How to Spend a Weekend in Torquay

Start your weekend in Torquay with a stroll around the town’s picturesque harbour. Lined with palm trees, colourful boats and waterfront restaurants, the marina is one of the most recognisable spots on the English Riviera and the perfect place to ease into holiday mode.

Spend your first evening enjoying dinner overlooking the water, where you will find everything from fresh seafood restaurants to cosy pubs and relaxed cocktail bars. As the sun begins to set, wander along the promenade and take in the sea views across Tor Bay.

If you still have energy after your journey, head to Princess Gardens for an evening walk or enjoy live entertainment at one of Torquay’s entertainment venues.

No weekend in Torquay is complete without spending time by the sea. Begin your Saturday with breakfast at one of the town’s independent cafés before heading out to explore the coastline.

A walk along the South West Coast Path is one of the best ways to experience Torquay’s scenery. The route between Torquay Harbour and Meadfoot Beach offers stunning coastal views, hidden coves and plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

For those looking to relax, Torquay’s beaches are ideal for a slower pace. Torre Abbey Sands sits close to the town centre and is perfect for families, while Meadfoot Beach offers a quieter setting surrounded by dramatic cliffs.

Visitors wanting to get out on the water can also enjoy boat trips around the bay, paddleboarding, kayaking and coastal cruises during the warmer months.

After a morning by the coast, spend the afternoon discovering some of Torquay’s best known attractions.

One of the town’s most popular landmarks is Kents Cavern, a fascinating prehistoric cave system with guided tours taking visitors deep underground through ancient rock formations. It is one of the top family attractions in Devon and a great option whatever the weather.

Literature lovers can also explore Torquay’s connection to Agatha Christie, who was born in the town. The Agatha Christie Mile takes visitors past key locations linked to the famous author, including landmarks that inspired her novels.

For a more relaxed afternoon, visit Torre Abbey, one of the best preserved medieval monasteries in the country. The abbey is home to art exhibitions, beautiful gardens and centuries of local history.

Torquay comes alive in the evening, with plenty of places to eat, drink and enjoy the atmosphere along the waterfront.

Seafood is a must during any stay on the English Riviera, with many restaurants serving locally caught fish and seasonal Devon produce. From fine dining experiences to casual harbour side meals, there are plenty of options to suit every type of visitor.

After dinner, enjoy drinks overlooking the marina or catch a show at the Princess Theatre, which regularly hosts touring productions, comedy acts and live music performances.

Before heading home, spend your final morning exploring nearby Babbacombe, one of the prettiest areas of Torquay.

Babbacombe Downs offers spectacular panoramic views across Lyme Bay and is known as England’s highest clifftop promenade. It is the perfect place for a relaxed morning walk with an ice cream or coffee in hand.

Families visiting Torquay may also want to stop at Babbacombe Model Village, a much loved attraction featuring miniature scenes, tiny villages and detailed displays that have entertained visitors for generations.

Nearby Oddicombe Beach is another hidden gem worth visiting before the journey home. Surrounded by red cliffs and accessed by a historic cliff railway, it is one of the most scenic beaches in the area.