Things to do in Torquay

Nestled in the glorious UNESCO English Riviera Global Geopark, Torquay is a haven for families looking for a fun filled experience, couples looking for romance and singles looking to explore and find adventure. With its pretty seafront, stylish marina and meandering beaches there is plenty to explore for all who visit Torquay.

If you’re seeking exploration and adventure on your trip why not start with a walk to get you going. Take a leisurely stroll along the historic Torquay pier and palm tree lined promenade, the pier built in 1890 was a favourite of Agatha Christie who roller skated here in her youth, now you can stroll along it and enjoy the sea views and watch the comings and goings in the adjacent marina. If you fancy something a little more challenging why not jump onto the South West Coast Path, for one of Devon’s finest seaside walks stretching right around the bay to PaigntonBrixham and beyond. Or perhaps you prefer a foodie jaunt, get set for a walk on the Seafood Coast but be prepared for a tough walk back as you fill up on delicious seafood along the route. Or soak in some literary insight on the Agatha Christie Mile, a route of 12 stops following in the crime queen’s footsteps.

If you’re looking for something a little more active, why not try one of the range of water sports available. Torbay is the perfect environment for water sports where you can try your hand at water-skiing, windsurfing, diving, sailing and kayaking. For younger guests, pedalos and canoes are available for hire from stores on the seafront. Boats for fishing can also be hired from harbours and local river areas. If you’re looking for a real challenge there is even a four-mile swim across the bay from Meadfoot to Brixham. Other popular activities include tennis, squash, badminton, pitch and putt, bowling greens and ten pin bowling.

Torquay’s most famous resident was of course, Agatha Christie and the town embraces their love for all things Agatha with a range of events and attractions available throughout the town. Every year around her birthday on 15th September, the International Agatha Christie Festival takes place. Take a wander through history with the Agatha Christie Mile taking in some of the locations that inspired murder scenes in her books and places that the writer enjoyed visiting in her youth. Or if you fancy a day out, hop on the steam train to Kingswear then take a peaceful riverboat ride to Christie’s residence Greenway.

If you are looking for more traditional seaside activities head to one of Torbay’s beautiful beaches. Several of Torquay’s beaches have been voted one of the best beaches in the country. For a family friendly beach outing head to Oddicombe Beach in Babbacombe, a dog-free beach with cafes, a beach shop and sunbed hire available. Or head to Torre Abbey Sands for an easily accessible beach experience with easy access for wheelchairs, safe swimming and deck chair hire. If you want to take your four-legged friends with you then be sure to visit dog-friendly beaches Broadsands and Meadfoot beach. For a quieter beach experience try Anstey’s Cove or Hollicombe Beach.

So be it a traditional seaside holiday or an adventure trip, Torquay is sure to charm you.

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