Holidays in the English Riviera, Devon

The English Riviera, otherwise known as Torbay, covers the area from Torquay round the horsehoe shape bay to Paignton and Brixham in the south. Rightly named, this area is known for it's mild climate, holiday atmosphere, sandy beaches and Mediterranean feel offering fun for all the family.

Torquay

Torquay, Devon

Torquay is at the centre of the English Riviera. A great holiday destination for many years it has an abundance to offer visitors of all ages. The waterfront is the main hub with pleasant promenades to scroll along and plenty of cafes and local fish restaurants to relax and watch the day go by. Living Coasts coastal zoo can be found on the harbourside and is open all year round. The zoo focuses on the conservation of coastal and marine life around the world.

If you fancy relaxing on the beach you'll be spoilt for choice; most have good access, sunbeds for hire and are ideal for swimming, building sandcastles or watersports. Anstey's Cove is a small shingle and rock beach which can get busy during peak months. The larger sandy beach called Torre Abbey Sands is centrally located and close to Torquay train station.

Opposite the beach is Torre Abbey Mansion. Founded in 1196, this Grade 1 listed building was once a monastery but today is a historic house and art gallery. Visitors should check at the local tourist information office for opening times.

The world famous crime novelist Agatha Christie was born in Torquay, lovers of her works should head to the Torquay Museum where you can learn more about her life. Furthermore the National Trust manages her property, Greenway House, that Christie bought in 1939. Visitors are welcome to visit the gardens which are open between March and October. Check opening times on the National Trust website.

Cockington Country Park

A mile outside of Torquay, off the Torbay road, is the village of Cockington. This rural village sits in a valley and has everything you'd expect from a quiet Devon village including horse-drawn carriages, a thatched pub, pretty gardens and picture postcard properties. Cockington Court and Country Park is a must - allow plenty of time to wander around the gardens then finish off with a cream tea in the Court. The whole area is now managed by the Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust, further details can be found on their website.

Paignton

Amusements, arcades and safe beaches show why Paignton is a popular choice for families and those looking for a quiet holiday by the water.

Visit Paignton Zoo

The famous Paignton Zoo is a great day out for visitors of all ages. Home to thousands of animals, you can watch feeding at various times of the day and speak to the keepers to learn more about how they behave and interact. If you don't fancy walking round the zoo hop on the Jungle Express miniature railway which is open to visitors from Easter. The Education Centre is home to Jungle Fun an indoor play area which is free, kids can play while parents relax! As well as seeing and learning about all the animals, Paignton Zoo is also botanical gardens with over 2500 different plants. Tours are available for large groups, contact the zoo for further information. Visit the zoo's website for details on opening times and prices.

The Quaywest waterpark is located at Goodrington Sands beach. Young or old the park has rides and slides for all age groups so whether you fancy a dip in the pool or whether you're brave enough to try the kamikaze, the choice is yours.

The Paignton and Dartmouth steam railway travels from the Torbay coast to Kingswear. The journey allows you to view the stunning scenery and special days out are available throughout the year, such as the Sea Train Adventure and the Round Robin.

Paignton's other main attraction is Oldway Mansion, once home to Isaac Merritt Singer, founder of the Singer sewing machine company and his mistress Isadora Duncan who died at the wheel of her sports car on 14th September 1927. This stunning building and well kept Italian themed gardens are open to the public, opening times can be found at the local tourist information centres.

Brixham

Brixham Harbour

Brixham has a very different feel to it's Torbay neighbours - still part of the English Riviera although somewhat quieter and more traditional. Brixham has always been a fishing village and you can see the trawlers along the harbourside with their daily catch, much of which is served in the local restaurants nearby. Boat trips from the harbour will take you around the bay to Torquay and Paignton look for the kiosks on the quayside.

Along the harbour you can view a replica of Sir Frances Drake's Golden Hind, the ship he circumnavigated the world between 1577-1580. This museum ship allows you to learn about the life and times of Drake and discover what it was really like aboard a 16th century sailing ship.

Keeping the nautical theme the Brixham Museum is a worthwhile visit to learn about the town's maritime past including navigation aids and sail-making tools. The Brixham Tourist Information Centre in the quay will be able to provide opening days and times.

Away from the harbour Berry Head Country Park is another must when visiting Brixham. Fortifications built during the Napoleonic Wars still stand. The park is now a conservation area which is home to many rare species of birds and the views across the Tor Bay coastline shouldn't be missed.