Family Fun
The English Riviera is the perfect place for family adventures and unforgettable days out. From exciting attractions to fun activities by the sea, there’s something to keep everyone smiling.
Make a splash at Splashdown Quaywest, the UK’s largest outdoor waterpark, packed with thrilling slides and pools for all ages.
Challenge the family to a round of adventure golf at Pirates Bay Adventure Golf, where pirate-themed courses bring plenty of laughs and friendly competition.
Step into a miniature world at Babbacombe Model Village, where beautifully crafted scenes and tiny characters create a magical experience for visitors of all ages.
Enjoy a fun day out at Paignton Zoo and experience over 2,000 animals and countless amazing plants across 80 acres of beautiful, landscaped grounds.
Whether splashing in the water, exploring miniature towns, or enjoying a bit of family competition, the English Riviera offers fun-filled days everyone will remember.
Discover the History
Step back in time and explore the rich history of the English Riviera.
Visit the beautiful Torre Abbey, a historic monastery and art gallery set within peaceful gardens, where over 800 years of fascinating stories come to life.
Venture underground at Kents Cavern, one of Britain’s most important prehistoric caves, where guided tours reveal how early humans and Ice Age animals once lived.
You can also uncover the region’s rich maritime and cultural history at Torquay Museum, home to fascinating exhibitions, including the world’s largest collection dedicated to Agatha Christie.
Together, these remarkable attractions bring the history of the English Riviera to life for visitors of all ages.
South West Coastal Path
The world-famous South West Coast Path offers one of the most spectacular walking experiences in the UK, and some of its most beautiful stretches can be found along the coastline of the English Riviera in South Devon.
As the trail winds through Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, walkers can enjoy breath-taking sea views, dramatic cliffs and hidden coves, including the stunning clifftop scenery around Babbacombe.
Whether you’re planning a short coastal stroll or a longer walking adventure, the English Riviera makes the perfect base, with many of our independent small hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs, and self-catering accommodation providers being located less than a mile from the path. This means visitors can step straight from their accommodation onto the trail and immerse themselves in the natural beauty, wildlife, and fresh sea air that make this coastline so unforgettable.
Beautiful Beaches & Quiet Coves
Boasting 20 beautiful beaches along 22 miles of stunning coastline on the English Riviera, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to relax, explore, or enjoy a family day by the sea.
In Torquay, you can visit Torre Abbey Sands, Meadfoot Beach, Beacon Cove, and Anstey’s Cove, each offering its own unique coastal charm.
Over in Paignton, favourites include Paignton Sands, Preston Sands, Goodrington Sands, Broadsands Beach, as well as the quieter Fairy Cove and Saltern Cove.
The harbour town of Brixham offers scenic spots such as Breakwater Beach, Fischcombe Cove, Churston Cove, St Mary’s Bay, and Shoalstone Beach.
Meanwhile, in Babbacombe, you’ll find the picturesque Babbacombe Beach and Oddicombe Beach. The Babbacombe Cliff railway, built in 1926 and with stunning views, is a fabulous way to reach Oddicombe beach.
Many of these beaches are dog-friendly too, with dogs welcome on all beaches between 1 October and 30 April, and on selected beaches all year round- so your four-legged family members can enjoy the coast just as much as you do.
National Trust Days Out
Just a short drive from the English Riviera, you’ll find some of South Devon’s most beautiful National Trust places to explore.
Visit Greenway House, the beloved riverside holiday home of Agatha Christie, set in glorious gardens overlooking the River Dart.
Discover the exotic coastal gardens at Coleton Fishacre, a stunning 1920s country house surrounded by colourful plants and sea views.
Step back to medieval times at Compton Castle, a fortified manor house with beautiful gardens and centuries of history.
All of these wonderful National Trust locations are within easy reach of the English Riviera, making them perfect for a relaxing day out before returning to the coast for an evening by the sea.
Exploring the English Riviera
One of the finest steam train journeys in the UK, the Dartmouth Steam Railway runs between Paignton and Kingswear and is a fantastic way to see some of our breathtaking coastal scenery. A short foot passenger ferry (free with your train ticket) takes you across the river to the historic town of Dartmouth, home to our Royal Naval College. You can combine this with a one-hour cruise along the River Dart passing Kingswear & Dartmouth Castles, Dittisham village, Britannia Royal Naval College, and Greenway House – home to the late Dame Agatha Christie
The Western Lady Ferry operates a regular service between Torquay and Brixham. The 30-minute journey is a great way to experience the area on the water, especially when the sun is shining, and you may even be lucky enough to spot seals or dolphins during your trip.
Escape the crowds and enjoy the English Riviera with Torquay Watersports. See the amazing coastline, wonderful wildlife and explore the many secluded and hidden coves. Take your pick from a one-hour or a 90-minute coastal trip looking for wildlife or experience The Raptor – an exhilarating 30-minute RIB ride, broken up into short bursts, stopping at places of interest to allow you to get your breath back. For more active involvement, Torquay Watersports also offers Coasteering and Keelboat and RYA sailing courses.
Evenings Out – The Theatres
As the sun sets on the beautiful English Riviera, the entertainment begins. Enjoy an unforgettable night out with spectacular live performances, music, comedy, and theatre across the bay. Whether you’re looking for a dazzling show, family-friendly fun, or a relaxed evening of drama and music, our theatres offer something for everyone.
The wonderful Princess Theatre – Torquay.
Enjoy spectacular live entertainment by the sea. from West End musicals to comedy and concerts, there’s always something exciting on stage.
The lively Babbacombe Theatre – Babbacombe.
Experience one of the English Riviera’s most loved theatres. Enjoy the variety shows filled with music, dance and laughter. Or one of the many tribute or comedy acts. A perfect evening of fun for couples, families, and friends.
The charming Palace Theatre – Paignton.
Discover a charming theatre in the heart of Paignton. Enjoy wonderful plays, musicals, and performances in a welcoming atmosphere. A great place to relax and enjoy live entertainment.
Live Music & Entertainment
There is a vibrant music scene that visitors can enjoy year-round, from relaxed seaside performances to lively evening entertainment. Across Torquay, Paignton, Brixham, and Babbacombe, you’ll find a wide variety of live music in pubs, bars, theatres, and outdoor venues, featuring everything from local acoustic artists and tribute bands to jazz, folk, rock, and contemporary music.
During the warmer months, the harbours and seafronts often come alive with open-air performances and music festivals, creating the perfect atmosphere to relax with a drink and enjoy the coastal views. Whether you’re looking for laid-back background music while dining or a lively night out with dancing and entertainment, the Riviera’s welcoming venues and talented performers make it easy to soak up the local music culture during your stay.
Delicious Dining, Cafés & Tea Rooms
Offering an excellent variety of places to eat and drink, perfect for every taste and occasion. Across the bay, visitors can enjoy everything from award-winning seafood restaurants and cosy traditional pubs to relaxed beachfront cafés and charming tea rooms. Fresh, locally caught seafood is a highlight thanks to the area’s fishing heritage, especially around the harbours where you can dine with beautiful sea views.
You’ll also find welcoming cafés serving great coffee, homemade cakes, and light lunches, alongside classic English tea rooms where you can indulge in afternoon tea with scones, jam, and cream.
Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience, a casual seaside bite, or a peaceful cream tea during a day of exploring, the Riviera’s diverse food scene offers something for everyone to enjoy.
