Things To Do
in Torquay
Torquay sits on the sunny shores of the English Riviera in Devon, a lively seaside town famed for its palm-lined promenade and sheltered beaches. With elegant Victorian architecture, a scenic harbor, and family-friendly attractions, it welcomes visitors year-round. From cliff-top walks and fossil-filled caves to charming cottages in nearby Cockington, the area blends coastal charm with a touch of inland history.
Whether you’re after a relaxed beach break or a gateway to the wider South Devon coast, Torquay offers accessible beauty and plenty of things to do.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Torquay and settle into your accommodation. Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, soaking in the coastal air. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque seafront, enjoying views of the iconic palm trees and sandy beaches.
Visit the historic Torre Abbey, where you can explore its beautiful gardens and art collections. Enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant, trying fresh seafood dishes. Spend your afternoon relaxing on the beach or indulging in some water sports.
As the sun sets, take a scenic walk along the promenade. Savor dinner at one of the many waterfront restaurants, where you can enjoy local cuisine. Finish your evening with a visit to the local pub for a pint of ale and some traditional live music.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before setting off on a hike along the South West Coast Path. The morning light casts a beautiful glow on the stunning cliffs and coastline. Breathe in the fresh Atlantic air as you marvel at the breathtaking views.
Visit the nearby village of Cockington, where you can stroll through its quaint streets and enjoy a relaxed lunch in the tea gardens. Explore the charming Cockington Court and its craft shops. Spend the afternoon visiting the local art galleries and shops.
Return to Torquay for dinner at a cozy restaurant. Enjoy a stroll through the town as it lights up at night. End your evening with a nightcap at a nearby bar, taking in the lively atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $6-12 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $70-120 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-5 |
| 🎟️Museum entry or attraction | $8-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and easy access to nature
- Family-friendly with a variety of attractions and beaches
- Compact town centre with good walkability and seafront character
- Strong seafood cuisine and Devonshire tea culture
- Can be crowded in peak summer weekends
- Some attractions and beaches have limited parking and higher seasonal pricing
- Hilly terrain in parts of town may be challenging for some visitors
- Less nightlife variety than larger cities outside Devon
Places to Visit in Torquay
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic harbor views with boats and waterfront architecture, ideal for sunrise or golden-hour shots.
Cliff-top panorama over the English Channel, offering dramatic coastal lines and sunsets.
Thatched cottages, winding lanes, and ornate gardens for postcard-perfect village photography.
Ancient caves with interesting stalactites and atmospheric lighting—great for interior photography.
Pebble beaches and rugged coastlines, ideal for seascapes and dramatic cliffside compositions.
Food in Torquay
Torquay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic pairing of scones with clotted cream and jam, traditionally enjoyed with a pot of tea at seaside cafés.
Must-Try!
A comforting baked dish of flaky fish, prawns or cod in a creamy sauce, topped with mashed potato.
A hearty, creamy soup featuring locally caught fish and shellfish, often served with crusty bread.
Traditional chips with locally sourced white fish, coated in a crisp cider batter for a Devonshire twist.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly market along Union Street offering fresh produce, bakery goods, Devon cheese, and street-food stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British etiquette applies—polite queueing and patient waiting in lines at shops, markets, and public transport.
Check for service charges in larger restaurants; otherwise, a small tip for good service is appreciated.
Be courteous on public transport and when photographing people; ask for permission in private spaces.
Respect local nature reserves and coast paths; keep dogs on leads in certain areas during nesting seasons.
Safety
Tipping in Torquay
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory. If a service charge isn’t included, 10-15% in restaurants is common; in pubs and cafes tipping is optional.
Card payments (including contactless and Apple Pay/Google Pay) are widely accepted; cash is still handy for smaller venues and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder days and blooming gardens; great for outdoor strolls and exploring gardens around the town.
Warmest months with lively beaches and busy harbourfront; expect crowds but long daylight for late strolls.
Cooling temperatures with quieter streets; coastal walks are stunning in golden light and sea spray.
Cool and breezy with shorter days; some attractions may have reduced hours, but coastal scenery has its own charm.
Torquay at Night
Hiking in Torquay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal hiking with dramatic sea views, cliffs, and coves; a highlight for walkers and nature lovers.
Moderate trail with cliff-top viewpoints and access to hidden bays.
Gentle countryside paths through woodlands and historic gardens, suitable for families.
Airports
How to reach Torquay by plane.
Approximately 25-40 miles away; good rail and road connections to Torquay; typical drive about 40-60 minutes.
About 130-150 miles away; longer drive (roughly 2.5-3 hours) but with frequent international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Torquay is popular with families due to beaches, parks, and accessible attractions.
Gentler pace in several neighborhoods with well-developed services and scenic views attract a long-stay resident crowd.
Seasonal influx from across the UK and beyond during summer months and holiday periods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Torquay’s marina and coast offer regular sailing and regatta activity.
Local clubs and village greens provide seasonal matches and social games.
Local teams and casual play along beaches and parks.
Nearby courses in the Torbay area provide coastal and inland greens.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Torquay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and restaurants offer veggie mains, salads, and dairy/eggs-based dishes; ask for bespoke vegetarian options.
Vegan dishes are commonly available in newer or modern British venues; many places can adapt recipes on request.
GF options are widely available in pubs and cafes; inform staff of GF needs and check sauces and batter ingredients.
Most venues can accommodate shellfish, dairy, or nut allergies with advance notice; always confirm ingredient lists.