English Riviera Airshow

The English Riviera Airshow, held in Paignton, Devon is a spectacular event. The weekend event features breathtaking air displays over the stunning natural amphitheatre of South Devon's beautiful bay. Of course, we'll say it's the best Airshow in the UK, but when you have some of Devon's best beaches as a backdrop and access to world-class food and activities all within walking distance, who can blame us?! In fact, each year, the Airshow attracts almost 200,000 people to The English Riviera. And the best bit of all, the airshow is completely free!

This year’s Airshow will also have an event village on Preston Green. Visitors can enjoy a variety of stalls, catering stands and a bar while watching the breathtaking aerial displays taking place over the weekend.

The English Riviera Airshow is organised by Torbay Council with support from the English Riviera BID Company.

Where can I watch the English Riviera Airshow?

The main action takes place on Paignton Green, with plenty of stalls, activities, commentary and a festive atmosphere to go along with it.

However, if you'd like to watch from afar, there are some great clifftop vantage sites across the Bay. If you are staying in Torquay, we would recommend perching up on Daddyhole Plain, while both Beacon Quay, Meadfoot Beach and Thatcher Point are also very popular. If you are over in Brixham, we would highly recommend both Berry Head and Battery Gardens, while more great spots in Paignton include Roundham Head and the end of Paignton Pier. 

Travelling to Paignton for the English Riviera Airshow

Those looking to join the festivities by car can purchase their car parking tickets through the English Riviera Airshow website.

The official designated car park for the free-to-attend event is the Victoria Car Park on Garfield Road, Paignton, and is just a short walk from the main event site on Paignton Green.

Make a Weekend of It

The Airshow takes place across two days, so it's the perfect opportunity to make a weekend of it and enjoy all there is to offer on the English Riviera. There's accommodation to suit every need from award-winning boutique B&Bs and your favourite branded hotels to holiday parks and self-catering accommodation.

You won’t be disappointed with the fabulous food and drink on offer either. There is no shortage of seriously good restaurants and there’s something to suit every pocket and taste, from traditional fish and chips to exceptional fine dining. There are a plethora of wine and cocktail bars, traditional pubs and cafés too, many with exceptional views across the Bay.

And on the days when you’re not taking in the sights of the Airshow, why not visit one of the many attractions? With prehistoric caves once the home of ancient humans, a model village and a steam train to name a few, there’s something for everyone.

Or why not just experience the great outdoors? Walk the stunning South West Coast Path, take a ferry ride across the Bay, or visit a nature reserve. Or you could take to the water and go wild swimming, stand up paddleboarding or, for the more adventurous, there’s coasteering and an exhilarating rib ride!