A Complete Travel Guide To Torquay
Part of South Devon’s “English Riviera”, Torquay is a superb resort to visit at any time of year. A long sandy beach set around an impressive horseshoe shaped bay makes this the perfect place for all manners of water sports and sailing.
Torquay is an excellent base for visiting nearby towns such as Paignton, Brixham and Dartmouth, plus many other attractions along the way.
If shopping is your thing, Fore Street has a plethora of unusual shops for that special gift, or why not treat yourself instead! There is also an indoor market where you will find not only food and fresh local produce, but also clothes, furniture, toys etc. If the weather is a little inclement, the undercover Fleet Walk and Union Square offer a mix of high street shops and boutiques to tempt you.
Places to Visit Near Torquay
Just around the bay from Torquay is the quaint fishing village of Brixham. A charming bustling harbour with much to see and do.
Right on the front is the famous Golden Hind Museum Ship, perfect for pirates young and old! The ship is a replica of Sir Francis Drakes iconic galleon from 400 years ago, with many hands-on exhibits for visitors. Finish off with a scrumptious crab sandwich from one of the outdoor harbour-side cafes along the front.
From Brixham you can take a refreshing walk along the coast to Berry Head Lighthouse, an internationally acclaimed heritage site offering breath taking views over the headland. The area is home to a great variety of wildlife, you may even see a seal or two basking in the waters below. Whilst there, you can take a refreshment at the lovely Guardhouse Café where you can enjoy a coffee and cake or choose from an extensive choice of meals.
If you are feeling more adventurous, this is a great area for rock climbing and kayaking!
Just half a mile inland is the picture postcard hamlet of Cockington. Stroll the narrow lanes of this quintessentially English village with its thatched cottages and delightful selection of shops and cafes.
Visit the Forge, specialising in horse brasses as well as unique gifts for all occasions. An absolute must is a traditional Devon cream tea at the Rose Cottage Tea Rooms. Situated in beautiful mature gardens with a babbling brook and a charming bandstand where piano music is regularly played for guests.
Another afternoon out may include a visit to Greenway House and Gardens, the beloved holiday home of the famous author Agatha Christie. The house is set in the 1950’s and you can take a glimpse into her life here at that time. The home is surrounded by splendid gardens and woodlands.
How to spend your evening in Torquay
In the evenings, take your pick from the many restaurants and Bistros packed around the area, offering a variety of cuisines including locally sourced seafood.
You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to quality pubs, bars and restaurants, many with fine sea or harbour views.
For something a little more special, the Princess Theatre hosts all the popular national touring shows, including Jersey Boys, Calendar Girls among others and of course the prevailing Christmas Pantomimes.
Just a stone’s throw away, the Theatre at Babbacombe has long been famous for showing highly acclaimed variety and cabaret shows to suit all tastes.