What's On in Paignton
Set in Torbay and part of the world-renowned English Riviera you will find the picturesque town of Paignton. A family favourite with a long stretch of sandy beach, colourful beach huts and a traditional pier Paignton is the perfect base to explore Devon. With a packed programme of annual events and plenty of seasonal entertainment, you are sure to find something to entertain both young and old alike.
Considered the family hub of the English Riviera, Paignton is the perfect place to bring your little ones for a fun-filled holiday, from circus performances and carnivals to the UK's longest-running children's festival you are sure to find an event to entertain the entire family.
Rich cultural history
Paignton has a rich theatrical history, with the famous Gilbert and Sullivan production of The Pirates of Penzance premiering at The Royal Bijou Theatre in 1879. The main Paignton theatre is now The Palace Theatre where you are sure to find a wide selection of entertainment from dramatic plays to playful pantos. If you visit around the 15th September, the birthday of one of Devon’s most famous residents Agatha Christie, you will also be treated to a selection of performances around the Agatha Christie Festival. Indeed, it is said that all cinemas and theatres in Christie's books were based on the Torbay Picture house that once stood in Paignton, with Seat 2 Row 2 being her favourite seat.
If your interests lean more toward the mechanical, you are sure to enjoy the array of motoring, steam and aerial events on offer throughout the summer. Home to BMAD (Bikers Make A Difference) you will often find motorbike related events around the town, often raising money for charity by exhibiting their bikes and doing bike-related activities. If you like to look skyward for your entertainment then you are sure to enjoy the annual Torbay Airshow; centred around Paignton Green with free entertainment for the whole family, as well as the aerial action there are also exhibition stands, food stalls, inflatable slides and bouncy castles; and fairground rides. If you’re more into the vintage mechanics then why not plan a visit to the fantastic Torbay Steam Fair, held annually and drawing in visitors from far and wide this three-day event is a family favourite with working steam engines, vintage cars, military displays and more it’s sure to excite any motoring enthusiast. But don’t worry there are also scores of children’s entertainment, food stalls, market stores and craft activities to keep the whole family entertained.
Great rail links
If you wish to venture further afield. Paignton has its own railway station with regular services to Torquay, Newton Abbot, Exeter and Exmouth, as well as bus and coach services; allowing you to explore such attractions as Agatha Christie’s famous residence and the rest of the breath-taking English Riviera. You’re sure to find plenty to do in Paignton and with easy connection to surrounding areas you can always find something to entertain the whole family.
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