10 Best Things to Do in Torquay
What is Torquay Most Famous For?
One of the best things to do in Torquay, a vibrant town on the English Riviera, is to explore its seaside promenades and enjoy the variety of summertime activities. Crime novel fans may recognize recognize Torquay as the birthplace of celebrated 19th-century author Agatha Christie. One of the most popular activities here is to walk along the Torquay seafront to visit landmarks that inspired some of her best-sellers.
Torquay also has impressive archeological sites, one of which is the Kents Cavern. A 5-minute drive from central Torquay, the prehistoric caves are home to some of Britain’s earliest evidence of civilization.
What are the best things to do in Torquay?
1. Torquay Harbour
Enjoying the views of the ocean on Torquay Marina Lift Bridge
Good for: Couples, Photo
Torquay Harbour is flanked by 2 piers, known as Princess Pier and Haldon Pier, which create a picturesque setting for visitors. The tourist-friendly promenade along the harbor is lined with sea-facing cafés, restaurants, and bars. There are also numerous souvenir shops and boutiques, perfect for picking up mementos of your visit.
Water sports and boat excursions are popular summer activities around Torquay Harbour. The Torquay Marina Lift Bridge is another highlight, offering beautiful views of the ocean and serving as a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a photo opportunity.
Location: Torquay TQ1 2BB, UK
Torquay Harbour
2. Agatha Christie Mile
Retracing the steps of the renowned author along Torquay’s seafront
Good for: History, Photo, Budget
The Agatha Christie Mile consists of 12 landmarks along the seafront promenade on Torbay Road, some of which contain clues that spell out the name of a book character.
The English Riviera Visitor Information Centre is where you can pick up a booklet detailing all the locales to visit during your walk, such as The Grand Hotel, Princess Pier and Gardens, and Imperial Hotel. Look out for the bronze bust of the late author, which was sculpted by Carol Van Den Boom-Cairns in 1990.
Location: The Grand Hotel, Torbay Rd, Torquay TQ2 6NT, UK
Agatha Christie Mile
3. Torquay Museum
Home to Britain’s only Agatha Christie exhibition
Good for: History, Couples, Families
Torquay Museum was founded in 1844, making it one of the oldest museums in Devon. Exhibits here include natural history, ancient Egypt, prominent explorers, and world culture. One of its most popular display is the mummified remains of a young boy, which date back to 600BC.
Britain’s only permanent exhibit devoted to Torquay-born author Agatha Christie is found within Torquay Museum. Here, you can see many photographs, handwritten notes, clothes, and first editions of her novels. You can enjoy unlimited entry for the whole year on 1 ticket.
Location: 529 Babbacombe Rd, Torquay TQ1 1HG, UK
Open: Tuesday–Thursday and Saturday from 10 am to 4.45 pm (closed on Mondays, Fridays, and Sundays)
Phone: +44 (0)1803 293975
Torquay Museum
4. Beacon Cove
Year-round coastal charm
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
Beacon Cove is a quiet pebble beach at the base of Beacon Hill, known for its tranquil atmosphere and scenic beauty. It’s widely known as one of the landmarks of the Agatha Christie Mile, attracting fans of the celebrated author. During Agatha Christie’s time, Beacon Cove served as an exclusive women’s bathing spot, a place where Christie herself would visit with her daughter.
Unlike other beaches in Torquay, Beacon Cove has a sheltered promenade that offers plenty of beachside activities throughout the year.
Location: Beacon Hill, Torquay TQ1 2EP, UK
Beacon Cove
5. Kents Cavern
Winding labyrinths in a prehistoric site
Good for: History, Unusual
Kents Cavern is a well-preserved grotto system located 1.3 miles (2.1 km) northeast of Torquay Harbour. Here you can see impressive stalagmite and stalactite formations that are over 400 million years old, as well as prehistoric tools and fossilized remains of animals dating back to the last ice age. Guided tours are available every day between 10.30 am and 4 pm.
Kents Cavern hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, catering to diverse interests. Horror enthusiasts will appreciate the late-night screenings of classic horror movies, providing a spine-chilling experience in a unique setting. During the festive season, the Santa in the Caves event offers a magical holiday experience for the whole family.
Location: 91 Ilsham Rd, Torquay TQ1 2JF, UK
Phone: +44 (0)1803 215136
Kents Cavern
6. Fleet Walk
Shopping for high street brands at a modern shopping mall
Good for: Shoppers, Families, Couples
The Fleet Walk shopping center, situated in the heart of Torquay, is one of the city’s largest shopping venues. There are over 50 retail outlets ranging from fashion and beauty products to sports equipment and toys. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of dining options, including popular fast food and coffee chains such as Domino’s Pizza.
The mall’s spacious and well-designed walkway guides you directly to Torquay Harbour, where you can find more places to shop and dine during your visit.
Location: Fleet St, Torquay TQ2 5EB, UK
Open: Monday–Saturday from 9 am to 5.30 pm, Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm
Phone: +44 (0)1803 200508
Fleet Walk
7. English Riviera Wheel
A local landmark with stunning ocean views
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
The English Riviera Wheel is located right on Torquay’s famous harbor and offers some of the best views of the area. Totally silent, this striking structure rises over 100 ft (30 meters) above the town’s lush Princess Gardens.
Riding the wheel offers a unique perspective on Torquay and its surroundings, while those with less of a head for heights can enjoy a delicious hot drink in the adjacent cafe. For children and adults alike, this 12-minute ride on the English Riviera Wheel provides an unforgettable, quintessential Torquay experience, especially around sunset.
Location: Torquay Pavilion Torquay Sea Front, Torquay TQ2 5EQ, UK
Open: Hours vary by season
English Riviera Wheel
8. Babbacombe Model Village
A miniature wonderland for all ages
Good for: Families, Adventure
The eccentric Babbacombe Model Village is a star attraction of the area and should bring out the inner child in even the most serious grown-up. Showcasing hundreds of intricately hand-crafted model scenes, vehicles, and people, the Model Village beautifully captures a nostalgic and playful version of Britain, complete with some well-known landmarks.
One of Torquay’s star attractions, this miniature village is built with flair, imagination, and a lot of humor. Little ones will feel like giants while exploring tiny streets, and afterwards they can enjoy a round of miniature golf.
Location: Hampton Avenue, Babbacombe, Torquay TQ1 3LA, UK
Open: Hours vary by season
Phone: +44 (0)1803 315315
Babbacombe Model Village
9. Princess Theatre
Musicals and comedy acts at Torquay’s largest events venue
Good for: Couples, Families, Nightlife
The Princess Theatre is a 1960s concert hall where a wide array of performances, including musicals, pantomimes, concerts, and dance shows, take place throughout the year. This iconic venue has hosted internationally-acclaimed productions such as Chicago, Starlight Express, Rocky Horror, and Cats, drawing theater enthusiasts from far and wide.
The Princess Theatre is also known for offering stand-up comedy shows by Jasper Carrott, Jim Davidson, Joe Pasquale, Roy Chubby Brown, and others. Located along Torquay seafront, Princess Theatre is a 5-minute walk from the Fleet Walk shopping center.
Location: Torbay Road, Torquay TQ2 5EZ, UK
Phone: +44 (0)3330 095399
Princess Theatre
10. The Foundry
Dancing to some of the UK’s top music acts
Good for: Nightlife, Couples
The Foundry nightclub occupies a multi-venue building along the bustling Torquay seafront. It’s one of the town’s most popular nightclubs and has one of the best audio and lighting setups. The music varies depending on the DJ for the night, but usually focuses on bass-heavy EDM, Drum’n’Bass, and house.
Expect the dance floor to be packed with people who come to let loose, but there’s a 2nd floor if you’d rather chill out with a drink and enjoy the music.
Location: 11 Torwood St, Torquay TQ1 1ED, UK
Phone: +44 (0)1803 214446
The Foundry
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