Explore The English Riviera
As it has been known as a family friendly holiday resort since Victorian times, it is no suprise that the English Riviera remains one of the most popular holiday destinations in the UK.
With a stunning coastline, award-winning beaches, a wealth of visitor attractions and some great value accommodation, the English Riviera has all the ingredients for a fabulous holiday, any time of year. Comprising of the towns of Brixham, Torquay and Paignton, as well as the smaller areas of Babbacombe and Cockington, the English Riviera has everything on your doorstep – regardless of what your interests may be
Blue Flag Beaches and a UNESCO Geopark
Torquay offers nostalgic Devon holidays with a contemporary twist. Fringed by palm trees and boasting a number of award-winning and dog friendly beaches, Torquay has all the necessary ingredients for a traditional beach holiday for all the family.
If you want something a little out of the ordinary, then why not experience the English Riviera Geopark, formed over a staggering 400 million years? This stretch of stunning coastline is recognised by UNESCO as a Global Geopark, and here you can not only get to grips with a unique environment, but also enjoy a host of unusual sporting events that have everything from gentle challenges for beginners to greater hurdles for the more hardcore contingent.
Our very special Geoplay Park is a family-friendly location that has been specifically designed to introduce children of all ages to the English Riviera’s fascinating geological history. Find out where the dinosaurs roamed and how our ancient ancestors lived thousands of years ago!
Family friendly fun
Alternatively, you could take a trip to Babbacombe Bay. If you want beautiful vistas and stunning panoramas, Babbacombe Bay has the highest cliff-top promenade in England, offering stunning views of South Devon. But if you’d rather immerse yourself in what the coastline has to offer, you can learn to scuba dive or just keep an eye out for the seals and dolphins that are frequent visitors to these shores.
Nearby Paignton is famous for its zoo, but there are other things to be enjoyed by all the family. With a number of safe and award-winning beaches in the area, kids can enjoy the educational and fascinating aspects of rock-pooling and crabbing. There’s even a Seashore Centre on Goodrington Sands for those who want to learn a bit more about what they’ve caught. If it's a nautical experience you're after, then head to the harbour town of Brixham and see the life-size replica of the Golden Hind or stroll along the breathtaking Berry Head peninsula.
Busy days and entertaining nights
But it’s not all days out in Devon. Torquay, Paignton and Brixham have some fantastic nightspots, bars and restaurants. Whether you’re after a few drinks and a bit of a boogie or the full fine-dining experience, the local clubs, pubs and restaurants are sure to have just what you’re looking for.
With so much to do and see, you want the best accommodation in Devon for your needs and your budget. Thankfully, there are plenty of places to stay in Torquay, Paignton and Brixham ranging from luxury hotels to family-friendly B&Bs. But they all have that warm, West Country welcome in common, giving you that ‘home from home’ feeling. If you want to tie in what you want to do with where you want to stay, check out our interactive Devon map or simply browse this website for further information.
More Information
To find out more about The English Riviera, please visit our partner site: www.englishriviera.co.uk.
English Riviera Geopark
The English Riviera Geopark is a great way to explore and enjoy this area of Devon…
Torquay
Explore the English Riviera with a visit to Torquay
Paignton
Paignton is a traditional seaside resort, with a pier, beautiful beaches and…
Brixham
With a host of museums and coastal walks, including parts of the South West Coast…
Our Highlights...
English Riviera Events
Bay Of Lights
Free Event: The Bay of Lights Illumination Trail returns 28 November 2025 to 2 January 2026…
Bay Of Lights - Ice Rink
We're thrilled to introduce a dazzling new addition to this year's Bay of Lights…
Capturing Moments in Time — Works of Jo McChesney
Artizan Printmaking & Sculpture Gallery is delighted to welcome Leicestershire-based artist Jo…
Christmas Illuminations
Visit Babbacombe Model Village this Christmas and enjoy festive scenes during the day & night…
English Riviera Winter Exhibition
We are delighted to announce the return of the English Riviera Winter Open Exhibition, ushering in…
Father and Mother Christmas Festive Experience
Celebrate Christmas at Torre Abbey with Father and Mother Christmas We are delighted to announce the…
Santa's Grotto
It's that magical time of year again. This Christmas, Fleet Walk Santa's Grotto is all about…
Torre Abbey Christmas Market - Bay Of Lights
28 November to 21 December 2025 Monday to Thursday: 3pm to 9:30pm | Friday & Saturday: 11am to…
Christmas PARTYTIME
The countdown to Christmas starts here – with the biggest, brightest, most laughter-filled party in…
Comedy, Chaos & Christmas – Four Forty Theatre's Festive Double Bill
A Festive Four Forty Double Bill – One Night Only! Get ready for a night of laughter, Shakespearean…
JIM DAVIDSON - Jim's Christmas Cracker
Grab your baubles and stuff your stockings because Jim Davidson OBE is back and naughtier than ever!…
Quaywest Christmas Market
We are excited to be bringing the first of what we hope will be a number of fun events that will…
Diva Of The Decades
Welcome ladies to the electrifying world of Diva of the Decades! Embark on a sensational journey…
Jackie Oates & John Spiers
Multi award-winning contemporary folk artists Jackie Oates and John Spiers meld together their…
CHRISTMAS The Candlelight Concert
Experience the Enchantment of ‘Christmas - The Candlelight Concert’ in an Unforgettable…
New Years Eve
Welcome in the New Year at The Headland Hotel, Torquay with delicious food, incredible selection of…
New Year’s Eve Gatsby Rave at Rock House Mansion!
Age Restrictions: 21 Last Entry: 8pm Set within the stunning former home of famed author Rudyard…
Historical Cave Graffiti at Kents Cavern
Be a part of this exclusive event looking at historical graffiti inside Kents Cavern The Raking…
TEASE
Step into the World of "Tease" – the ultimate burlesque and cabaret experience where…
Psychic Sally
The nation's favourite psychic is back on tour! Sally has been wowing theatre audiences young…