Torquay: The Complete Guide

Visiting Torquay is a delightful way to experience the beauty of South Devon’s English Riviera. This coastal town is renowned for its palm-lined promenades, striking cliff views, and elegant Victorian architecture. The seafront stretches along the scenic Tor Bay, making it ideal for leisurely walks, boat trips, and watching yachts bobbing in the marina. Whether you’re after traditional seaside fun or something more relaxing, Torquay provides a balanced escape with stunning views and fresh sea air.

There’s a lively mix of attractions for all ages in and around Torquay. Families can explore popular spots like Living Coasts, while others may enjoy spending time at Meadfoot Beach or wandering the gardens of Torre Abbey. For those keen on coastal scenery, the South West Coast Path passes right through the area, offering easy access to cliff-top rambles with incredible views over Lyme Bay. Add in a variety of cafés, tearooms, and fish and chip shops, and you’ll find it easy to fill your days.

The town also serves as a great base for exploring South Devon. Within a short drive or bus ride, you can reach places like Paignton, Babbacombe, or even Dartmoor National Park. Torquay has frequent transport links and a wide choice of accommodations, from cliff-top hotels to cosy B\&Bs. The mix of laid-back charm, natural beauty, and coastal character makes it a rewarding destination for a classic seaside visit.

History of Torquay

Torquay in Ancient and Medieval Times

The area around Torquay has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with evidence of early human activity discovered in nearby caves, particularly Kent’s Cavern, where tools and remains date back tens of thousands of years. During the Roman era, the region saw some settlement, though it remained a quiet and rural area throughout antiquity. By the time of the Domesday Book in 1086, the area was sparsely populated and primarily agricultural, with small fishing communities forming the backbone of local life.

Torquay During the 18th and 19th Centuries

Torquay began to change significantly in the 18th century, especially as the British elite began to seek out coastal towns for their supposed health benefits. The arrival of wealthy visitors spurred the town’s transformation from a modest fishing port into an emerging resort. The real boom came in the 19th century, particularly after the Napoleonic Wars, when naval officers and their families sought refuge in the mild climate. The expansion of the railways in the mid-1800s solidified Torquay’s status as a fashionable Victorian seaside resort, known for its elegant villas, gardens, and promenades.

Torquay in the 20th Century to Present Day

In the 20th century, Torquay continued to thrive as a holiday destination, especially in the interwar and post-war periods, drawing in large numbers of domestic tourists. The rise of overseas travel in the later 20th century presented challenges, but the town adapted by promoting its heritage, landscape, and ties to figures such as Agatha Christie. Today, Torquay is known for its leisure and hospitality industries, with a tourism-driven economy and an identity rooted in both its Victorian elegance and natural coastal appeal.

Visiting Torquay for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Torquay on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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1. Torquay’s Living Coasts (Closed – but still walkable)

Though the Living Coasts aquarium officially closed in 2020, its striking location at Beacon Quay still draws visitors. The waterfront promenade remains open, and the coastal scenery is spectacular, with sweeping views across Tor Bay. It’s a peaceful area for a stroll, and nearby cafés offer spots to relax while watching the boats.

In the same area, you’ll find the historic harborside with local vendors, art galleries, and frequent open-air markets. It’s an easy place to lose an afternoon, soaking in the maritime atmosphere and observing the ebb and flow of this busy seaside town.

2. Torquay Museum

Just a short walk from the town centre, Torquay Museum offers an engaging mix of natural history, local heritage, and Agatha Christie-themed exhibitions. The museum showcases over 150 years of collecting, with highlights including an ancient Egyptian mummy and the life and works of the town’s most famous literary figure.

Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00–16:00, the museum charges around £6.50 for adults and £4.50 for children. It’s an ideal stop for families, especially on rainy days, and provides a deeper context to the town’s cultural legacy.

3. Kents Cavern Prehistoric Caves

A fascinating site just under 2 km from the town centre, Kents Cavern features a network of ancient limestone caves that were once home to early humans. Guided tours lead you through well-lit chambers filled with stalactites, fossils, and Stone Age tools.

Open daily from 10:00, last tours run at 15:00 or 16:00 depending on season. Tickets are £14.50 for adults, £12.50 for seniors, and £12 for children. The site also includes woodland trails and a café, making it an all-round family-friendly experience.

4. Babbacombe Model Village

Located just northeast of the town in Babbacombe, this delightful miniature world spans 4 acres, featuring intricately designed buildings, gardens, and even functioning trains. It’s a quirky but much-loved attraction that’s been entertaining visitors for generations.

The model village is open daily, with opening times varying by season (generally 10:00–17:00 in summer). Tickets are around £14.50 for adults and £12.50 for children. Evening illuminations in the summer months offer a particularly enchanting visit.

5. Babbacombe Cliff Railway & Downs

The historic Babbacombe Cliff Railway offers a scenic and convenient way to reach Oddicombe Beach from the top of the cliff. It’s a working funicular railway dating back to 1926, offering charming vintage rides and great views over the bay.

A return ticket costs around £3.50 for adults and £2.50 for children. Nearby, Babbacombe Downs provides one of the best coastal viewpoints in Devon, with walking paths and benches to admire the panoramic scenery.

6. Bygones Victorian Museum

Located on Fore Street in Babbacombe, Bygones offers a nostalgic step back into Victorian life. Full-size replicas of period streets, shops, and rooms are packed with original artefacts. There’s also a WWI trench and a model railway exhibition upstairs.

Open daily from 10:00–16:00, entry is £13.50 for adults, £11.50 for seniors, and £9.50 for children. It’s a hidden gem that offers more than expected from the outside, appealing to all ages with its layered and immersive displays.

7. Torre Abbey and Gardens

A historic monastery turned stately home and art gallery, Torre Abbey is one of Torquay’s premier heritage sites. Visitors can explore medieval ruins, the abbey’s furnished rooms, and rotating art exhibitions. The surrounding gardens include a recreated apothecary’s garden and a glasshouse.

Open Tuesday to Sunday, typically 10:00–17:00 in summer (shorter hours off-season). Entry is £9 for adults and £4 for children. The venue also hosts outdoor theatre in summer and community art events throughout the year.

8. Cockington Country Park and Village

Just 2 km inland, the picturesque village of Cockington is set within 450 acres of landscaped parkland. The manor house, craft studios, and lakeside walks make it a lovely day trip from Torquay. Horse-drawn carriage rides and local tearooms add to the charm.

Access to the park and village is free, though parking charges apply. It’s a peaceful and timeless place where you can slow down and enjoy a quintessentially English setting just minutes from the beach.

9. Meadfoot Beach

Less crowded than Torquay’s main beaches, Meadfoot offers a more relaxed seaside experience. It’s popular with locals for swimming, kayaking, and quiet sunbathing. There’s a café at one end and great views towards Thatcher Rock and beyond.

There’s no entry fee and it’s open year-round. While there’s limited sand, the shingle beach is clean and ideal for those looking to escape the busier stretches of coastline.

10. Princess Theatre

Located on the seafront promenade, Princess Theatre is Torquay’s main venue for live entertainment. Its schedule includes touring musicals, tribute acts, comedians, and seasonal pantomimes. The setting is beautiful, especially with a pre-show sunset.

Ticket prices vary widely depending on the show, but many range between £20–£40. There’s a seafront bar with balcony seating for interval drinks, and the theatre is open for performances most evenings throughout the year.