Torquay is the largest town on the English Riviera, built around a sweeping bay on the south Devon coast. It has Victorian and Edwardian architecture climbing the hillsides, a harbour with palm trees, and a microclimate that's noticeably milder than the rest of England. Agatha Christie was born here, and the town markets its connection enthusiastically. It's a proper seaside town rather than a village, with everything from chip shops to cocktail bars. The name "English Riviera" invites mockery, but on a sunny day, the palm-fringed harbour genuinely earns a double take.
Why Stay in Torquay
- Mild climate — the south-facing bay and sheltering hills create one of the warmest spots in England. Palm trees, sub-tropical gardens, and outdoor dining are all possible.
- Full town facilities — restaurants, shops, theatres, a cinema, a marina, and a wide range of accommodation. It's a working town, not just a resort.
- Good beaches, several sandy beaches (Meadfoot, Anstey's Cove, Oddicombe) within walking distance or a short drive.
- Honest caveat. Torquay has areas that feel tired and underfunded. The town centre has seen better days, with some empty shopfronts. Night-time can get rowdy in the harbour area during stag and hen season. Traffic and parking are frustrating in summer.
Things to Do in Torquay
Walk the seafront from the harbour to Meadfoot Beach. The route passes through the Victorian promenade gardens and gives views across Torbay to Berry Head. Meadfoot is a sheltered sandy beach below red cliffs, less crowded than the main town beach.
Kents Cavern, a prehistoric cave system on the outskirts of town, has guided tours through chambers where evidence of some of the earliest human habitation in Europe was discovered. Children enjoy it, and it's a good rainy-day option.
The Agatha Christie Mile walking trail connects locations associated with the author's life in the town. Her holiday home (Greenway, National Trust) is accessible by ferry from the harbour and makes a good half-day trip, combining the boat ride with a tour of the house and gardens.
For a scenic day out, take the steam train from Paignton to Kingswear, then the ferry across to Dartmouth. The combination of coast, steam railway, and the pretty estuary town of Dartmouth makes for a memorable outing.