Terrific Torbay
Torbay has evolved as one of the UK’s major holiday destinations. Known as the “English Riviera” with its beautiful beaches and mild climate, the area encompasses such diversity that it can truly offer something for everyone.
People who visit Torbay usually fall in love with the area and return year on year for one reason or another, whether they are drawn to the nightlife of Torquay, the charm of Brixham — a working fishing village — or the traditional atmosphere of Paignton, with its pier, amusements and long promenade.
The first advertising campaign to market Torquay to summer tourists was launched in 1902. There are many attractions in the town to keep holiday makers of all ages busy, such as Kents Cavern, the Living Coast, the Princess Theatre and Babbacombe Model Village. In addition, it’s hard to forget the experience of a cream tea in the “olde worlde” thatched village of Cockington, which can be reached from the seafront via pony and trap.
Paignton’s economy relies on tourism and it is marketed as a centre for family holidays. The 780-foot long pier is a popular attraction, and was opened in 1879. The Festival Theatre, dating from 1967, now houses a multi-screen cinema, well placed for those rainy days when tourists need some shelter from the elements.
There is an annual Regatta week in Paignton, when children try to persuade their parents to take them to the fun fair and fireworks display on the green.
Visitors will also be impressed by the refurbished seafront crazy-golf facility, which has had the benefit of a makeover with a pirate theme, complete with firing cannon effect. Paignton Zoo is also a favourite with holidaymakers, perhaps returning after a morning trip on the Paignton and Dartmouth Steam Railway which operates trains along a scenic route to Kingswear.
Brixham is a small fishing village with a harbour where views of homes and buildings snugly pack the hillsides. Today there is a full sized replica of Drake’s Golden Hind in the harbour. One can only wonder at the incredibly small size of the vessel in which he circumnavigated the globe.
Interestingly, William, Prince of Orange landed in Brixham in November 1688 during the Glorious Revolution. There are still local residents of the town who are direct descendants of soldiers in his army and this is evidenced by their Dutch surnames. Napoleon Bonaparte is also said to have spent several days waiting to be exiled as a prisoner aboard the HMS Bellerophon, which was anchored off Brixham.
It is also said that Nelson graced the town with a visit, perhaps on more than one occasion, along with other famous Admirals of the Fleet.
The coastal headland of Berry Head lies to the south of Brixham. Nature loving holiday makers enjoy visiting the lighthouse, Napoleonic fort and national nature reserve located there.
Some of the most exclusive areas in Torbay are located north of Torquay harbour. This area was built up by wealthy Victorians influenced by their travels around the Mediterranean. There is an abundance of evergreen shrubs and even palm trees in Torbay that give it an exotic, almost Italianate feel all year round.