An Honest Local’s Guide to England’s Riviera
Is Torquay Worth Visiting?
Absolutely.
Torquay is one of the UK’s most popular seaside destinations for good reason. With beautiful beaches, palm-lined promenades, coastal walks, watersports, family attractions, excellent restaurants and easy access to Dartmoor National Park, there is something for almost everyone.
It isn’t perfect. Like many coastal towns, Torquay has its challenges. But having lived here for most of my life, I can honestly say that the things that keep people returning far outweigh the negatives.
Why Trust This Torquay Guide?
My husband and I live in Torquay.
I’ve lived here on and off for more than 40 years, while my husband moved here permanently in 2015. Devon wasn’t new to him, but Torquay was.
Growing up here means I’ve seen the town through good times, difficult periods and the regeneration that’s happening right now.
I know what visitors should absolutely see, what some guidebooks exaggerate and which places locals genuinely enjoy.
The biggest compliment I can give Torquay is this:
It feels like living on holiday.
That doesn’t stop me travelling the world whenever I can, but there’s always something special about coming home to the English Riviera.
Where Is Torquay?
Torquay is located on the beautiful South Devon coast and forms part of the famous English Riviera, alongside Paignton and Brixham.
The bay’s south-facing position helps create one of the mildest climates in the UK, which is why you’ll often see palm trees growing along the seafront. Summers are generally warm and pleasant, with temperatures often reaching the high teens and low twenties Celsius, making it a fantastic destination for a traditional British seaside holiday.
Is Torquay a Nice Place to Visit?
Yes, although I’d rather give an honest answer than pretend it’s perfect.
Like many British seaside towns, Torquay has experienced changes over the years.
There is a homelessness problem.
There is a drug problem.
Unfortunately, these are challenges faced by many coastal communities across the UK.
If you arrive expecting a picture-perfect town centre filled with designer shops, you may be surprised. What locals call the**”top of town”** can feel fairly quiet nowadays, with many larger retailers having moved to out-of-town retail parks.
However, I always tell visitors the same thing:
Don’t judge Torquay too quickly.
The real beauty of Torquay reveals itself as you move towards the harbour and seafront.
What Is There to Do Around Torquay Harbour?
The harbour is where Torquay really comes alive.
Recent regeneration has helped create a beautiful waterfront area with:
- Restaurants overlooking the marina
- Independent cafés
- Coastal walks
- Beautiful harbour views
- Boat trips
- Ice cream stalls
- Watersports
The walk from the harbour towards Rock Walk and the Princess Theatre is one of my favourite parts of town.
On a sunny day, there are few better places to sit with a coffee and watch the boats come and go.
What Is Abbey Sands?
Abbey Sands is Torquay’s best-known beach and the heart of the English Riviera seafront.
The beach sits directly opposite cafés, restaurants and the promenade, making it a popular choice for visitors.
One of the things I love most about Abbey Sands is spotting the local sand artist, often known as “The Sandman”, creating incredible temporary artwork on the beach.
The tide eventually washes each masterpiece away and a completely new creation appears another day.
There’s something wonderfully fitting about that.
Is Torre Abbey Worth Visiting?
Definitely.
Torre Abbey is one of Torquay’s most historic attractions and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and open green spaces.
Nearby you’ll find:
- Torre Abbey Gardens
- Torre Abbey Meadows
- Seasonal events
- Open spaces for picnics
- Family-friendly areas for games and relaxation
Being located right by the seafront makes it an easy addition to any day exploring Torquay.
Can You Walk Along Torquay Seafront?
Absolutely, and I’d highly recommend it.
Starting at the harbour, you can enjoy a lovely walk past:
- Princess Gardens
- The Princess Theatre
- Rock Walk
- Abbey Sands
- Torre Abbey
Princess Gardens is particularly attractive, with its beautiful central fountain and seasonal events.
The famous observation wheel often appears here during the holiday season and offers spectacular views across Torbay towards Brixham and Berry Head.
Which Is the Best Beach in Torquay?
Everyone has their favourite.
The obvious answer is Abbey Sands.
My answer is Meadfoot Beach.
Just a short distance around the coast from the harbour, Meadfoot feels completely different from the main beach.
At one end you’ll find fantastic rock pools that children and adults can happily explore for hours.
At the other end is a more traditional beach with charming beach huts and beautiful sea views.
It’s also one of the beaches where you’re more likely to find locals rather than tourists.
And, very importantly, there’s often an ice cream van near the rock pools.
Who doesn’t love an ice cream van?
What Are the Best Things to Do in Torquay With Children?
Torquay is brilliant for families.
Some of the most popular family attractions include:
Babbacombe Model Village
A fantastic attraction featuring miniature landscapes, buildings and scenes that delight both children and adults.
Bygones
A fascinating Victorian-themed attraction that offers a glimpse into life in years gone by.
Splashdown Quaywest & Local Swimming Facilities
Families visiting the area can find fun swimming facilities nearby, making rainy days much easier to manage.
Rock Pooling
Meadfoot Beach is one of the best places locally for discovering sea life.
Paddle Boarding
Torbay’s calm waters make it an excellent place to try paddle boarding for the first time.
Is Torquay Good for Paddle Boarding and Watersports?
Yes.
The bay offers relatively sheltered waters compared to many other parts of the coast, making it a popular location for:
- Paddle boarding
- Kayaking
- Sailing
- Swimming
- Boat trips
Early mornings can be particularly beautiful when the sea is calm and the bay is quiet.
Can You Visit Dartmoor From Torquay?
One of the best things about Torquay is that you’re not limited to beach days.
Within around 30 minutes, you can be on Dartmoor National Park enjoying completely different scenery.
One of our favourite outings is visiting Haytor Rocks.
From the top, you can enjoy stunning views stretching across Devon, from the rolling moorland landscape all the way towards the coast.
It feels like a completely different world compared to the seafront.
Where Should You Stay in Torquay?
One of the great things about Torquay is that accommodation exists for virtually every budget.
Options include:
Campsites and Caravan Parks
Perfect for families and budget-conscious travellers.
Traditional Guest Houses
Particularly around Belgrave Road and Avenue Road where many long-established guest houses continue to offer excellent hospitality.
Self-Catering Apartments
Ideal for families, couples and longer stays.
Luxury Hotels
Including famous names such as:
- The Imperial Hotel
- The Grand Hotel
Both offer beautiful coastal settings and classic English Riviera charm.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Torquay?
Torquay is at its busiest during the summer months.
However, my personal favourite periods are:
May and June
- Longer days
- Pleasant temperatures
- Fewer crowds
September
- Often lovely weather
- Quieter attractions
- Relaxed atmosphere
The English Riviera enjoys one of the mildest climates in the UK, making it an attractive destination throughout much of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions About Torquay
Is Torquay Worth Visiting?
Yes. Torquay offers beautiful beaches, coastal walks, excellent restaurants, family attractions and easy access to both the South Devon coast and Dartmoor.
What Is Torquay Famous For?
Torquay is famous for being part of the English Riviera, its palm-lined seafront, beautiful harbour, beaches and connections with Agatha Christie.
What Is the Best Beach in Torquay?
Abbey Sands is the most famous beach, but many locals would argue that Meadfoot Beach is one of Torquay’s hidden gems.
Is Torquay Good for Families?
Absolutely. Attractions such as Babbacombe Model Village, Bygones, rock pooling, beaches and watersports make it a fantastic family destination.
Can You Visit Dartmoor From Torquay?
Yes. Dartmoor National Park is easily accessible and can be reached in around 30 minutes by car.
Final Thoughts
I’ve travelled to some incredible places around the world, but there is still something special about Torquay.
Perhaps it’s the sea views. Perhaps it’s the harbour. Perhaps it’s the mix of beaches, coast, countryside and moorland all within easy reach.
Or perhaps it’s simply because it’s home.
Torquay isn’t perfect, but it’s real, it’s beautiful and, when the sun shines over the bay and the palm trees sway along the promenade, it’s very easy to understand why we proudly call it the English Riviera.