The best way to spend a weekend in Torquay
Known as the English Riviera, Torquay is famous for its history, heritage, harbour, and hospitality, so how can you make the most of a weekend or a mid-week break in this coveted corner of the South West?
Accessible by car, train, or local ferries, and designated a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2007 for its ancient sea beds and Ice Age caves, this unique coastal town offers a wealth of entertainment for all ages and interests.
Whether you want family-friendly entertainment or a romantic weekend away, here’s our weekend guide to Torquay.
Arrive and explore Torquay
If you’re anything like us, then the first thing you want to do when you arrive somewhere new is get your bearings, and there’s no better way to do that than to head out for a stroll. Start with a walk along the harbour and marina – a sight to behold, Torquay Harbour is a well-protected yacht haven, attracting visitors from around the world. The marina can hold almost 1000 boats at any given time, flanked by cafes and shops while protected by Haldon Pier to the South and Princess Pier to the West.
A walk along the water with plenty of opportunity for a selfie is the ideal way to get to grips with your surroundings and settle in for a Torquay weekend break. Princess Pier is particularly iconic, dating to 1894, and if the weather permits Torre Abbey Sands is an inviting beach for sandcastle building and getting those toes into the sea. Continue with a meander into the town centre for plenty of opportunities for retail therapy and a bite to eat. For a spot of lunch, brunch, and bits in between Otto serves up authentic Neapolitan pizza, while Twenty1 is a hotspot for coffee, cocktails, and fabulous food to kick off a Torquay weekend break.
Afternoon activities for a weekend in Torquay
The landscape is one of the most magical parts of enjoying time in Devon, and Torquay offers not only natural beauty and fantastic walks, but also the chance to enjoy indoor entertainment that still celebrates the local surroundings should the weather refuse to play ball.
Top recommendations include a jaunt along the South West Coast Path from Torquay towards Meadfoot Beach – there’s a two-mile loop around Daddyhole Plain with views of the harbour and the bay, where you can stop for a swim in the summer. Don’t forget to pop into the Meadfoot Beach Cafe for sustenance along the way.
For indoor activities, the Kents Cavern prehistoric caves are a treat for kids of all ages. Considered one of the most important Stone Age sites in Europe, enter a labyrinth of caverns forged of 400 million-year-old rocks and spectacular stalagmites and stalactites. Another favourite is Torre Abbey – a museum of history and art in a beautiful building that was once the wealthiest English monastery, dating to 1196. Little wonder it’s become an award-winning attraction.
An evening in Torquay
After a day of exploring, a good Torquay short break guide should take you into your first evening with top recommended dinner destinations that help you make the most of your surroundings. When by the coast, seafood and waterside views are the name of the game.
For first-rate fish, the aptly named No.7 Fish Bistro overlooking the harbour is a must, serving up fresh fish and shellfish from nearby Brixham. Culinary connoisseurs will love The Elephant Restaurant, a Michelin-starred delight by the water, with a delectable tasting menu. Meanwhile, Below Decks is a welcoming favourite located on Beacon Quay and showcasing the best of local fare in a laid back environment.
Day two of your Torquay 48-hour itinerary
Day two of your Torquay 48-hour itinerary brings plenty more exploration opportunities. Perhaps spend the morning with a hike to Babbacombe Downs – the highest cliff top promenade in England, with views across to Dorset on a clear day. Babbacombe Cliff Railway is a unique way to travel to and from Oddicombe Beach in a tradition that goes back to 1926; and Babbacombe Model Village is an enchanting miniature world that captures the hearts of everyone who visits.
All of that is bound to leave you peckish, so while in Babbacombe, why not stop off at the Three Degrees West beachside cafe and bistro for a Mediterranean-inspired bite to eat? Hamiltons Club is also a firm favourite for tasty tapas just a two-minute walk from Babbacombe Theatre. Or, for something really special, pop into the Cary Arms at Babbacombe Bay for simple gastro-style dishes in a historic, seaside setting.
Sated and restored, in the afternoon the coast will no doubt be calling. Seasonal ferries and wildlife cruises are one of the most popular ways to spend a weekend in Torquay with Paignton Pleasure Cruises and the Western Lady Ferry Service providing routes between Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham. Businesses like Go Boat Trips also operate dedicated Sea-Fari cruises for wildlife spotting, seeking out seals, seabirds and dolphins.
For those with a spirit for adventure, dive right in with activities including paddle boarding, kayaking, and coasteering in the summer months, with organisations like Reach Outdoors. Then again, if the sun is shining, rest and relax at the secluded shingle beach, Anstey’s Cove (stock up on essentials at the Me & Mrs Jones Deli Cafe en-route), or under the spectacular red sandstone cliffs at Maidencombe Beach.
Last night entertainment on your Torquay short break guide
A Torquay short break guide has to end in style, so how does a sunset stroll and dinner with a view sound? Watch the sun go down at Livermead Head – famous for its dramatic cliffs, caves, and breathtaking vistas – before heading back into town.
Harbour16 restaurant, bar, and grill is a lively spot by the harbour for delectable cuisine washed down with great wine and tasty cocktails, while Ollie’s is a family-run restaurant created by a brother and sister duo, championing the wares of Dartmoor Farmers. For relaxed waterside dining, you might also like The Bay, which puts an urban twist on dishes from around the world, served alongside local brews on tap.
Looking for a Torquay weekend break? Now all you need is somewhere to stay.
