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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 Pennywell Farm & Wildlife Centre Website Previous Next Pennywell has recently been awarded 'Best Sustainable Business' in the 2015 South Devon Tourism and Hospitality Awards. During a visit to Pennywell you will discover some of the reasons why we are proud to be a leading environmentally friendly business and hold the National Green Tourism Business Scheme Gold Award. Pennywell was also awarded Green Business of the Year 2014 in the Herald Express Business Awards. As just a part of the many things to do that Pennywell has to offer, there is a different activity, show or display every half hour. Below is just an example, times change according to weather, season etc. Piggy Cuddles are now available all day, every day! Listed below are just a few! 10am Meet your Pennywell Farmer ~ Meet your Pennywell Activity Farmer with all the friendly pets in the Pets Area 10.30am Egg Collecting ~ Off to our Funky Fowl area to see what our collection of international poultry have laid 11am Goat Milking ~ Great fun to have a go, plus you meet our very friendly milking goats 11.30am Bottle Feeding ~ Feeding the orphan lambs and goat kids is always a very special experience Henny Pennys Cafe ~ Enjoy delicious hot and cold meals, snacks, tempting cakes and devonshire cream teas in our licensed restaurant. Plenty of seating indoors and outdoors taking advantage of the spectacular views. There is a variety of adult and chid meals, vegetarian options and plenty of locally sourced produce. The Pennywell Shop ~ Everything from pocket money toys to treats and gifts. Tides & Weather Torquay Webcams Torquay Maps

Main Listing Pages Crealy Adventure Park Website Previous Next Crealy Theme Park & Resort is an award winning family Theme Park in Devon that boasts over 60 rides and attractions, with spectacular entertainment, live shows and animals galore. It’s no wonder that Crealy Theme Park & Resort has been voted as the best day out in Devon for eight years running! Our resort offers the ultimate Devon family holiday with a fantastic range of accommodation including five star luxury hot tub lodges, themed glamping tents and over 100 fully serviced camping and touring pitches, all included with what warm Devon welcome. Located just minutes off Junction 30 of the M5 Exeter and with plenty of free parking, we’ve got everything you could want from the biggest Theme Park in Devon. Tides & Weather Torquay Webcams Torquay Maps

Brixham Brixham Brixham, a coastal town within the borough of Torbay, has a rich maritime heritage and significant historical importance. As of the 2021 census, its population was 16,825. It is one of the primary centres within the borough, sharing this distinction with Paignton and Torquay. ​ The town's name, believed to stem from an early resident named Brioc combined with the Old English 'ham' for home, illustrates its historical roots. Brixham's geography is predominantly hilly, encircling a natural harbour that, beyond serving leisure crafts, anchors one of England’s most prominent commercial fishing fleets, underscoring its maritime significance. ​ Brixham’s historical narrative is marked by its division into two communities: Fishtown, by the harbour, thriving on fishing and related industries, and Cowtown, inland towards St Mary’s Square, focused on agriculture. A mere marshy lane initially linked the two. The town’s maritime importance is highlighted by the replica of Sir Francis Drake's Golden Hind, a tourist attraction anchored in the harbour. ​ The town has historical mentions dating back to the Saxon period, with its significance growing over the centuries, as documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. The former Haytor Hundred assessed Brixham’s value in the early financial records, reflecting its evolving economic stature through the centuries. ​ A pivotal historical event was William of Orange’s landing in Brixham in 1688, marking the beginning of the Glorious Revolution. This event is commemorated within the town, underscoring its role in the broader national history. ​ The town is also noted for its unusual architecture, such as the coffin-shaped house built around 1736, and significant religious sites, such as St. Mary's Church, which has a history stretching back to the Saxon era. ​ The maritime industry has been Brixham's lifeblood, evolving from a Saxon settlement to a major fishing port by the 15th and 16th centuries. Despite facing decline in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the post-WWII era saw a resurgence in Brixham's fishing industry, eventually leading it to become England's premier fishing port in 2000. ​ Educational facilities, media coverage, sports clubs, and transportation services have modernized the town while preserving its historical charm and cultural heritage. Brixham's array of festivals and events, like the Brixham Pirate Festival, BrixFest, and Fishstock Brixham, further enrich its vibrant community life. ​ Governance in Brixham operates at two levels: Brixham Town Council and the unitary authority of Torbay Council, with the town forming part of the Totnes parliamentary constituency. This dual-layer governance structure ensures local needs and issues are addressed within the broader administrative framework of Torbay. ​ Brixham’s narrative blends historical significance, maritime heritage, and community spirit, making it a distinctive part of Devon’s cultural and historical landscape.

Main Listing Pages Breakwater Beach Website Previous Next Close to the mouth of Brixham harbour is Breakwater Beach, one of the cleanest beaches on the English Riviera, South Devon’s beautiful bay. Not only is it a Blue Flag beach, but it has a Seaside Award and been recommended by the Good Beach Guide. There is disabled access with adjoining parking facilities, meaning everyone can enjoy it. Breakwater Beach is a particular favourite for scuba diving. There are a number of dive schools throughout the area and with some of the warmest and calmest waters in the country, this is the place to learn to scuba and get your open water certificate. Expect to see rare seagrass beds, seahorses, fish and even the odd shipwreck. There is also a great beach cafe on site too. Tides & Weather Torquay Webcams Torquay Maps

Main Listing Pages Oddicombe Beach Website Previous Next This is a great beach for all ages! Paddling for the young and a variety of watersports for the older and braver! Accessible via a steep road, or for the not so energetic, take the amazing Babbacombe Cliff Railway. The large beach is mainly sand, with plenty of room for sun bathing! There is a well stocked beach shop and a very popular café. Tides & Weather Torquay Webcams Torquay Maps

Main Listing Pages Babbacombe Cliff Railway Website Previous Next Planned since 1890 and finally built in 1926, the Babbacombe Cliff Railway took 2 years to construct and was the brainchild of two prominent Victorians and involved some of the biggest engineering names of the day. Surrounded by some of the most breathtaking scenery to be found in the UK, the Cliff Railway provides a vital and non-exhausting way for locals and holiday makers alike to soak up the peaceful atmosphere and take in the amazing views as they travel to and from the waters edge. The railway is now also an Approved Premises for weddings. With an extensive overhaul & refurbishment now completed, the railway is ready to serve thousands more passengers as they venture down to enjoy a day relaxing in the beautiful Devon sun. Tides & Weather Torquay Webcams Torquay Maps

Main Listing Pages Cayman Golf Website Previous Next Come and enjoy the experience of a new concept of the traditional game of pitch 'n' putt golf. Fun for all the family and golfers alike. Use unique 'Cayman' golf balls which rewards the player for accuracy rather than distance. Ideal for both families and golfers. Pay and play for healthy outdoor fun!! Cayman golf offers a reduction in land area thus being a friend to the environment by contributing to land & water conservation and to the reduction of pesticides & insecticides. Tides & Weather Torquay Webcams Torquay Maps

Main Listing Pages Buckfast Abbey Website Previous Next A Tranquil Haven ~ Nestled in the shadow of Dartmoor, in a beautiful wooded valley beside the river Dart, Buckfast Abbey offers visitors a tranquil refuge from the hectic pace of everyday life.The Abbey is a working monastery where a community of Benedictine monks live self-sufficiently, welcoming visitors from all around the world. At the heart of the site is the Abbey Church, a spiritual haven for the many thousands of visitors who come each year. There is an overwhelming sense of peace as soon as you enter the grounds with the church surrounded by gardens which in the summer come alive with colour. Within the Abbey precinct, visitors can browse in the Bookshop or visit the Monastic Shop which has an extraordinary array of products made by nuns and monks across Europe. There is also a gift shop and information point by the Westgate entrance. In the Grange Restaurant, you can relax and enjoy tea and homemade cakes or choose from a range of hot meals and light snacks which are changed daily. Escape for a while at Buckfast – worlds away from the busy rush of the everyday and just a few minutes from the A38. Tides & Weather Torquay Webcams Torquay Maps

Main Listing Pages Torquay Alpine Ski Club Website Previous Next Snowsports in the English Riviera ~ Torquay Alpine Ski Club is the place to learn to ski or snowboard in the English Riviera. Our ski slopes offer a convenient and inexpensive way to learn the basics of skiing or snowboarding, or to improve skills and generally prepare to get the most out of a winter sports holiday. We offer courses and lessons with experienced instructors and coaches to suit all abilities and ages. Tides & Weather Torquay Webcams Torquay Maps

Main Listing Pages The Willows Website Previous Next On the outskirts of Torquay town lies "The Willows Shopping Centre" Parking is free for 2 hours, allowing you plenty of time to enjoy a morning coffee or afternoon tea, as a reward after all that hard work shopping! The Willow Tree pub also provide substantial carveries! Stores and shops at the park include: ~ Marks and Spencer, Sainsburys and DFS. Adjoining 'The Willows', just a little further along the road is the 'Wren Retail Park' with more stores including, Boots, Mothercare, Next and Outfit (home to some of the UK’s top fashion brands, including Topshop, Burton, Miss Selfridge, Oasis and Wallis). Tides & Weather Torquay Webcams Torquay Maps