Wherever you stay in the English Riviera, you’ll never be far from something to do. From adventure sports and family fun to refined gardens and musical theatre, there’s something going on near you.
Things to do in Brixham
Celebrate all things to do with the sea in Brixham – and yes, that does include treating yourself to fish and chips! The breakwater is a great spot for the kids to have a go at crabbing, and you’ll find crab lines and bait on sale in the shops along the harbour. The harbour side is also the spot to book a boat trip to have a go at mackerel fishing. You may be lucky enough to catch enough for supper, but if you don’t there is no shortage of excellent restaurants in the town serving up the day’s freshest, local catch. If you’re interested in fish or food or both, you’ll love the special tours of the Brixham Fish Market. It’s an early start, but well worth it.
Things to do in Torquay
There are things to do day and night in the buzzing town of Torquay. Challenge friends and family to a game of crazy golf at Abbey Gardens in the morning. Shop till you drop at the choice of boutique shops and high street favourites in the town after brunch. Enjoy supper looking out across the superyachts moored in the marina. Then party away until the small hours at the choice of clubs and bars.
Things to do in Paignton
If you’re visiting Paignton with the kids, the Geoplay playground on the Green beside the seafront will be your best discovery. They can happily swing, climb, dig and slide. Even better, it’s free. It’s next to the Vue cinema, a multiplex showing all the latest flicks, and a popular destination for all ages. Paignton is also the starting point for the Dartmouth Steam Railway, which you can hop aboard for a scenic trip to Kingswear and Dartmouth.
Things to do in Cockington
Cockington has a reputation as a hub for local craftspeople. If you’re looking for a special souvenir, take a look around the workshops. You’ll also find regular exhibitions here and crafts activities for the younger members of the family. The huge grounds of Cockington Country Park are a lovely spot for a walk. And the pretty thatched pubs and tea rooms provide welcome refreshment at the end.
A walk along Babbacombe Downs will reward you with some spectacular views across the sea as far as Dorset. Counting the steps on the way down to the beach is a good chance to test your child’s counting skills! Or take the Babbacombe Cliff Railway, which has been shuttling passengers up and down since 1926, if that sounds too energetic. Babbacombe Theatre runs an impressive list of performances, from comedy to opera. And the famous Babbacombe Model Village captivates visitors of all ages who step into this miniature world.
Wherever you’re staying, search and discover things to do on your doorstep or a short bus or car ride away.