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TORQUAY In the bay of dreams Bringing you the places, events and things to do, that locals love! About Torquay.com WATER SPORTS ARE ALL THE RAGE Water Sports Check out where the locals go to paddleboard, kayak, sail and ski Eat & Drink WHERE LOCALS GO TO ENJOY THEMSELVES START PLANNING A TRIP TO TORQUAY What to do around Torbay Torquay's Heritage Torquay has undergone significant transformations throughout its history, from a small fishing village to a thriving tourist destination with connections to significant historical events. It started some 450,000 years ago with early humans, of which artefacts were found in Kents Cavern. The eleventh-century records from the Domesday Book show no actual occupation, though it is known that Roman soldiers made visits, and there was a small Saxon settlement called 'Torre'.However, in 1196 Torre Abbey was founded here; the rest is history and much of it! Read More A Few Facts Torquay It's not uncommon for people to say, "I've been to Torquay, or Paignton or Brixham as a child, or to visit friends or pre-wedding. But there are so many facts most people don't know, such as: The oldest UK human remains found in Kent's Cavern. That Faulty Towers was based on the Gleneagles Hotel (RIP). Agatha Christie was born here, and two billion book sales later, one of the most famous authors ever! The area is a geopark with an incredible geological history, as witnessed by its cliffs and contours. There are also two other Torquays, Australia & Canada! Beaches Locals love Torquay & Torbay Ask why the M5 gets jammed in the summer and on bank holidays, heading south. Yes, some head to Cornwall, which is another hour away and nowhere near as lovely as Devon (I'm biased here). We have it all because of the sea, and 80% of people want to live next to water. We have countryside with Dartmoor on our doorstep. We have plenty of bars, restaurants and things to do (it is a tourist destination). It's warmer in winter, and the calm and quiet time, which we all need occasionally, allows time to walk the beaches, breathe the fresh air and wait for next season. To Do Holiday Rentals Cottages & Apts If you are looking for a Torquay Airbnb, cheaper and direct from managers and other more focused websites then check out these links. The companies specialise in certain aspects of the business, and holiday rentals or holiday cottages are recommended by locals. Cottages Dog Friendly Rentals With so many great beaches and walks around Torbay, then dog-friendly rentals are the perfect answer. For families and couples who don't want to leave their best friends behind then stay in a holiday cottage. Let your dog loose on the beach and in the waves! Dog Friendly Luxury Rentals Maybe you want to celebrate a birthday or a wedding anniversary, or perhaps you may just want to enjoy views or premium accommodation. Luxury rentals are often larger, too, with bigger gardens or space. This lends itself to group celebrations, too. Luxury Rentals Too much accommodation choice? Take our advice, we live here! Hotel accommodation. Easy to book Check out some of the local photos

Main Listing Pages Kents Cavern Website Previous Next Kents Cavern is a spectacular natural cave on the coast of south Devon. The cave is only a short walk from Meadfoot beach and the beautiful South West Coast Path. It is easy to access by foot, by coach and public transport and is open for organised school visits all year. Undoubtedly Kents Cavern is one of Britain's most special caves. The incredible geology and rich archaeological heritage of the cave has been astounding scientists and visitors alike for centuries. Records show the mysteries of the caves have been enticing explorers to venture into their depths since 1571. However, archaeological evidence and research reveals that people and animals have been visiting the caves for hundreds of thousands of years. The following is an extract from the Kents Caverns FAQ's page: How big is the cave? Kents Cavern’s total passage length is 934m. The visitor trail is around 33% of this. Why the name "Kents Cavern"? Kents Cavern was originally know as Kant’s Hole which derived from an old Celtic word Kant/Kantos which meant headland. Kents Cavern therefore, means ‘Hole in the Headland’. Why is the cave so protected? Kents Cavern is listed as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Scheduled Ancient Monument, and therefore has the highest level of protection, equal to sites such as Stonehenge. The cave is ‘Britain’s Oldest Home’, with human occupation stretching over half a million years and its importance in proving human antiquity is paramount. Is this a natural cave? Yes. Kents Cavern is made from Devonian limestone and was formed by rainwater seeping through tiny cracks in the rock gradually dissolving it. How old is the cave? Kents Caverns Devonian limestone rock is around 385 million years old. The cave was formed around 2.5 million years ago, through a weak acid solution in rainwater dissolving the limestone rock. What animals lived in the cave? The oldest animals that lived in Kents Cavern are cave bears which date back half a million years. Other animals that have lived in the cave are; cave lions, scimitar cats and hyenas. Remains of woolly mammoths and woolly rhino have also been found. What people lived in the cave? Humans have inhabited the caves for over half a million years. Three different species of human have occupied in the cave; Homo Heidelbergensis, Neanderthal and Homo Sapiens. Kents Cavern is the only site in the world to yield evidence from all three of these different types of humans. Do the caves ever flood? The caves do not flood, but are still affected by large amounts of rain, which increases the drips of water percolating through the limestone ceiling of the cave. Are there any more caves to be discovered? Whilst it is possible, it is highly unlikely that any more caves will be found, there is potential for further passageways to be hidden behind calcite walls, or boulder chokes. The cave was extensively surveyed in 1988 by Dr Chris Proctor. Who first discovered the caves Kents Cavern has never been lost, and has almost always been occupied. Kents Cavern is the only cave in Britain which has three different species of human dwelling in it. The Romans were possibly the first early modern people to enter the cave, evidence for this is provided by a few Roman coins found in the cave. Early modern explorers of the cave also inscribed their names and date on the walls. These inscriptions range between the sixteenth and twentieth century. The oldest inscription dates back to 1571 and was inscribed by William Petre. Tides & Weather Torquay Webcams Torquay Maps

Main Listing Pages Newton Abbot Racecourse Website Previous Next 150 years of racing excellence at Newton Abbot Racecourse On the 10 August we celebrated our 150th anniversary with a fantastic afternoon of racing action. We gave away a free goodie bag to the first 200 adults through the gates and there was a gift for the first 200 children through the gates too. Along with all the excitement of the racing, there was free face painting for children and our new children’s’ play area was open too. There has been a racecourse on the current site since 1866 when the first recorded racing took place at Newton Abbot Racecourse over the 9/10 August 1866. In the days before television and the internet, the racecourse was the biggest local attraction for miles around and often experienced crowds of up to 17,000 people, all eager to share in the excitement and pageantry of a day at the races. The racecourse has enjoyed many unique occasions over its 150th year history including the opening of the main grandstand by The Queen Mother in 1969 and on 21 May 1981, Prince Charles rode his last race at Newton Abbot on The Queen Mother’s horse Upton Grey, finishing ninth. Much to the delight of spectators, many of British horseracing’s most renowned jockeys have ridden the 1 mile, 1 furlong course at Newton Abbot. The role of honour includes 20 time champion jockey Sir AP McCoy, Richard Johnson, Richard Dunwoody and Peter Scudamore and his son Tom. Read more in our 150th anniversary book here. Fixtures ~ With 18 fixtures held throughout the season, there are plenty of opportunities for you to enjoy an action-packed day of horseracing at Newton Abbot Racecourse. 2017 Fixture Dates ~ Our 2017 fixture dates are now available. Be sure to put the dates in your diary for 2017. Tickets for next season are not yet on sale so keep a look out for more updates on when they go on sale. ** NEXT RACE DAY ~ SEASON OPENER ** Tuesday 4th April 2017 Tides & Weather Torquay Webcams Torquay Maps

Main Listing Pages Pirates Bay Adventure Golf Website Previous Next Fun for all the family! Birthdays ~ Kids and adults love our course, so why not bring your party to Pirates Bay for a fun filled birthday bash! Corporate ~ Pirates Bay is the perfect venue for your works night out! Challenge your work colleagues on our Pirate themed 18 hole adventure golf course. Dodge cannonballs and evade thieving pirates as you navigate the lush carpeted greens, sink your ball but don't sink your ship! Tides & Weather Torquay Webcams Torquay Maps

Main Listing Pages Torbay Velopark Website Previous Next Torbay Velopark - Paignton A Cycling and Multisport Complex The circuit is the only outdoor closed road circuit in Devon and Cornwall and can accommodate both amateur and professional cycling and also a range of other sporting activities. There are three different distance options that the Velopark offers; Whole Track: 1.5km - 2.1.0km and 3.0.5km. British Cycling provided match funding to Torbay Council to help fund the creation of an outdoor velopark. Torbay Council made a decision during a Council meeting in May of this year to build these facilities and to match fund the remaining 50% of the cost - around £800k. Alternative activities include athletics, jogging, nordic walking, in line skating and a range of fitness activities for people with disabilities. The Park offers a dog-free activity area that includes changing and toilet facilities, bike and helmet hire, bike storage, an office and a rest area. Link: http://www.torbay.gov.uk/index/yourbay/sports/sportsfacilities/velopark.htm Tides & Weather Torquay Webcams Torquay Maps

Main Listing Pages Britannia Royal Naval College Website Previous Next Guided Public and Private Tours of Britannia Royal Naval College are available throughout the year. Public Tours generally take place on a Monday afternoon, including a Wednesday afternoon during the high season. British Royal Naval College should be a key ingredient to any visit to the West Country. Tours of this iconic building will offer an informative narrative allowing you to appreciate the rich history, role and relevance of this building and the naval training conducted here today, providing you with a quality, value for money, informative visit. Public Tours start from a convenient pick-up point in Dartmouth town. In a manageable group size, you will be taken to the College by coach for a walking tour, which lasts approximately 2 ¼ hours. To avoid disappointment advance booking is recommended. Britannia Royal Naval College is a working military establishment and photographic identification (photocopies not permitted) is required for access. Private Tours are of a more bespoke nature. Preferential rates are awarded to veteran groups, educational establishments and youth groups. Speak direct with the Britannia Association Office (01803 677565) to discuss your groups’ requirements and appropriate tariff. Tides & Weather Torquay Webcams Torquay Maps

Main Listing Pages Paignton Beach Website Previous Next Paignton Beach is one of the safest and gently sloping beaches in the bay. At high spring tides and in stormy weather its worth watching the breakers roll in and wash against Paignton pier, storming up to the beach head. Most times however its calm and collected with plenty of soft sand at high tide. Low tide, especially a spring tide, you may be able to walk around into Paignton harbour. At these times and in the summer you can see hundreds of people playing in the water or digging sandcastles. The expanse of beach running from Paignton Harbour, under the Pier, past the Redcliffe Hotel and onto Preston sands, is well worth a walk and paddle the whole way! Just behind the beach is the local Vue Cinema and a number of restaurants and shops down Torbay Road, which in its heydey of the late 60's and early 70's was one of the busiest streets in the UK. Type - Sand Access - Easy Disabled - Easy access Bus No - All services to Paignton Bus Station Facilities - Ample parking near Paignton beach, dogs banned in summer, swimming, safe with care, warning flags in operation, life saving equipment, first aid post, cafe / refreshments, restaurant, beach shop, deck chair / sun bed hire, public telephone, toilets near Paignton beach. Tides & Weather Torquay Webcams Torquay Maps

Main Listing Pages Princess Theatre Website Previous Next The theatre is a touring house and shows a variety of productions including opera, ballet, concerts, wrestling, ice shows & West End musicals and a Christmas pantomime. The theatre was built by Torbay Council as the main feature of the redevelopment of the Princess Gardens area on Torquay seafront. The theatre replaced a marquee which was erected annually to house light entertainment. Theatres in seaside resorts are traditionally known for their annual Summer Season consisting of light entertainment and family variety shows and Torquay is no exception. In the past the Princess Theatre has seen artistes such as Jim Davidson, Jethro and Jimmy Cricket making regular appearances. However Summer 2002 saw a change from the traditional line-up to a 6-week run consisting of two West End musicals Grease and Chicago. Summer 2003 saw a similar occurrence, featuring The Blues Brothers, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Boogie Nights, with musicals proving to be a popular choice for the local people of Torbay as well as the holidaymakers. Tides & Weather Torquay Webcams Torquay Maps

Main Listing Pages National Trust Properties - Devon Website Previous Next National Trust Properties - Devon A journey from wild coasts, moorland and curious historic houses to lush gardens and beaches. Roaming through open parkland, crunching through leaves in woodland or breathing in bracing sea air along the coast is sure to enliven the senses ~ the choice is yours! Yelverton, Devon, PL20 6EY The Abbey is part museum, part house, and filled with treasures such as the legendary Drake’s Drum. There’s no mistaking the magnificence of the Great Barn, which has remained virtually unchanged since it was built all those centuries ago. Sharpitor, Salcombe, Devon, TQ8 8LW Welcome to the seaside home of inventor and scientist Otto Overbeck. His gardens and house are perched high on the cliffs above Salcombe, with glorious views over the estuary and coast. Walking through the garden is like taking a trip around the world. With palm trees, banana plants, citrus and olive trees, you could easily forget for a moment where you are and expect to see a parrot flying up above. Tides & Weather Torquay Webcams Torquay Maps

Main Listing Pages Dartmouth Castle Website Previous Next Dartmouth Castle stands proudly on a picturesque promontory overlooking the River Dart estuary. Steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking coastal views, this fortified stronghold offers visitors a captivating journey through time. Originally built in the 14th century to defend against potential French invasions, Dartmouth Castle showcases an impressive combination of military architecture and natural beauty. Its strategic location allowed it to guard the entrance to the bustling port of Dartmouth, ensuring the safety of ships and trade. Visitors can explore the castle's fascinating features, including the imposing gun tower, Tudor-era artillery fortifications, and a 15th-century church. Climb to the top of the tower and be rewarded with panoramic vistas of the river, town, and rolling hills beyond. The castle's history comes to life through informative exhibits, interactive displays, and knowledgeable guides. Learn about the castle's role in various conflicts and maritime heritage, and discover tales of famous figures who have passed through its gates. Dartmouth Castle offers not only an educational experience but also a peaceful escape. Stroll along the castle's ramparts, breathe in the fresh sea air, and appreciate the stunning coastal scenery. It is an ideal spot for picnics, leisurely walks, and quiet contemplation. With its rich history, commanding presence, and breathtaking views, Dartmouth Castle is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a unique and memorable experience on the Devon coast. From Scout Point, one can enjoy panoramic views of the rugged coast, including Kingswear and the Mewstone, an outcrop of rocks that attracts seabirds and seals. Tides & Weather Torquay Webcams Torquay Maps

Main Listing Pages Oldway Mansion Website Previous Next Around 1871 the Fernham estate in Paignton was purchased by Isaac Merritt Singer, the founder of the Singer Sewing Machine Company. The old buildings on the site were demolished and he commissioned a local architect, George Soudon Bridgman[1] to build a new mansion as his home. Isaac Merritt Singer died on 23 July 1875, shortly before work on the original mansion was completed. The grand staircase at Oldway Mansion with The Crowning of Josephine by Napoleon after David. Paris Eugene Singer, Isaac Singer's third son, supervised the alterations at Oldway Mansion between 1904 and 1907. The rebuilding work was modelled on the Palace of Versailles, and the eastern elevation of the building was inspired by the Place de la Concorde in Paris. The interior of the building is noted for its grand staircase made from marble and balusters of bronze. The ceiling of the staircase is decorated with an ornate painting based on an original design for the Palace of Versailles by the French painter and architect Joseph Lebrun. The ceiling is a replica painted by Carl Rossner. Above the grand staircase there is a reproduction of the first version of Jacques-Louis David's painting The Crowning of Josephine by Napoleon. The original was purchased by Paris Singer in the late 19th century. The painting was sold to the French government in 1946 and now hangs in the Palace of Versailles. The reproduction at the mansion, which is in the same place as the original, is a colour photocopy and was unveiled in 1995. The gallery on the first floor is a reproduction of the Hall of Mirrors in Versailles, and is floored in parquet. The gallery leads into the ballroom, which contains walls of gilt panelling and mirrors. Above the fireplace there is an oil painting of Louis of Bourbon dating from 1717. Oldway Mansion is set in 17 acres (69,000 m2) of gardens, which are laid out on an Italian theme by the French landscape gardener Achille Duchesne. Beneath the eastern elevation of the building is the maze, which consists of dwarf box hedging and flower beds. To the south of the mansion there is the grotto garden where a waterfall passes over a rocky cave into a pool below. The grounds of the mansion contain many sub-tropical plants and shrubs. The eastern and northern elevations of Oldway Mansion Opposite the main entrance to the mansion is a large round building known as The Rotunda. This was built in 1873, and was used originally as a horse riding pavilion and exercise area. Isaac Merritt Singer gave this building the nickname of "The Wigwam". Tides & Weather Torquay Webcams Torquay Maps

Main Listing Pages Torquay United Indoor Bowling Club Website Previous Next Torquay United Indoor Bowling Club is always pleased to welcome new members whether beginners or experienced players. We are a friendly club, with around 250 members who actually own the club. It is run through a dedicated management and general committee, plus a social committee that make sure that there are activities for all. Our membership covers all skill ranges, from complete beginners to established international players. The Club is open all twelve months of the year, but the bowls programme is reduced during the summer months as many people play for outdoor clubs. With plenty of rink space available during the summer months it is an ideal time to give indoor bowling a try with a view to continuing and getting more involved in the Winter Season which starts in October. Indoor bowls is a very social game providing the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life, a game at which ladies play on equal terms with men, and the less able bodied can compete with the more athletic. We see ourselves as a very friendly club actively encouraging every member to develop their bowling skills by playing friendly, and league, matches against other bowls clubs around Devon. Opportunities exist, whatever your ability, to play against touring sides and to take part in our internal mixed, ladies and men’s leagues. If you feel you would like to take up a new challenge please contact us and we can arrange free taster sessions. If you then get bitten by the bowls bug, coaching is available by qualified coaches or by some of our more experienced bowls players who are willing to help all bowlers improve their techniques. Tides & Weather Torquay Webcams Torquay Maps