Attractions and Places To See in Torbay - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Torbay blend natural beauty with historical and cultural sites across its main towns of Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham. This coastal region, often referred to as the "English Riviera," offers a diverse landscape of beaches, harbours, and dramatic headlands. Visitors can explore a variety of landmarks, from ancient caves to Victorian piers, alongside scenic walking trails. The area provides opportunities to experience maritime heritage and significant historical locations.
Best attractions and places to see in Torbay
- The most popular attractions is Brixham Harbour, a viewpoint that features one of the UK's largest fishing fleets. This working port offers a bustling fish market and numerous dining options serving fresh seafood.
- Another must-see spot is Torquay Harbour and Marina, an other man-made site. This area serves as a base for boat trips and watersports, functioning as a fully operational harbour and a central hub for the town.
- Visitors also love Berry Head Headland & Lighthouse, a historical site. This dramatic headland features a lighthouse and Napoleonic Fort, known for its rich wildlife and as home to a large guillemot colony.
- Torbay is known for its historical sites, natural features, and family-friendly attractions. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient buildings to extensive beaches and vibrant harbours.
- The attractions in Torbay are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 100 upvotes and over 40 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Torquay Harbour and Marina
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Princess Pier, Torquay
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The pier is a firm feature of the Agatha Christie Mile, for the Queen of Crime - who grew up in Torquay - regularly went roller-skating with friends here during her youth. Torquay Museum’s Agatha Christie Gallery features photographs of this period in her life.
It's also favourite among anglers, and at its far end is a great spot to catch the evening sun as it sets below the hills.
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Paignton Pier
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Goodrington Sands North Beach
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Goodrington Sands has all the normal facilities like beach huts, deck chairs, sunloungers and pedalo hire and also has beach manager supervision during the main season.
Goodrington Sands is also famous for the steam railway which runs adjacent to the sea, and can be boarded here at Goodrington Station for a journey along the picturesque South Devonshire coast line to Kingswear, where you can cross the River Dart by ferry over to Dartmouth.
Goodrington Sands also has a park with boating lake, nature reserve, go-karts and crazy golf and has a history dating back to the sixteenth century. There is also the old navel hospital from the Napoleonic war which is now a family friendly eatery pub which is part of the Brewer´s Fayre chain with plenty of outside seating taking in the breathtaking views of the bay.
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Torquay Pavilion
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Oddicombe Beach
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Anstey's Cove
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Berry Head Headland & Lighthouse
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Hopes Nose
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Brixham Harbour
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Popular around Torbay
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Tips from the Community
great beach for the dogs, parking you can follow the path along the coast
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You can park up the top and walk down or walk the coast paths as we did,ground is very uneven and rocks get slippery bench half way down if you want to sit down and look at the views
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Oddicombe beach has a long tradition: the colourful houses and terraces are evidence of the keen interest of visitors. We enjoyed the walk down - with every step you leave civilisation behind and find yourself in a natural seaside resort. At nine o'clock in the morning we saw people smiling happily after their swim in the sea.
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We were able to see dolphins at the end of the headland. A great experience!
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The pier offers a wonderful view. Agatha Christie often went roller skating on the pier, as this was very fashionable at the time. At that time there was a concert hall at the end of the pier, but unfortunately it burned down in 1974.
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Agatha Christie often attended performances here and was there on January 4, 1913, at a concert accompanied by her (almost) husband Archie Christie. He proposed to her there. They married two years later.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical and cultural sites can I explore in Torbay?
Torbay is rich in history and culture. You can visit Berry Head Headland & Lighthouse, a dramatic headland with a Napoleonic Fort. Other notable sites include Torre Abbey, a historic building dating back to 1196, and Kents Cavern Prehistoric Caves, one of Europe's top Stone Age sites. Don't miss Cockington Village, a picturesque area with thatched cottages and a Norman church, or the Torquay Pavilion, a historic venue with ties to Agatha Christie.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Torbay?
Yes, Torbay offers many family-friendly attractions. Paignton Pier provides classic seaside fun with arcades and rides. Paignton Zoo Environmental Park is a world-famous zoo with over 2,500 animals. Babbacombe Model Village features intricate miniature landscapes, and Occombe Farm offers indoor and outdoor activities for children. Many beaches, like Goodrington Sands North Beach, are also ideal for families.
Where can I find natural beauty and scenic views in Torbay?
For stunning natural beauty, visit Berry Head Headland & Lighthouse near Brixham, offering dramatic clifftop views and abundant wildlife. Hopes Nose also provides spectacular coastal vistas. Torbay's coastline features numerous beautiful beaches such as Oddicombe Beach and Anstey's Cove, perfect for enjoying the sea and scenery.
What are some popular walking trails in Torbay?
The South West Coast Path offers miles of scenic walking routes with breathtaking views over the cliffs and beaches. A popular section runs from Brixham to Berry Head. For more specific routes, you can explore options like the 'South West Coast Path: Torquay and Hope's Nose Loop' or the 'Princess Pier, Torquay – Torquay Harbour and Marina loop from Torquay', which are moderate running trails available on komoot. Find more details on Running Trails in Torbay.
Are there any beaches suitable for families or dogs in Torbay?
Torbay boasts several excellent beaches. Goodrington Sands North Beach and Paignton Sands are popular with families, offering sandy expanses and amenities. Oddicombe Beach is also family-friendly and accessible by cliff railway. For dog owners, Oddicombe Beach and Anstey's Cove are dog-friendly, and Broadsands has specific dog-friendly sections.
What activities are available at the harbours in Torbay?
Torbay's harbours are vibrant hubs of activity. Torquay Harbour and Marina is a bustling area for yachts, watersports, and boat trips to nearby towns. Brixham Harbour is a working fishing port where you can see one of the UK's largest fishing fleets, enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants, and explore narrow streets.
What is the best time of year to visit Torbay?
Torbay, known as the 'English Riviera,' is pleasant throughout the warmer months. The best time to visit for walking and outdoor activities is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is milder and more consistent. This period also sees most attractions and facilities fully open.
Are there attractions in Torbay that are accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, some attractions in Torbay offer wheelchair accessibility. Princess Pier, Torquay is wheelchair accessible, providing a lovely waterfront stroll. The Torquay Pavilion is also noted as wheelchair accessible. It's always recommended to check with individual venues for specific accessibility details before your visit.
What can I do on a rainy day in Torbay?
On a rainy day, you can explore Torbay's indoor attractions. Kents Cavern Prehistoric Caves offer guided tours underground. Torre Abbey houses an art collection and historical exhibits. The Bygones Victorian Museum in Torquay provides a nostalgic journey back in time, and Torquay Museum features local heritage and an Agatha Christie gallery. Paignton Zoo also has indoor soft play areas.
What kind of cycling or gravel biking routes are available in Torbay?
Torbay offers diverse routes for cycling and gravel biking. You can find moderate to difficult gravel biking trails, such as the 'Wray Valley Trail – Wray Valley Trail loop from Torre' or the 'Totnes Town Centre – Dittisham Ferry loop from Stoke Gabriel'. For general cycling, there are routes like the 'Torbay loop to Paignton & Brixham from Torquay'. Explore more options on komoot's Gravel biking in Torbay and Cycling in Torbay guide pages.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about Torbay's attractions?
Visitors frequently praise the diverse experiences Torbay offers. The vibrant atmosphere and picturesque setting of Torquay Harbour and Marina are highly appreciated. Many enjoy the stunning views from places like Berry Head Headland & Lighthouse, where dolphins have been spotted. The classic English holiday feel of Paignton Pier and the fresh seafood at Brixham Harbour are also popular highlights.
Most popular routes in Torbay
Most popular attractions in Torbay
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