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Torquay

Welcome to Vane Tower

5
Bedrooms
|
10
Guests
|
4
Bathrooms
|

Perched above Torbay in the heart of Torquay, sits the glorious Vane Tower which originally formed part of a larger villa called Villa Lugano, who's design was inspired by a villa that was built on shores of the stunning Lake Lugano in Italy. Offering panoramic 360-degree views of the ocean and and the rolling hills of Dartmoor. A six-person hot tub, elegant gardens, and a sun-soaked terrace for alfresco dining. With its blend of coastal charm and modern luxury, this five-bedroom sanctuary is perfect for families or groups up to ten, making it the perfect base for families or groups to explore beaches, coastal walks, and the lively attractions of the English Riviera.

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Availability
Arrival
Available
Departure
Unavailable
Selected
Guests
Max Adults:
10
Max Children:
9
Max Infants:
1
(Sleeps in a cot)
Note: See reduced occupancy listing Vane Hall for 8
Maximum number of adults and children is 10
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Why Finest Stays love this

Let me entertain you

Entertaining at Vane Tower is a dream, perfect for hosting unforgettable gatherings.

Stunning interior

Beautifully curated and designed with a luxury Californian vibe

Privacy and prestige

Perched above the beautiful English Riviera feel like the king in the castle in this luxury house

Woofers very welcome

Yes they can come too to enjoy all the beautiful coastal walks

Glorious panoramic views

Stop and stare at that breathtaking view and everchanging view of the glittering water and rolling hills beyond

Perfect for friends and family

Sumptious living areas, cosy private retreats, and views that create the ideal setting for shared memories

Sunny outdoor dining area

Toast the sunset from this prestigious spot, sharing suppers together

Vane Tower Overview

Enter a kingdom of ritzy indulgence when you take exclusive hire of Vane Tower – its elevated position provides breathtaking 360-degree panoramas, stretching across Torbay to the open sea and inland to Dartmoor. From sunrise to sunset, the views are truly something to behold, and guests can soak them in from every corner of the property – whether enjoying family breakfast on the sea-facing terrace, relaxing in the six-person hot tub after a dip in the sea, or unwinding with a good book in the light-filled conservatory.

This is a no-need-to-leave estate. But the 600-mile-long coastal path is on the doorstep – so you can jam-pack your days discovering award-winning beaches, enjoying water sports in the bay, lining up for lobster and chips, or, for a taste of the town’s rich history, visiting Torre Abbey or stepping into the life of Agatha Christie at her former holiday home. When the sun melts into the sea, Torquay’s vibrant marina, packed with stylish bars and restaurants (including a Michelin-starred restaurant well worth a visit), is just a short stroll away. By day, have salty skin and sandy toes; by night, sequinned dresses and glittering soirées.

Vane Tower's interiors bring zest to every soul who steps inside. Inspired by a villa on Lake Lugano, Italy, this home has been renovated by the Californian interior designer Bita De Laurentiis, who has given Vane Tower a colourful Italian twist – an abundance of pattern and interesting artwork await through every door. The large living and entertaining spaces mean there is plenty of room for everyone.

The dining room will be your stage for lively banquets and dinner parties – the perfect setting for a glitzy evening around the glorious Italian glass table, a piano for evening sing-songs, champagne coupes overflowing in hand. Designed with foodies in mind, the kitchen boasts a gas-fired Aga, perfect for preparing everything from hearty breakfasts to gourmet five-course dinners. This classic British kitchen is bathed in light, and at its centre sits a charming French dining table, steeped in history and dating back to World War II. Wander through to the conservatory with a glossy magazine and an iced coffee in hand, throw open the doors, and soak in the sparkling sea views and fresh sea air. This is a spot for those who wish to simply recline and relax while looking out to the water. The spacious living room has a 55” TV screen for family movie nights, so when evening settles in, the outside world fades into insignificance as you jump into the next blockbuster, bundled under blankets.

With a rich Italian flavour, this luxury self-catering home in Torquay flaunts interiors combining an eclectic fusion of classic and contemporary style to give a flamboyant finish. You will uncover six bedrooms, all promising the sweetest slumber imaginable. Three feature gloriously comfortable king-sized beds, one a beautiful queen-sized bed, one a twin bedroom, and the last a snug room with a sofa bed double. Each bed is swathed in luxury linens for ultimate nighttime indulgence. Every room is unique, but each boasts an adventurous colour palette that oozes opulence. A romantic wake-up is guaranteed, with sensational views from every corner of the house and the sea breeze wafting in through the windows.

Steeped in history the tower was built for the first American Ambassador to England and incorporates Italian architectural ideas. During World War II The Home Guard used the tower as a lookout post for enemy aircraft. The Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw visited the tower. He was the only person to have been awarded both a Nobel Prize for Literature (1925) and an Oscar (1938) for ‘Pygmalion’. The 1897 play ‘You Never Can Tell’ was set in Torquay.

Outside, spend languid time unwinding in the hot tub or take an uninterrupted leisurely lunch in the sunshine at the alfresco dining area – and become enveloped in the ever-changing elements of the sea. Vane Tower will become your oasis – one from which you won’t want to return home

Things you may like to know:

Babes in arms are very welcome. A high chair and travel cot are available.

There is secure off-road parking on the private driveway for three vehicles. There is more parking available on the nearby roads if necessary - free of charge.

This is a pet friendly holiday home.

Free Wi-fi throughout the entire property.

Please, no smoking inside the property.

Pre-arrival hot tub fill and service: Included

Private chef recommendations available

For smaller parties you can see our reduced occupancy listing here

Floorplan

Layout

Ground Floor

  • Entrance at ground level
  • Vestibule with shoe storage area
  • Dining Room with designer glass dining table for 10 and feature woodburner effect stove
  • Cloakroom with WC and basin
  • Hallway
  • Kitchen with dining table and Aga
  • Utility Room with Washing machine, Tumble dryer and additional fridge/sink and preperation area
  • Snug Lounge with Smart TV
  • Large open plan Lounge with Smart TV, Feature fireplace and panoramic views
  • Conservatory with sofas and chairs and doors onto outside terrace
  • Stairs to First Floor

First Floor

  • Kingsize bedroom with views over town
  • Bathroom with roll top bath, handheld shower, WC and basin
  • Shower Room with WC and basin
  • Superking Bedroom with fitted wardrobes and views over the town
  • Master Bedroom with wardrobes and panoramic views over the bay
  • Seperate entrance to upper Penthouse

Second Floor

  • Hallway
  • Kitchen with modern appliances and breakfast bar with views over the bay
  • Utility Room with washing machine and tumble dryer
  • Shower Room with WC and basin
  • Spacious lounge with designer sofa and seperate dining area for 4
  • Super King/Twin bedroom
  • Shower Room with WC and basin
  • Stairs up to Penthouse Tower Bedroom
  • Master Bedroom with Kingsize bed and panoramic views over the bay

Outside Area

  • Outside terrace with handmade dining table and chairs for 8 looking out over the bay
  • Bistro table and chairs for two
  • Private gardens leading with steps to Hot Tub
  • Hot Tub
  • Parking for three vehicles in private driveway
  • Outside Table and chairs in courtyard garden
  • Gas bbq

Finer Details

Appliances

  • 3 x Smart TVs
  • Amazon Echos available throughout house
  • 2 x Bluetooth speakers in kitchen
  • 2 x Dishwashers
  • 2 x Washing machines
  • 2 x Tumble dryers
  • Nespresso Coffee Machine taking original pods
  • Built in Microwave oven
  • Standalone Microwave in Penthouse
  • 3 x Fridges
  • 2 x Freezers
  • Steam iron & ironing board
  • Hairdryers in each bedroom

Facilities

  • Outdoor dining table for 8 overlooking the bay
  • Weber gas barbecue
  • Outdoor dining table and chairs in garden area
  • Luxury hot tub
  • High chair available
  • Travel Cot available

Parking

  • Parking for three vehicles in private driveway
  • Road Parking opposite property

FAQs

Sleeps

10

Beds

  • 2 x King
  • 2 x Superking
  • 1 x Super King/Twin

Changeover Day

Friday for peak periods, flexibility at other times and for short breaks

Arrival and Departure

Arrival from 4:00pm, departure by 10am

Coffee Machine

Nespresso Original Machine

Wifi Speed

Upload Speed: 10 MBps
Download Speed: 38 Mbps
Last checked on : Jan 25

Bed Linen

High quality bed linen supplied and changed weekly

Towels

Each guest has one hand towel and one bath sheet

Dog Friendly

This property will allow up to two well behaved dogs - additional charges will apply

Mobile Reception

Click here for information

EV Charging Locations

Click here for information

Additional Information

  • Outdoor hot tub
  • High chair and travel cot available
  • Hair dryers available in each room
  • Steam iron and ironing board available
  • Private parking for up to 3 vehicles
  • Private outside terrace and gardens with dining table and chairs for eight and BBQ
  • Please note that the hot tub will still be heating the evening of your arrival but should be fully up to temperature the following morning
We provide a complimentary starter supply of essentials including toilet rolls, washing-up liquid and hand soap to help you settle in. If you’re staying longer than a few days, or prefer to have extras to hand, we recommend bringing along additional supplies for your self-catering stay.

Please note for smaller parties a reduced occupancy for 6 is available here and The Lookout is available for 4 persons here

If you’d like to check any specific information that isn't mentioned in our descriptions, please call us and speak to one of our Holiday Consultants or see our FAQ's page.

Parking Information

There is off road parking for 2 - 3 cars on the driveway.

Make An Enquiry

Vane Tower Location

Perfect for a romantic escape or a family seaside holiday, Torquay really has something for everyone but when you can also stay in a luxury holiday home in Torquay, we’re sure it’s the icing on the cake! Torquay and the neighbouring towns of Brixham and Paignton have been known as The English Riviera since Victorian times when the elite used to visit and compare its mild climate and swaying palms to that of the French Riviera. Explore the stunning coastline dotted with pretty coves and beautiful beaches. Delve deep into the hinterland of the South Devon countryside with its charming market towns of Kingsbridge, Totnes and Dartmouth, discover country houses and excellent walks. Water sports in Torquay are always popular so book yourself a boat trip, rib ride or hire out some kayaks or paddle boards. You can even go on a dolphin safari!

Why book with us

Truly Personal

From your first enquiry to check-out, you’ll deal with real people who care about your stay. No call centres here.

Local Experts

We live and breathe Devon, with insider knowledge of hidden gems. Follow our weekend highlights on Instagram for inspiration and a taste of local life.

Competitive Prices

Book direct for the best rates, with no added commission or surprise charges that online booking channels love to sneak in.

Handpicked Homes

Every property is personally picked by real humans with exceptional taste, so your stay lives up to your expectations.

Availability
Arrival
Available
Departure
Unavailable
Selected
Guests
Max Adults:
10
Max Children:
9
Max Infants:
1
(Sleeps in a cot)
Note: See reduced occupancy listing Vane Hall for 8
Maximum number of adults and children is 10
Previous
Next
Select an arrival day to begin
Please select a departure day.
Select a new arrival date
Loading Getting availability
 
Summary
Nights
From
To
For
Total Cost (inc booking fee)
Sorry, but your searched dates are not available for this property
Get in touch today | Finest Stays

Get in touch

Our Finest Stays specialists are available everyday to answer all your booking enquiries.

Call
We had a wonderful stay at Vane Tower - it is a beautiful old home perfectly represented in the photos. The view was incredible and there was plenty of space for our group to come together in the main spaces and not feel crowded. Communication with the host was excellent. I would recommend this home to anyone with a larger group wanting to stay in Torquay.
Ms Robinson
September 2026
We had a wonderful stay in Vane Tower, thank you. I give five stars for location, comfort, facilities, cleanliness and helpful agents. The hot tub was enjoyed by us as well.
Ms Cottignies
November 2025
Had a fantastic week away, the house was amazing and blew us away. The views were incredible! Check in was easy and lots of communication prior when answering any queries or whilst we were at the house. Highly recommend and would love to visit again !
Mr Jackson
October 2025
We had a lovely week at Vane Hall. The property was spacious and very stylish inside, with everything we needed for a comfortable family stay. The views over Torbay were absolutely amazing, and the location was perfect for exploring Torquay. Highly recommend!
Mr Martin
September 2025
We had a wonderful stay thank you! Our meal with Nick and Oleeta was fabulous, food was amazing, great service and they left the kitchen spotless. Strongly recommend. Many thanks for your help, we had a wonderful stay!
A. Nicholson
May 2025
Clearly a marvellous and unique building and with good support from Finest Stays
Mr Roberts
March 2025

Explore Torquay

Events

Events in Torquay The English Riviera is not only popular for its beautiful coastline and warm hospitality, but for a vibrant calendar of entertainment and events that attract locals and holidaymakers alike. Throughout the year there are festivals, sporting events, food celebrations and family entertainment that add another dimension to your South Devon visit. So, whether you're planning a spring getaway, a summer holiday or an autumn escape, there's almost always something happening around Torquay's famous harbour, beaches and waterfront. What's on in spring in Torquay? Spring is one of the best times of the year to visit South Devon, as the weather warms up, the flowers come out and the first of the year’s big events get into full swing.  English Riviera Airshow Usually held in May, the English Riviera Airshow is a three-day spectacle featuring RAF displays, historic aircraft, aerobatic teams and family entertainment over Tor Bay. In the skies iconic displays include the Red Arrows, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, and the Typhoon team, while on the ground there's typically an Armed Force Village, fairground, food and drink traders, stall holders, plus a range of activities and live entertainment. It's a great day out for all ages. English Riviera Walking Festival Walking is one of the most popular activities in South Devon, with picturesque trails in abundance, not least along the magnificent South West Coast Path. It's therefore fitting that there's an English Riviera Walking Festival, focused on the towns of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham. The Walking Festival offers guided routes for every ability, ranging from gentle coastal strolls to longer countryside hikes, often accompanied by local historians, geologists and wildlife experts. Markets and artisan events Throughout the year there are different markets along the waterfront and surrounding areas spanning a variety of events from arts and crafts to crepes and clothing. There's the Torquay International Market for global street food, crafts and clothing, a regular Street and Craft Market, and artisan markets at Cockington Court Craft Centre. What's on in summer in Torquay? Summer is the busiest season in South Devon, when schools are out and the weather often reaches Mediterranean levels of sunshine, accompanied by frequent events to help you make the most of your visit. Torbay Royal Regatta Dating back to a yacht race in 1811, the Torbay Royal Regatta has become a central feature of summer in this seaside town, celebrating Torquay's maritime heritage with sailing competitions, rowing races, onshore entertainment and family activities around the harbour. Whether you're taking part or simply watching from the marina, it's one of the highlights of the summer calendar. Anderton and Rowlands Funfair A long-standing tradition on Torre Abbey Meadows, this travelling funfair brings classic rides, games and family entertainment to Torquay during the summer months. Expect everything from dodgems and trampolines to candy floss and traditional attractions. Bay Brass Concerts Making excellent use of the curated outside spaces in Torquay, throughout the summer, brass bands perform regular concerts in Princess Gardens on the seafront for a traditional seaside atmosphere that's perfect for an evening stroll or picnic overlooking the bay. Torquay Pride Celebrating diversity and inclusion, Torquay Pride is an unequivocally joyful event that celebrates the community across Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham. People gather, march, dance, and celebrate together with plenty of entertainment, from a Market Village to plenty of performances.  Electric Bay Festival Held each summer at Torre Abbey Meadows, the Electric Bay Festival is an annual open-air electronic dance music festival that began in 2022 and quickly became a popular three-day event featuring DJs and live acts spanning house, techno, drum and bass, indie rock, and garage. Riviera Tribute Festival At Torbay Showground, the Riviera Tribute Festival is an energising day of music and family-friendly fun that exemplifies summer vibes. Usually held in August, it features food and drink, popular artists, and crowd-pleasing anthems so you can dance the day away. What's on in autumn in Torquay? Autumn is actually one of our favourite times of the year, combining coastal scenery, the glow of the changing seasons, and enjoying some of Torquay's best cultural events as well. International Agatha Christie Festival Born in Torquay, Agatha Christie is celebrated in this part of the world in lots of different ways, one of which is the annual International Agatha Christie Festival. Featuring talks, performances, guided walks, literary discussions and themed events, it's a chance to explore locations connected with the famous author while enjoying exhibitions and activities inspired by her famous novels. The International English Riviera Film Festival  The International English Riviera Film Festival is an annual event celebrating and promoting filmmaking amidst the beauty of the South West, in a showcase of talent from around the world. Set at venues across Torbay it's a vibrant celebration of storytelling and artistry, where diverse voices and visions come to life. England's Seafood Feast A two-week celebration of the UK's most prized daily catches, the historic fishing towns of Brixham, Paignton, and Torquay are the perfect place for England's Seafood FEAST culinary festival. Enjoy cooking demonstrations, seafood experiences, harbour events and opportunities to meet local fishermen. It's a foodie favourite. Torbay Half Marathon & 10K For those looking for a more active holiday experience, the Torbay Half Marathon and 10K is one of the South West’s most scenic running routes, inviting you to choose from two distances, raise money for charity, and get a tour of the English Riviera in the process. Cockington Court Apple Day A free autumn festival, Cockington Court Apple Day is a wholesome fete at Cockington Court, where the whole family can enjoy seasonal entertainment. A shuttle bus runs from the Strand in Torquay, or you can make your own way, discovering activities, food and drink that celebrates the harvest time of year.    Babbacombe Model Village Halloween Bringing the magic of Halloween to the delightful Babbacombe Model Village. As darkness falls the tiny town becomes a world of spine-tingling surprises with spooky scenes and seasonal entertainment that fright and delight adults and children alike.   Dartmouth Food Festival Dartmouth Food Festival is one of the most popular events in the South Hams. Held in nearby Dartmouth, it features three days of fabulous food, world-class chefs, and the finest produce from Devon’s coast and countryside. Celebrating Devon's culinary heritage, it's also a chance to explore Dartmouth itself. Illuminate the Night At Torbay Showground, Illuminate The Night is an evening of light, energy, and entertainment, culminating in a superb fireworks display. The occasion typically features a funfair, street food, and entertainment, and is a fantastic opportunity to entertain the whole family. What's on in winter in Torquay? Winter has its own charm in South Devon, with seasonal magic spanning the coastline, leading up to festivities around Christmas and New Year. From quieter days to celebratory ones, Torquay continues to offer opportunities to get involved.  Bay of Lights Illumination Trail A sparkling way to celebrate the season, the Bay of Lights Illumination Trail is a 1.5-mile free winter light festival on the English Riviera. Featuring large-scale interactive light installations, digital light shows, festive music, and glowing sea creatures, it stretches from the historic Torre Abbey along the seafront to Torquay Harbour. Bay of Lights Ice Skating Rink An all-weather rink in Abbey Park, the Bay of Lights Ice Skating Rink typically operates from December to January featuring 45-minute sessions, a sparkling canopy for evening skating, festive food stalls, and dedicated sessions for parents and toddlers. Torre Abbey WinterFest A popular festive craft market, Torre Abbey WinterFest typically features local artisans, live music, mulled wine, and family-friendly activities. Enjoy the atmosphere, sample local fare, and get a little present inspiration at the same time. You might even meet Father Christmas. Carols in the Cave Kents Cavern Prehistoric Caves is one of Torquay's most unique attractions, and at Christmas time it becomes even more magical with Carols in the Cave. An enchanting Christmas event, it promises an atmospheric evening of festive cheer, mulled wine and merriment, in a unique, candlelit underground concert. Pantomimes at the theatre Panto is a seasonal highlight wherever you are in the UK, and Torquay likes to do it as well as anyone else. At the Princess Theatre, each year brings a new entertainment offering with the most popular touring productions coming to town. In addition, there's Babbacombe Theatre, which has been part of the Bay's tourism industry since the 1930s. Paignton Lions Club Walk into the Sea An annual Boxing Day charity swim held on the Paignton seafront, the Paignton Lions Club 'Walk into the Sea' is full of good cheer, as hundreds of fundraisers don optional fancy dress and at the starter's command walk into the chilly waters of the English Channel where fun and frivolity begins. Frequently asked questions What is the biggest annual event in Torquay? The English Riviera Airshow is widely considered one of Torquay's largest annual events, attracting thousands of visitors with spectacular flying displays and free seafront entertainment. That said, Torbay Royal Regatta can also give it a run for its money.  When is the best time to visit Torquay for festivals? Late spring through to early autumn offers the busiest programme of festivals and outdoor events, although Christmas is an equally rewarding time to visit. Are Torquay events family-friendly? Yes. The majority of the annual events in Torquay include children's entertainment and activities suitable for all ages. Do I need tickets? Many of Torquay's annual festivals are free to attend and plenty don’t require prior booking, but it’s always best to check in advance just in case. Where to stay in Torquay Whether you want to get fully-immersed in local traditions, or you watch the world go by from the peace of your own balcony, Torquay offers lots to see and do on a South Devon holiday, and is a fantastic place to stay. Amongst the holiday cottages in Torquay you can stay in the heart of it all or nearby for a little more tranquility. Whether you’re on a family holiday or a romantic break, we’ve got beautiful holiday homes to choose from for every occasion.   Find a holiday cottage in Torquay

Walking & Hiking

Walking & hiking in Torquay One of the great pleasures when it comes to staying in Torquay is how quickly the landscape changes from walking beside the harbour to following a wooded path down to the beach or taking in clifftop views. You don't need to be an experienced hiker to enjoy the area; with a variety of walking routes to choose from including seafront strolls to more challenging full-day sections of the South West Coast Path. Torquay offers plenty of opportunities to slow down, breathe in the sea air and see South Devon on foot. Daddyhole Plain A classic Torquay walk between Meadfoot and the so-called 'London Bridge' rock arch, this 1.9-mile loop starts and ends at the Daddyhole Plain car park (TQ1 2LJ), taking in a combination of woodland and open coast paths for beautiful views across Tor Bay. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Meadfoot Beach, and spot the famous rock arch along the way. Photo credit: Torbay Council Find Out More Hopes Nose Just shy of four miles long, the Hope's Nose walk is a circular route from Kents Cavern car park offering you a chance to spot wildlife and take full advantage of those dramatic coastal views. Hope's Nose is a dramatic headland separating Tor Bay from Babbacombe Bay and forged of limestone . It's designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and part of the UNESCO English Riviera Geopark, featuring fossils and unique geology. It is peppered with a combination of regular paths as well as steep stony areas to contend with. If you can cope, however, the vistas are worth it. Photo credit: Easymalcs Wanderings Find Out More Babbacombe Downs to Oddicombe Beach A short walk of around two miles, strolling from Babbacombe Downs to Oddicombe Beach is worth it for the views of the dramatic red sandstone cliffs alone. Taking you down a clifftop promenade to the shore, it offers vistas across Lyme Bay and Tor Bay. At the bottom you will find Oddicombe Beach, with its colourful beach huts and cafe. You can extend the walk by heading towards Babbacombe Beach as well, and choose to return on foot or using the historic Babbacombe Cliff Railway. Photo credit: Easymalcs Wanderings Find Out More Cockington Country Park If you fancy giving the coast a break, head inland to Cockington Country Park. This pretty country park surrounds the historic village of Cockington and offers a very different walking experience from the exposed coastal paths, with five distinct walking trails through 450 acres. One of the most popular loops is a 2.2 mile circular combining the park and Manscombe Woods. Find Out More Maidencombe Circular Spanning 3.3 miles from Watcombe Beach car park, the Maidencombe Circular takes you away from the busier parts of the English Riviera, combining coast and countryside. A particularly pretty section of the South West Coast Path, it features wooded valleys, cliffs and open countryside, and offers fairly moderate walking conditions while taking in the wilder side of the landscape. Find Out More Agatha Christie Mile Agatha Christie’s life and connections with Torquay are woven into the fabric of the area, and this gentle walk is a lovely way to explore the world she knew so well. The Queen of Crime was born in Torquay in 1890, and many of her stories have been inspired by South Devon landmarks. She also famously had her holiday home at Greenway, on the banks of the River Dart. Find Out More Hidden Torquay Hidden Torquay is a circular walk from Torquay railway station that reveals a quieter and surprisingly rural side of the town, spanning 5.5 miles in total. An urban coast path walk, it delivers splendid views over the bay as you travel around town and back along the harbour. It's an excellent way to get your bearings! Find Out More Brixham to Babbacombe For those seeking a longer walk, the Brixham to Babbacombe route stretches across 13.2 miles for a bracing day out. Heading along the South West Coast Path, take your sandwiches and pass by Berry Head, as well as woodland and beaches, before continuing through Paignton and along the Torquay seafront. Beyond Torquay, the scenery becomes increasingly rural and rugged before reaching Babbacombe Downs. If that sounds appealing but you want to take a shorter route, there are plenty of sections to choose from, and you can use public transport to get back to your starting point. Find Out More Where to stay in Torquay Torquay offers a dynamic part of South Devon for a holiday, combining lots of local attractions, seasonal events, and a combination of entertainment in the buzzing town alongside beach days and coastal walks. It’s a wonderful place to stay with lots of different holiday cottages in Torquay, whether you’re on a romantic gateway or a family break. Explore holiday cottages in Torquay

Beaches

Beaches in Torquay With its palm-lined promenade, red sandstone cliffs and sparkling coastal waters, Torquay has long been one of South Devon's most popular seaside destinations. Nestled within the shelter of Tor Bay, the town has earned the nickname, the English Riviera, and amongst its many prized attractions are a host of local beaches. From peaceful coves to places to paddleboard or simply watch the sunset, Torquay has beaches for every mood, many of which are connected to the South West Coast Path, so you can combine walking and exploration with rest and relaxation. Torre Abbey Sands Perhaps Torquay's best-known beach, Torre Abbey Sands is in a prime position between the marina and Torre Abbey Meadows. At low tide, it offers a wide expanse of golden sand to explore, making it a fantastic destination for families and eager sandcastle builders. The shallow water and gentle slope into the sea make it particularly popular with children and swimmers, while the promenade offers easy access for pushchairs and wheelchairs.  The beach is overlooked by cafés, restaurants and the town's seafront, with plenty of opportunities to stop for an ice cream or enjoy lunch overlooking the bay. There's also deckchair hire and a designated windsurfing area. On a practical note, there's on street pay and display parking along Torquay Road, as well as nearby car parks, toilets, and a dog exercise area on Torre Abbey Meadows. However, dogs are not allowed on the beach from 1st May to 30th September. Maidencombe Beach Tucked beneath the wooded cliffs on the northern edge of Torquay, Maidencombe Beach feels wonderfully removed from the busier stretches of the English Riviera. This small, sheltered cove has a sand and shingle beach framed by greenery, with clear waters that make it a lovely spot for a swim on calmer days. The beach is reached via a fairly steep path and steps, but its peaceful setting makes the journey worthwhile. The South West Coast Path runs close by, so you can combine a visit with a coastal walk towards Babbacombe or Shaldon, while the village of Maidencombe offers a handful of places to stop for food and refreshments nearby. Oddicombe Beach Situated under the dramatic red cliffs of Babbacombe, Oddicombe Beach combines spectacular scenery with an innate sense of heritage - not least because you can travel to it on the Babbacombe Cliff Railway in a tradition that goes back to 1926. You can park on the street and walk down a steep road and over-sized steps to reach the shingle sands, which usually offer calm waters for swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding, thanks to the surrounding landscape. There's deckchair, boat and pedalo hire (seasonally) as well as a beach shower and toilets (also open seasonally), a cafe and beach huts. Oddicombe Beach is a unique place to spend time and is especially popular for the views across the bay. Like many beaches in the area, dogs aren't permitted from 1st May to 30th September, but there is a dog exercise area on Babbacombe Beach. Babbacombe Beach A quiet, sheltered shingle and pebble cove in Torquay, Babbacombe Beach offers a quieter alternative to some of Torquay's busier locations, sitting below Babbacombe Downs. Perfect for rock pooling and discovering the magic of marine life, the tranquil waters are also popular with scuba divers, swimmers, sailers, and anglers.  There's a small pay and display car park, as well as some free street parking close by, and you take a steep road, steps, and a slipway to reach the sand. Dogs are allowed on the beach all year round, and when it comes to food and drink the renowned Cary Arms & Spa sits right on the quayside. It's a lovely place to settle in for the day. Beacon Cove Close to Torquay Harbour, near Haldon Pier, Beacon Cove is a tiny sheltered beach that often flies under the radar of visitors. Comparatively small, it's a favourite with local swimmers, enjoying a sheltered spot, and was famously a favourite swimming spot of murder mystery writer, Agatha Christie.  Livermead Sands Livermead Sands is a quieter beach that's for those in the know, it's a pretty combination of shingle and red sand, with space for beach games and paddleboarding. It can feel a bit calmer than other parts of Torquay in the height of summer. It's also a designated waterskiing area.  Corbyn Beach Corbyn Beach is a pretty stretch of sand with excellent facilities close by and offering easy access. Flanked by colourful beach huts which are available to hire, there's also beach deckchair hire, and the Corbyn Beach Cafe is handy for refreshments including ice cream and cakes. Anstey's Cove A secluded shingle beach and a favourite among locals, Anstey's Cove is one of Torquay's hidden gems. This is very much a beach for enjoying the natural beauty of the area rather than looking for lots of provided entertainment.  It's perfect for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, and there's also the Ansteys Cove Beach Cafe alongside it, with seating and refreshments. An award-winning haven, there's rock pooling to be done and views to simply sit back and enjoy, and it welcomes dogs all year round. Meadfoot Beach A pretty walk from Torquay Harbour and you will find Meadfoot Beach - a Blue Flag beach on one of the most picturesque parts of the coastline. Framed by dramatic cliffs, it has a quieter atmosphere than Torre Abbey Sands, and is primarily shingle, with clear waters popular for swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding. It's also an excellent place to enjoy sunrise or sunset. For walkers, it sits on a two-mile loop around Daddyhole Plain, while the Meadfoot Beach Cafe close by offers a menu that ranges from hearty fare to cakes. In terms of accessibility, there are sloping paths and steps to reach the beach. There's a small car park on Meadfoot Road that's a five-minute walk away, and it's generally considered too steep for wheelchairs. There are toilets close by that are open seasonally, as well as beach hut and deckchair hire. For those with four-legged friends, dogs are not allowed on the southern part of Meadfoot Beach from 1st May to 30th September. Where to stay in Torquay Torquay has been a fashionable holiday destination for centuries, attracting visitors for its coastal wellbeing, natural beauty, and the vivacity of the seaside town. Its grand Italianate villas dating to the 1800s prompted the moniker, the 'English Riviera', and its attraction as a place to holiday in South Devon continues to this day.  For those visiting the area, there's a wide variety of holiday cottages in Torquay to choose from, whether you're looking for a group getaway with friends, a romantic retreat, or a family holiday for multiple generations. From glamorous houses to cosy cottages, sea views to places to stay right in the heart of town, there's a whole host of holiday homes to choose from. Find a holiday cottage in Torquay

 

Sauna season is back

Use code SAUNA26 when you book your South Devon stay and enjoy £26 off to put towards a local sauna session. Book by 31st December 2026. Applies to new bookings only.

 

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