Based in the English Riviera – so called because of the warm microclimate and the palm trees lining the roads, Torquay has been a popular family-friendly destination since the Victorian era – which you can still see to this day with the grand hotels overlooking the beach.
What you need to know:
- Set along the Torbay within the English Riviera in South Devon
- Easy access via the road and mainline rail networks
- Victorian era hotels
- Popular family holiday destination
- Home to Agatha Christie
Things to do in Torquay
It’s no wonder why Torquay has been a popular holiday resort for generations. Here you’ll find some of Europe’s most important caves, a historic abbey, walking tours, watersports, museums and the UNESCO Global Geopark.
Agatha Christie - the Queen of Crime
Torquay’s most famous export is the Queen of Crime herself, Agatha Christie.
Christie was born in the town and lived in and around the English Riviera for much of her life, she even owned a holiday home nearby which is now managed by the National Trust. She wrote some of her first novels while working as a nurse in the temporary war hospital at Torquay Town Hall, where she met a number of Belgian refugees who went on to inspire Hercule Poirot.
Find out more about Agatha Christie here.
Torquay’s beaches
There are loads of little beaches and coves around Torquay to enjoy including:
- Torquay Beach
- Meadfoot Beach
- Oddicombe Beach
- Anstey’s Cove
- Babbacombe Beach
- Torre Abbey Sands
- Maidencombe Beach
- Watcombe Beach
- Crab Beach
- Peaked Tor Cove
- Beacon Cove
- Corbyn Head
- Livermead Sands
- Institute Beach
- Hollicombe Beach
Frequently Asked Questions:
Which beaches in Torquay can I take my dog?
There are a number of dog friendly beaches in Torquay. Dogs are permitted year round on the following beaches: Anstey’s Cove, Torquay, Babbacombe Beach, Torquay, Beacon Cove, Torquay, Livermead Sands, Torquay, Maidencombe Beach, Torquay, Meadfoot Beach, Torquay (North eastern part) Peaked Tor Cove, Torquay. Find out more about Devon's dog friendly beaches and more here.
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Is there a map or guide of Torquay I can buy?
The English Riviera Centre in Torquay will have maps and guides available, alternatively, there are maps and guides available to view online via our maps and guides page.
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Are there boats running today?
There are boats running at various times a day from Torquay harbour. Full details are available here.
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What are the opening hours for the Tourist Information Centre?
The Tourist Information Centre in Torquay is open Monday - Sunday and Bank Holidays. It is the English Riviera Visitor Centre and so will be able to help you with trips across the region. At the time of publishing, the opening hours were 9.30am - 5pm Monday to Saturday, 10am - 2pm on a Sunday and 11am - 2pm on a Bank Holiday.
For the most up to date information, call them on 01803 211211.
See up to date information here
Can I use my bus pass while travelling around Torquay?
Yes, any concession passes displaying the 'English Rose' logo can be used after 9.30 am and before 11 pm Monday to Friday and anytime at weekends on buses across Torquay. Plan bus routes and find out more about travelling via bus here.
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Is Torquay beach good for swimming?
Yes, the majority of beaches in Torquay are good for swimming, Torre Abbey Sands and Cosy Corner are both very popular because the water is generally calm.
Find out more about Torquay
Can I fly to Torquay?
Torquay's nearest airport is Exeter International Airport, which is around 40 minutes away from Torquay. There are several connections available including buses, taxis and trains.
Plan your journey
Can I travel to Torquay by train?
Yes, Torquay's train station is on the main UK train network and can also connect you to other towns and villages across Devon.
Plan your journey here
Is the beach at Torquay sandy?
Yes, Torquay has several beaches, including sandy and shingle beaches. One of the most popular beaches is Torre Abbey Sands, which has sand and is conveniently located.
Find out more about Torquay here
Is there plenty of car parking in Torquay?
Yes, there are several car parks in Torquay, including long and short stay options, Blue Badge parking and electric vehicle parking and charging.
The following car parks can be found in Torquay:
Beacon Quay Car Park
Union Square Car Park
Harbour Car Park, Montpellier Rd
Sheddon Hill Car Park
Melville Street Car Park
Brunswick Square Car Park
Town Hall Car Park, Lymington Road
Shopper's Car Park, Lower Union lane
Meaadfort Road Car Park
Fleet Walk Car Park
Torre Valley Car Park, Walnut Road
Lower Union Lane Car Park
Abbey Car Park, Belgrave Road
Walls Hill Car Park
Torquay Station Car Park, Rathmore Road
Lymington Road Car Park
Meadfort Beach Car Park, Daddyhole Road
Hampton Avenue Car Park
Anstey's Cove Car Park
Princes Street Car Park
Watcobe Beach Road Car Park
St Marychurch Car Park, Babbadcombe Road
Chilcote Close Car Park
Kilmorie Car Park, Ilsham Road
Daddyhole Plain Car Park, Daddyhole Road
See more parking here
