15 Unmissable Places to Visit in Torquay: Your Ultimate Guide

Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you explore 15 unmissable places to visit in Torquay, ensuring seamless communication while discovering the coastal beauty, charming attractions, and vibrant culture of this stunning seaside town.

Torquay teems with charms both ancient and modern. Craggy caves where cavemen once dwelled. Storybook cottages and formal gardens. Golden beaches lapped by blue waves. And of course, echoes of Agatha Christie around every cobbled corner.

This jewel of the English Riviera packs in plenty of things to do in Torquay UK.

1. Kents Cavern

Transport yourself back to the Stone Age at Kents Cavern. This labyrinth of prehistoric caves is a playground for amateur archaeologists. Guided tours lead you past jaw-dropping rock formations, spotlighting the spots where ancient humans and Ice Age beasts once sheltered. Don’t miss the fascinating fossil displays in the visitor centre.

2. Torre Abbey

History buffs, art aficionados, and garden lovers all find bliss at Torre Abbey. Founded way back in 1196, this regal complex has served as a monastery, an aristocratic residence, and now a museum. Admire fine art and sculptures in the gallery spaces. Stroll the impeccably landscaped gardens, featuring exotic plants and a clever medieval children’s trail.

3. Cockington Village

Step into a fairytale at Cockington Village. Impossibly quaint thatched cottages cluster around a verdant country park here, painting a vision of traditional English rural life. Pop into Cockington Court, a grand manor now housing a crafts centre where you can watch glassblowers, blacksmiths and other artisans at work. Then ramble the nearly 500 acres of parkland, lakes and woodland.

4. Babbacombe Model Village

See Torquay in miniature at Babbacombe Model Village. Tiny thatched cottages, a pint-sized steam train, and itty-bitty royal gardens are among the 400+ patiently crafted models here. Cheeky little details – like mischievous model monks fishing with dynamite – charm both kiddos and adults. Visit around dusk to see the village illuminated with 14,000 enchanting lights.

• Admission: Rs. 1128 adults, Rs. 789 kids

• Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm (or dusk)

• Souvenir Tip: Take home a mini model from the gift shop

5. Torquay Museum

Get your history and culture fix at Torquay Museum. This temple to Torquay’s heritage packs in exhibits spanning 400 million years, from prehistoric artifacts to Agatha Christie manuscripts. Kiddos love the interactive explorer zones and dressing up in period costumes. Check the schedule for the rotating roster of talks, workshops and holiday activities.

6. Beacon Cove

For a hit of beach bliss and literary history, head to Beacon Cove. Agatha Christie once swam at this secluded spot near the harbour, and you can follow in her wake with a dip in the sheltered waters. It’s a stop on the Agatha Christie Mile, a self-guided tour connecting significant sites for the Queen of Crime.

7. Oddicombe Beach

When it comes to Torquay beaches, Oddicombe is a true beauty. Red cliffs cup the half-mile stretch of shingle sand, giving way to calm, shallow waters. Ride the historic Babbacombe Cliff Railway down to the shore – it’s been trundling up and down since the 1920s. On the beach, you’ll find a cafe, a dog-friendly section, and kayaks and paddleboards for hire.

8. Princess Pier and Princess Gardens

For a dose of Victorian seaside charm, head to Princess Pier. This elegant, cast-iron structure stretches 180 metres into the sea, offering cracking views back towards town. Flanking the pier, the manicured lawns and floral displays of Princess Gardens beg for a picnic or lazy afternoon lounging.

9. Cockington Country Park

Tucked behind Cockington Village lies a lush oasis of woodlands, lakes, and manicured gardens. Cockington Country Park is the perfect place to while away an afternoon in the great outdoors. Amble along the accessible lakeside boardwalk, or tackle one of the longer rambles through the forest. Bring a picnic to enjoy on the expansive lawns.

• Park Highlights: 17th century gamekeepers cottage, working craft studios, water mill

• Walking Trails: Easy 1-mile lakeside loop to 4-mile woodland hikes

• Parking: Rs. 448 for 4 hours

10. Living Coasts Coastal Zoo

Get up close and personal with penguins, seals, and other aquatic creatures at Living Coasts Coastal Zoo. This compact zoo and aquarium is set right on the harbour, with an emphasis on conservation and interactive exhibits. Check the daily schedule to catch feedings, talks, and trainer encounters.

11. Torquay Harbour

The heartbeat of Torquay is its harbour, a hive of activity from dawn to dusk. Fishing boats jostle with pleasure cruisers in the sparkling marina waters. Lively cafes, restaurants and bars line the waterfront. For a real slice of local life, grab a bench and watch the comings and goings of sailors and daytrippers.

12. Torquay Boat Trips

Some of the best views of the English Riviera are from the water. Hop aboard one of the many Torquay boat trips for a fresh perspective on the coastline. A few favorite voyages:

• Greenway Ferry: Cruise up the River Dart to Greenway House, Agatha Christie’s summer estate

• Torbay Cruise: 1-hour scenic loop around the bay, with views of beaches and Berry Head

• Fishing Trips: Angle for mackerel on a short jaunt or spend a full day deep-sea fishing

13. Best Torquay Restaurants

You’ll eat well in Torquay, with everything from cheap eats to Michelin-starred spots. A few top picks for Torquay restaurants:

The Elephant: Michelin-starred, with a focus on fresh seafood and foraged fare

• Hanbury’s Famous Fish and Chips: A local institution dishing up flaky cod and crispy chips

• Meat59 Torquay: Trendy burgers and steaks in a retro-cool space

• The Orange Tree: Globally-inspired tapas and entrees in a cozy, romantic setting

14. Accommodation in Torquay

When it comes to accommodation in Torquay, you’re spoiled for choice. The town has a rich history of tourism, so there are digs for every taste and budget:

15. Best Cafes in Torquay

Need a caffeine fix or quick bite? These best cafes in Torquay have you covered:

• Dot’s Pantry: Vegan and veggie light bites in a boho-chic space

• Molloy’s Coffee: Third-wave coffee and fresh pastries right on the harbour

• Burridge’s Cafe: No-frills greasy spoon dishing up traditional English breakfasts

• The Singing Kettle: Charming tea room serving classic cream teas and cakes

Travel Smart with Airtel International Roaming

One last tip – stay connected with an international roaming plan from Airtel. With seamless coverage in numerous countries, you can avoid the hassle of dealing with local SIM cards. Having data at your fingertips means you can easily use maps, check opening hours, and book tours without a hitch.

Whether you’re navigating new cities or sharing your experiences, Airtel ensures you stay connected wherever your travels take you.