Nicknamed ‘The English Riviera’, Torquay is loved for its sandy beaches, nostalgic charm and fun attractions. It’s even been named as the UK’s top seaside resort by TripAdvisor.
This thriving town is perfect for a traditional seaside holiday in Devon. There are buckets (and spades) of things to do, beautiful coastal views, plus plenty of unique shops and places to eat.
Whether you’re visiting Agatha Christie’s birthplace or one of its many museums, Torquay is an ideal choice for curious minds. Read our extensive guide of amazing things to do in Torquay and start planning your next seaside break today.
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1. Explore prehistoric caves at Kents Cavern
Kents Cavern is one of Britain’s best showcaves, boasting over 400 million years of history. See amazing stalagmites and stalactites (do you know the difference?) and explore a winding labyrinth of caves. You’ll hear about ancient humans, extreme weather, and brave Victorian excavators.
Guided tours around the caverns run throughout the day, and there are peaceful woodland walks to discover outside. Enjoy lunch or a cream tea at the award-winning Firestone Kitchen, or pick up some gemstone jewelry at the shop. A spectacular day out whether you’re one or one million.
2. See life in miniature at Babbacombe Model Village
Explore a beautifully kept model village of 424 miniature buildings, housing an estimated population of 13,160. Torquay’s most popular attraction is filled with British humour and witty details. Take a trip through the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s in miniature. You might even spot some mini celebs!
You’ll see English life and culture from the last 6 decades, with sound and animation bringing the displays to life. Look out for a ghost, the ‘Little Enders’ soap set, and the Victorian snowy village. Stay as long as you want – why not extend your stay at the tearoom or Gulliver’s Gift Shop?
3. Meet amazing sea creatures at Living Coasts Zoo
Spend your day in the company of penguins, otters, seals and more. Learn about animal behaviour (it’s not always polite!) at a feeding time talk, or just enjoy the panoramic sea views. If seabirds are your thing, you can see them close-up at the Waders’ Estuary, Auk Cliff and Penguin Beach areas.
This all-weather attraction is ideal for animal lovers – all the profits go towards conservation work. Tradewinds Gift Shop provides feel-good shopping, with an emphasis on Fairtrade jewellry and local art. Or, if you’re feeling p-p-p-peckish, you can visit the Living Coasts Cafe for some tasty fare.
4. Visit a medieval monastery at Torre Abbey
Established in 1196, Torre Abbey is the best-preserved medieval monastery in Devon and Cornwall. With stunning gardens and over 800 years of history, Torre Abbey makes a magical day out. Art lovers can browse a unique collection, including artworks by William Blake and the Pre-Raphaelites.
There’s a busy events programme of festivals, exhibitions and activities happening all year round. Look out for open-air film and music festivals, and shows from local artists. The Abbey also has a fine selection of lush gardens and many interesting archaeological features from medieval times.
5. Discover local history at Torquay Museum
Learn about Devon and beyond at one of South England’s most interesting museums. This impressive Victorian building houses a journey of discovery for all ages – from prehistoric artefacts to the Agatha Christie exhibition. It’s no mystery the famous crime writer was born right here in Torquay!
Experience the sights and sounds of country living in the museum’s reconstructed 1860s farmhouse. Or marvel at the wonders of ancient Egypt, including a mummified body with a painted coffin. The museum sits just a five minute walk away from the harbour and has a welcoming cafe.
6. Meet a life-sized Triceratops at Dinosaur World
Whether you’re a little dinosaur fan or a big one, Torquay’s Dinosaur World is a roarsome attraction. Discover real fossils and see full-sized dinosaurs brought to life in a fun interactive exhibition. Ever wanted to see a Parasaurolophus in its natural habitat? Walk through a variety of realistic scenes.
Wannabe paleontologists can try their luck in an excavation site, brushing away sand to find teeth, bones and claws. Or why not have a go at the Dinosaur Explorer Quiz and test your dino knowledge? There’s a themed gift shop to treat little ones and plenty of opportunities for memorable photos.
7. Voyage across the sea to Brixham Pirate Festival
If your wanderlust gets the better of you, take a boat from Torquay to Brixham for its annual pirate festival. Over the May bank holiday, this pretty harbourside town is overrun with the most fearsome swashbucklers in Devon. Look out for battle enactments, craft stalls and creative costumes.
Everyone knows pirates love to party, and the festival hosts a number of rum-swilling bands and musicians. The Brixham Pirate Festival is completely free to the public, so you can spend as long as you like there. But be warned; it’s hard to go back to normal life after being a pirate.
8. Get swinging at Jungle Journey Adventure Golf
Improve your golf skills and have a ball at this themed 18-hole course. You’ll meet jungle creatures like tigers, gorillas and chimps – who will all be doing their best to distract you from your perfect golf swing. This sunny course sits in Abbey Park, just a minute’s walk from Torquay’s seafront.
The course is well-kept, takes a good while to get around, and is a great value choice for families. Many of the holes have interactive challenges to complete, including a water-based one with a hungry crocodile. It’s open all day too, so you can keep on crazy golfing until sundown.
9. Take a trip on the Dartmouth Steam Railway
In the birthplace of Agatha Christie, it’d be a crime not to explore Devon by steam train. Enjoy the glorious South Devon coastline in style, with a ride through Torquay, Paignton, Brixham and Dartmouth. You can even combine your railway trip with a leisurely cruise on the River Dart.
Choose from a range of tickets and itineraries, or book the award-winning Round Robin trip for a whole day of eye candy. There’s a fleet of steam and diesel locomotives, each with their own charm and history. The best way to experience some of England’s most awe-inspiring landscapes, and one of the best family-friendly things to do in Torquay.
10. Travel back to Victorian times at Bygones
Walk along a recreated Victorian street at this memorable independent attraction. From cobbled pavements to authentic aromas, Bygones lets you immerse yourself in the past. Explore 15 shops, including a sweet shop, blacksmith and apothecary – each brimming with authentic displays.
This family-run attraction is perfect for history buffs; the attention to detail is amazing. Look out for an organ grinder, a gruesome dentist and an amusement arcade. Above the street, you can walk through the rooms of a Victorian house. There’s also a shop full of nostalgic goodies.
11. Enjoy the view from the English Riviera Wheel
One of Torquay’s most recognisable landmarks, this luxurious big wheel offers a stunning view of the English Riviera. Gaze out across the Princess Gardens towards Torquay Harbour, encased in a secure gondola. Choose from a Standard or Private carriage – you can even order champagne for the ride!
The wheel is almost 60 metres tall, giving a fantastic view of the surrounding area. You get a nice long ride of around 15 minutes and the gondolas keep you protected even if it’s raining. There’s an audio commentary, so you can pick out landmarks and take photographs as you slowly go around.
12. Take the Cliff Railway to Oddicombe Beach
This gorgeous beach is a hidden gem of Torquay, boasting colourful beach huts and a refurbished cafe. Little ones will love paddling in the shallows, while adventurous visitors can try a variety of watersports. Even the cliffs have character; being warped by geological forces over time.
It’s a steep road down to Oddicombe Beach, so we recommend taking the historic Babbacombe Cliff Railway. Built in 1926, the railway has ferried thousands of holidaymakers down to Oddicombe. In summer, the cliff lift is open from 9am - 6pm, so you can spend your whole day at the beach.
13. Walk along the South West Coast Path
Walkers, ramblers and rovers rejoice! The South West Coast Path is one of the world’s best long-distance walks, and it goes right along Torquay’s seafront. Do a few miles, or a few hundred – this coastal path stretches for an impressive 630 in total. It’s the UK’s longest National Trail.
If you’re feeling adventurous, venture along the 2.5 mile route from Torquay Harbour to Daddyhole Plain. You’ll see Beacon Cove where Agatha Christie used to swim, and the walk finishes at a spectacular vantage point. Remember to take sunscreen and plenty of snacks to nibble on.
14. Treat yourself to a show at the Princess Theatre
A trip to the seaside isn’t complete without a night at the theatre. Opening its doors in 1961, the Princess Theatre has hosted everyone from Morecambe & Wise to The Beatles. These days you’ll find famous musicals like Cats, Rocky Horror and Chicago, alongside big comedians like Jimmy Carr.
You can also find local independent productions, tribute acts and everything in between. This world-class theatre sits on Torquay’s seafront and features a fabulous cafe bistro. Start your evening with a delicious pre-show meal while enjoying soothing views of the Torquay Marina. Check their website for detailed information about what's on.
15. Have fun swimming at Waves Leisure Pool
Rainy day? Waves Leisure Pool offers watery times whatever the weather. With flume, wave machine and water-jets, this family-friendly pool is ideal for the young and young-at-heart. There’s a well-stocked shop if you’ve forgotten your goggles, and plenty of inflatables to choose from.
If you’re after some quiet time or serious swimming, the pool offers regular Adults Only sessions. Its big pirate ship playing area is a must for kids. The pool is observed by qualified lifeguards, so you can focus on having a good time. There’s a decent cafe too if you’re not keen on having a dip yourself.
16. Discover clues on the Agatha Christie Mile
Retrace the steps of the world’s best-selling author, while exploring some of Torquay’s nicest spots. The creator of Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple was born here in 1890, and many locations feature in her books. Look out for the seven unique information plaques dotted around the town.
Torre Abbey Gardens has a Christie-inspired garden of potent plants, while the Imperial Hotel features in novels such as The Body in the Library. Or explore some of Agatha’s favourite hangouts like Beacon Cove and the Princess Pier. You can even visit her handcrafted bust on Palk Street.
17. Enjoy picturesque cottages at Cockington
With its thatched houses, charming cricket ground and delicious cream teas, Cockington is the quintessential English village. Just a short bus ride away from Torquay’s harbour, it’s like visiting another world. Many of the narrow lanes and stone cottages date back to the 16th century.
Stroll around the village, or pick up some pretty arts and crafts at nearby Cockington Court. There’s a lovely pub and a choice of tea rooms to relax in, alongside a range of interesting local shops. Look out for the old village stocks and an ancient gamekeeper’s cottage hidden in the woods.
18. Bag a bargain at the Grand Flea Market
Don’t be put off by the name – there are treasures and hidden gems galore at the Grand Flea Market. Torquay’s town hall has housed an eclectic collection of traders and craftsmen for nearly 40 years. You’ll find everything from antiques and handmade jewelry to vintage books and vinyl.
The market has a friendly and chatty atmosphere, with many sellers happy to discuss the history behind their wares. If you’re really after a bargain, why not have a go at haggling? The market is open once a week, every Thursday from 9am until 1pm – plenty of time to browse up to 90 stalls.
19. Satisfy your curiosity at The Real Crime Museum
Gangsters, smugglers, serial killers and more. If you’re fascinated by the world of true crime, this quirky attraction will leave you feeling satisfied. Based in Torquay’s harbour, the museum houses a range of factual exhibits, including a prison cell from HMP Dorchester and a grisly cinema.
There is a huge section on Charles Bronson (his son runs the place!), and there are some surprising artefacts. The museum is housed underground in an old WW2 bunker – chilly, but strangely atmospheric. A memorable way to spend a rainy day if you’re eager for something unusual.
20. Get bus-y on English Riviera Sightseeing Tours
Hop on board Torquay’s famous open-top bus for a round trip of the bay. This vintage red-and-yellow bus – imagine a long, double-decker version of ‘Brum’ – travels from Torquay to Paignton twice a day. You’ll see the sights of the English Riviera, including Babbacombe Downs and Meadfoot Beach.
The tour lasts a generous 1.5 - 2 hours and tickets can be booked on board or at the harbour. Their knowledgeable guides give a running commentary of your surroundings, so you’ll always know where to look. There’s even a stop-off at Sweets & Treats for all your fudge, rock and ice cream needs.
Now you’ve seen all there is to do, why not book your Torquay break today?