, and occasional showers.

For the latest updates, check:
BBC Weather Torquay forecast
Met Office Torquay forecast

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Torbay Airshow Food, Drink and Fairground Attractions

The English Riviera Airshow is as much a seafront festival as an aviation event, with Paignton Green turning into a busy event village throughout the weekend. Alongside the flying displays, there is plenty to see and do on the ground, making it a full day out for families and aviation enthusiasts alike.

Visitors can expect a wide mix of food stalls and refreshments, from street food vendors and fish-and-chips to ice cream kiosks, bars, and local produce stands. Paignton’s cafés, pubs and restaurants are also just a short walk from the main event area, giving plenty of options away from the busiest spots.

Across the event village, attractions typically include a fun fair with rides, children’s activities, and live entertainment on stage. There are also dedicated areas such as the Military Village and Emergency Services Village, where you can meet crews, see equipment up close and learn more about the aircraft and teams taking part in the airshow.

Interactive experiences are a highlight, with features such as the Typhoon simulator, alongside craft and trader stalls, charity stands and aviation merchandise. Live music and performances run across the weekend, adding to the atmosphere between flying displays.

Overall, the ground attractions play a big part in the English Riviera Airshow, turning it into one of the most complete South West events rather than just an afternoon of flying.

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Torbay Airshow Road Closures 2026

Road closures are in place across Paignton seafront and surrounding areas during the English Riviera Airshow weekend to manage traffic and ensure public safety.

The main closures affect Esplanade Road, with additional restrictions on nearby roads including Marine Parade, Lower Polsham Road, Torbay Road and Sands Road.

Road closure times

• Friday 29 May 2026: Esplanade Road closed from 14:00 to 22:30
• Saturday 30 May 2026: Esplanade Road closed from 10:00 to 22:30
• Sunday 31 May 2026: Esplanade Road closed from 10:00 to 18:00

Additional closures and access restrictions apply across the seafront throughout the event.

Access and Local Traffic

Access to Sands Road from Whitstone Road is restricted, with entry limited to residents, hotel guests, B&B visitors and those using designated airshow parking.

Paignton Harbour remains accessible, and Lower Polsham Road and Queens Road operate as temporary two-way routes to maintain access to Victoria Car Park during the event.

Further information about road closures for visitors, residents and businesses can be found here.

• Resident and Business Information

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Getting to the Torbay Airshow

Getting to the Torbay Airshow by Car

Paignton is easily reached by road, found just off the A380 from the east and the A385 from the west. These routes connect with the A30, A38 and M5, making the English Riviera Airshow accessible from across the South West and beyond.

Typical journey times are around 2½ hours from Bristol or Bournemouth, 3½ hours from the Midlands and Portsmouth, and approximately 4½ hours from central London, depending on traffic.

If using sat nav, follow postcode TQ4 6AG until you approach Paignton, then follow official event signage, which will direct you to the correct parking areas and road closures.

Entry to the English Riviera Airshow is free, but parking must be planned in advance. To guarantee a space, it is strongly recommended to pre-book official event parking before arrival.

Torbay Airshow Free Parking: What You Need to Know

There is no official free parking for the English Riviera Airshow in Paignton. With tens of thousands of visitors expected, nearby residential streets are heavily monitored and parking is limited.

You may find parking on the outskirts and walk in, but expect to walk a reasonable distance. If doing so, please park considerately and respect local residents.

Car parks across Torquay, Paignton and Brixham will operate as usual but are likely to fill up quickly during the event. Visitors are strongly advised to use designated airshow parking where available, book in advance, or travel by train, bus or other public transport.

Premium Parking

Premium Parking at the English Riviera Airshow offers the most convenient option, with locations closer to the main event area.

Premium parking sites include:

• Colin Road
• Hyde Road
• Victoria Park

Parking opens at 9 am and closes at 11:30 pm each day. On arrival, staff are on hand to guide visitors to their space, and bookings typically include an official 2026 English Riviera Airshow programme.

Some locations, including Hyde Road and Victoria Car Park, have height restrictions of 1.98 metres (6’6”), so check vehicle suitability before booking.

Parking Zone 1

Parking Zone 1 is located at Quay West Car Park and operates as a park-and-stride option, with an approximate 20-minute walk to Paignton Green and the Airshow Village.

As with premium parking, spaces include an official event programme and are managed throughout the day.

Parking packages vary by location and demand, with options designed to suit both day visitors and those seeking a more convenient experience near the seafront.

To secure a space in advance, parking and premium seating can be booked online at
English Riviera Airshow parking and tickets

Car parks generally open from morning on Saturday and Sunday and later on Friday, although times can vary.

Parking and Travel Advice

Parking is one of the biggest challenges during the airshow weekend, particularly on Saturday when visitor numbers peak. Expect heavy congestion on routes into Paignton and allow extra time for your journey.

Arriving early gives the best chance of avoiding delays and securing a convenient space. Road closures around the seafront are put in place before the flying programme begins, and mobile signals can become unreliable in busy areas.

For many visitors, combining driving with public transport, or switching to rail, bus or ferry for the final part of the journey, can make getting to the English Riviera Airshow much easier.

Getting to the Torbay Airshow by Train

Travelling by rail is often the easiest way to reach the English Riviera Airshow, especially during the busiest periods when road closures and parking can slow traffic across Torbay.

Paignton railway station is the closest station to the event and is around a 6- to 10-minute walk from Paignton Green and the main seafront viewing areas. The Airshow Village is within easy walking distance, making train travel one of the most convenient options.

Paignton is well connected to the wider rail network, with regular services linking Exeter St Davids and Newton Abbot to Paignton approximately every 30 minutes during the day. Most visitors travel via Exeter, Newton Abbot, Torquay or Plymouth, with onward connections from London Paddington, Bristol, Birmingham and Reading.

Services are operated by Great Western Railway, with a range of advance tickets and railcards available for those planning ahead. It can also be worth comparing prices and routes on platforms such as Trip.com and Omio, which let you compare different train options in one place.

After the flying displays finish, trains can become extremely busy, particularly on Saturday evening, so it is worth allowing extra time or considering a slightly later departure where possible.

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Getting to the Torbay Airshow by Bus

Local buses operate throughout Torbay during the English Riviera Airshow weekend, providing a straightforward way to reach Paignton without the need to drive.

Frequent services run into Paignton from across Torbay and surrounding areas, including Torquay, Brixham, Newton Abbot and Totnes. One of the main routes is Service 12, which offers a direct connection between Newton Abbot, Torquay, Paignton and Brixham. Open-top double-decker buses also run along the seafront on Service 122, adding a more scenic option during the event.

Paignton bus station is located close to the seafront and within easy walking distance of Paignton Green and the Airshow Village, making bus travel a practical choice for visitors staying locally.

Full timetable details and route information can be found at
Stagecoach bus services
and via
Torbay Council bus information

As with rail travel, buses can become very busy after the flying displays finish, particularly on Saturday afternoon and early evening, so allow extra time for your return journey.

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Getting to the English Riviera Airshow by Ferry

Travelling by ferry is one of the most scenic ways to reach the English Riviera Airshow, offering views across Torbay as you approach Paignton seafront.

Seasonal ferry services operate between Torquay, Paignton and Brixham during the airshow weekend, with crossings typically taking around 30 minutes.

Ferries arrive close to the seafront, within walking distance of Paignton Green and the Airshow Village, making them a practical option for visitors staying elsewhere in Torbay.

Local operators include Western Lady Ferry Service, We Ferry and Paignton Pleasure Cruises, with regular departures across the bay during busy periods.

Further details, including routes and timetables, can be found at
Torbay ferry information

Taking the ferry not only avoids parking and traffic but also offers a different perspective on the airshow, with some of the best views from the water itself.

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Getting to the English Riviera Airshow by Bike

Cycling to the English Riviera Airshow is a practical option for visitors staying locally in Torbay, with dedicated facilities available during the event weekend.

Free bicycle parking is provided at Parkfield, 38 Esplanade Road, Paignton (TQ3 2NH), within easy reach of Paignton seafront and the Airshow Village. The site is volunteer-supervised throughout the weekend, providing a safe and convenient place to leave your bike while you enjoy the displays.

This facility is operated independently by Safe Sustainable Travel Torbay rather than the event organisers, but it provides a useful alternative to driving, particularly during peak periods when roads and parking areas are busiest.

Cycling can also be a good way to avoid road closures and traffic delays, especially if you are travelling from nearby areas such as Torquay, Goodrington or Brixham.

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Accessibility

Accessible viewing areas and facilities are provided around the event village and Paignton Green. Visitors with accessibility requirements should check official event guidance closer to the weekend for the latest arrangements and parking information.

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Where to stay for the Torbay Airshow

Accommodation across Torbay books quickly for the English Riviera Airshow weekend, particularly seafront hotels and family-friendly holiday apartments close to Paignton and Torquay.

Popular places to stay include Paignton for easy access to the airshow, Torquay for a wider choice of hotels and nightlife, and quieter bases such as Goodrington, Preston Sands and Brixham, all within easy reach of the seafront.

You might also consider staying slightly further afield in places such as Dawlish, Exeter or Totnes, all of which are easily accessible by train and bus. These can be good options if accommodation in Torbay is limited or more expensive during the event weekend.

Staying locally makes a big difference during the airshow, allowing you to avoid heavy traffic, skip the parking queues and enjoy the atmosphere after the flying displays finish.

For the best availability and prices, it is worth checking platforms such as Booking.com, Trip.com and Tripadvisor, or using the interactive map to compare hotels, apartments and last-minute deals across Torbay.

Booking early is recommended as accommodation across Torbay fills quickly for the airshow weekend, particularly close to Paignton seafront.

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Things to do Nearby

The airshow works well as part of a wider South Devon break, with plenty of attractions nearby. You can also explore more ideas in our What’s On in South West England guide.

• Paignton Pier
• Paignton Zoo
• Goodrington Sands
• Brixham Harbour
• Dartmouth
• Berry Head Nature Reserve
• The South West Coast Path
• Torre Abbey
• Kents Cavern

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Top Tips for Visiting the Torbay Airshow

Arrive early

The busiest viewing areas fill well before flying starts.

Bring layers

Weather conditions along the South Devon coast can change quickly, even in late May.

Bring a Picnic

Queues for food stalls can be long, so it is worth bringing a picnic, snacks and something to drink. A rug or folding chairs can also make things more comfortable.

Expect queues

Transport, parking and food stalls become busiest immediately after flying finishes.

Consider public transport

Rail and bus travel can reduce much of the stress associated with road closures and parking.

Stay overnight if possible

Torbay is usually much quieter early in the morning before day visitors arrive.

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Is the English Riviera Airshow Free?

Yes. The English Riviera Airshow is free to attend. Charges apply for parking, fairground rides, food and optional hospitality or premium viewing areas.

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Official English Riviera Airshow Information & Guides

For the latest announcements, flying programme updates, parking details and road closure information visit:

• English Riviera Airshow Official Website
• British Airshows Torbay Airshow Guide

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Torbay Airshow 2026 FAQs

When is the Torbay Airshow 2026?

The Torbay Airshow 2026, officially known as the English Riviera Airshow, takes place from Friday 29 May to Sunday 31 May 2026, with flying displays over Torbay and the main event village on Paignton Green.

What time are the Torbay Airshow flying displays?

Current published timings are approximately 18:45 to 21:20 on Friday 29 May, 12:00 to 16:00 on Saturday 30 May, and 13:00 to 16:00 on Sunday 31 May 2026. Timings may change due to weather, operational requirements or aircraft availability.

What time do the Red Arrows fly at the Torbay Airshow?

The RAF Red Arrows are scheduled to appear on both Friday and Saturday during the 2026 Torbay Airshow. On Friday 29 May, they are expected to open the evening “Take Off” display programme, with a display time around 18:45 and a flight window of approximately 18:40 to 19:20. On Saturday 30 May, they are scheduled to kick off the main flying programme around 12:00, with a flight window of approximately 11:55 to 12:35. All timings are subject to change depending on weather conditions and operational requirements.

Is the Torbay Airshow free?

Yes, the Torbay Airshow is free to attend. There is no charge for entry, but costs apply for parking, food, fairground rides and optional premium seating or hospitality.

Is there free parking at the Torbay Airshow?

There is no official free parking for the Torbay Airshow in Paignton. With large crowds expected, surrounding residential streets are heavily monitored and spaces are limited. You may find parking further out and walk in, but expect a reasonable distance and always park considerately.

Where is the best place to watch the Torbay Airshow?

Paignton Green is the main viewing area and event hub, while Paignton Beach, Goodrington Sands, Torquay seafront, Brixham and Berry Head also offer views across Torbay.

What aircraft are appearing at the Torbay Airshow 2026?

The 2026 line up includes major displays such as the RAF Red Arrows, RAF Typhoon, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, RAF Tutor, Royal Navy Black Cats, Aerosuperbatics Wingwalkers, The Firebirds and Rich Goodwin’s Jet Pitts.

How do I get to the Torbay Airshow by train?

Paignton railway station is the closest station to the airshow and is around a 6 to 10 minute walk from Paignton Green and the Airshow Village. Regular services run from Exeter St Davids and Newton Abbot, with wider connections from London Paddington, Bristol, Birmingham and Reading.

Can I park at the Torbay Airshow?

Yes, official parking is available at selected sites in Paignton, including premium parking and Parking Zone 1. Pre booking is strongly recommended, especially for Saturday, which is usually the busiest day.

Are there road closures for the Torbay Airshow?

Yes. Road closures affect Paignton seafront during the event, including Esplanade Road and nearby roads. Esplanade Road is closed from 14:00 to 22:30 on Friday, 10:00 to 22:30 on Saturday and 10:00 to 18:00 on Sunday.

Where should I stay for the Torbay Airshow?

Paignton is the most convenient base, while Torquay, Goodrington, Preston Sands and Brixham are also popular. Dawlish, Exeter and Totnes can also work well as they have rail and bus links into Torbay.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Flying displays can be delayed, changed or cancelled if weather conditions affect safety. Visitors should check the latest official airshow updates, BBC Weather and the Met Office forecast before travelling.

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Helpful Links for the Torbay Airshow 2026

These trusted resources can help you plan and book your trip, from transport and accommodation to weather and local information.

• 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.
• Get Your Guide – 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 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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