The English Riviera

Located on the scenic South Devon coastline, Babbacombe and the English Riviera has been one of the UK's top holiday destinations since Victorian times and it's easy to see why.

For holidaymakers looking to enjoy the beach life, the English Riviera will leave you spoilt for choice. Along the Torbay coastline are 19 beaches to choose from, ranging from wide sandy beaches through to private, secluded coves.

There are 22 miles of coastline, cliffs, coves and beaches and walks to rival any in the South West of England, with a climate that belongs somewhere much further south. There are opportunities for surfing, safe swimming, diving, sailing, angling and wonderful opportunities to study the natural wildlife at your leisure.

Stunning views are to be seen just about every where across the Bay, out over the English Channel, along the 40 miles of Lyme Bay to Portland Bill or inland towards the Tors of Dartmoor. Torquay is an ideal base from which to visit Dartmouth , Totnes, Exeter and Plymouth, all of which are only a few miles distant.

There are also an array of attractions to keep the whole family entertained! You could visit Paignton Zoo (of TV fame), or go back in time at Kent's Cavern where you'll discover prehistoric caves - recognised as the oldest human dwelling in Britain!

The steam railway is well worth a trip, where you can experience a steam train ride across viaducts and through wooded valleys, arriving in the picturesque town of Dartmouth with its quaint art galleries and famous castle.

For those feeling more adventurous you'll find Splashdown @ Quaywest in the neighbouring town of Paignton - a waterpark with the renowned near-vertical 'devils drop' waterslide for those daring enough. Back in Torquay, why not visit Living Coasts where you can see the Penguin's at play - both above and below water, or pay a visit to Babbacombe Model Village where you can experience Torbay in miniature.

Torre Abbey is the oldest building in Torquay. It has a story spanning 800 years and was once the most important Abbey of its kind in England, the brothers who lived here then were known as the White Canons. Following a massive three-year restoration project visitors can now explore the most ancient and hallowed parts of the building where some stunning finds have been unearthed. Torre Abbey a historic house and garden, also home to a museum and art gallery.