We have picked out 24 things to do in Torquay for you to enjoy on your English Riviera adventure!
Torquay is located on Devon’s English Riviera coast, which continues to be a top trending holiday destination, and it’s not hard to see why.
The town is bursting with activities and attractions, set against stunning coastal seascapes. Whether you’re seeking Torquay attractions to enjoy with your friends or looking for places to visit in Torquay with dogs, there’s something for everyone.
Use the handy quick links below to find attractions in the following categories:
Things to Do in Torquay for Families
1. Babbacombe Model Village
Babbacombe Model Village is a charming Torquay attraction surrounded by 4 acres of award-winning gardens, containing a world full of scenes, buildings and goings-on!
Why visit? It’s one of the most popular things to do in Torquay for a reason. Children (and adults!) love following the free spotter sheet to find various scenes and characters within the village. The village comprises over 413 miniature buildings, which house over 13,000 miniature people!
There’s a range of architectural styles, as well as all kinds of vehicles and some well-known landmarks.
Advice from Babbacombe Model Village is to take your time; plan at least 1.5 hours to really take in all the magical miniature fun here.
2. Kents Cavern
Discover the prehistoric past of Stone Age caves at Kents Cavern.
Why visit? Kents Cavern is an award-winning family attraction in Torquay, offering a perfect balance of exciting entertainment and fascinating education.
The Stone Age caves make up an extensive labyrinth for you and your family to explore, with guides on hand to offer up interesting facts and information.
3. Bygones
This local, independent museum is a must-visit in Torquay, created and run by three generations of one family!
Why visit? Travel back in time as you wander down a life-size Victorian street, home to 15 shops and 9 period rooms. Packed full of authentic artefacts and items, Bygones is a homage to the past.
Marvel at a real steam engine, watch the train go round the miniature railway, and discover many fascinating exhibits.
4. Torquay’s Dinosaur World
Marvel at life-sized dinosaurs, real fossils and hands-on exhibitions at Torquay’s Dinosaur World.
Why visit? This is a must-visit for any family with dino-crazy kids! Enjoy your own Jurassic experience at Torquay’s Dinosaur World, where children can learn and play.
Pose for a family photo with a Triceratops or take a selfie with a Stegosaurus. Fill in the fun family quiz as you go round the exhibition, and then pick up a special dinosaur souvenir from the gift shop.
Things to Do in Torquay for Adults
5. Babbacombe Theatre
The local Babbacombe Theatre is renowned throughout the industry and hosts a variety of shows throughout the year.
Why visit? One of the most popular theatres in the South West, Babbacombe Theatre has a long history of showcasing popular acts and new talent since 1986.
Book tickets for your favourite comedian, watch a musical show, or pop in for Colin Matthews’ highly acclaimed variety shows in summer. The perfect holiday date night!
6. The Imperial Torquay Spa
Soak up the dramatic cliff-top views from The Imperial Torquay as you indulge in some pampering.
Why visit? Whether you’re holidaying with your friends or enjoying a romantic break with your partner, a spa day is always a great idea! The Imperial Torquay Spa has a range of treatment options and packages to choose from.
From relaxing massages to rejuvenating facials, there’s something for everyone.
7. Torre Abbey
Perfect for avid historians and lovers of yesteryear, Torre Abbey is a medieval monastery in the heart of Torquay.
Why visit? Torre Abbey dates back to 1196 and is set within 18 acres of gardens and parkland. The fascinating history of the building and its previous occupants will take you through the centuries.
Torre Abbey is a fantastic family-friendly museum, but still one of our favourite things to do in Torquay for adults.
Things to Do in Torquay in the Rain
8. Princess Theatre
South Devon’s largest theatre sits on Torquay’s waterfront and offers a wide array of entertainment for all ages.
Why visit? The Princess Theatre first opened its doors in 1961 and had The Beatles grace its stage in 1963! Nowadays, it’s a fantastic place to see the newest productions and musicals, perfect when the weather isn’t on your side.
9. Torquay Museum
Marvel at ancient artefacts and a wide variety of exhibitions at Torquay Museum, an ideal rainy-day activity!
Why visit? Torquay Museum is home to some fantastic exhibits, including a homage to the Queen of Crime Novels, Agatha Christie.
You can take an up-close look at North West Europe’s oldest human fossil and the Ancient Egyptian coffin of a 2,500-year-old mummified boy.
10. The Real Crime Museum
A local and independent museum with a penchant for true crime, you say? Yes please!
Why visit? Ever had a hankering to see the largest collection of artworks by the famous criminal Charles Bronson? Or perhaps you want to know more about drug smuggling and serial killers? This is the place for you. The Real Crime Museum has some marvelous exhibits that you’ve never seen before.
Set in old underground bunkers used in WWII, The Real Crime Museum is a must-visit for true crime fans and history lovers alike.
11. Waves Leisure Pool
No matter what the weather is doing, a trip to Waves Leisure Pool always promises to be a fun thing to do in Torquay!
Why visit? Located within the Riviera International Centre, Waves Leisure Pool is home to a pool with a wave machine, a flume and a water activity centre. It’s got a sloping pool floor, making it safe for younger children, and the wave machine comes on every half hour!
Kids can enjoy the soft play area after a swim, while you tuck into a snack at the Aqua Lounge.
12. AMF Bowling
There’s nothing like a bit of healthy competition! Challenge your loved ones to a bowling game or two at Hollywood Bowling Torquay.
Why visit? Let the good times roll at this bowling alley near the seaside, which offers a great activity for any occasion. Whether it’s a treat for the kids, a date night, or just an excuse to be inside from the rain, you’ll have hours of fun here.
Things to Do in Torquay with Dogs
13. Thatcher Point
Enjoy a coastal walk with your canine companion out to the picture-perfect Thatcher Point.
Why visit? Thatcher Point is a popular spot to visit on a Torquay day out for its views of Thatcher Rock, forming part of the English Riviera Geopark.
Incorporate this scenic viewpoint into a walk along the South West Coast Path. Begin near Kents Cavern, travel past Hope Cove to Hopes Nose and return via Thatcher Point.
14. Cockington Country Park
Cockington Country Park is made up of 450 acres of open parkland, woodland and rural countryside.
Why visit? The park offers 5 walking routes that all vary in distance and take you past some of the gardens’ ornamental lakes, arboretum, and orchards.
Whether you have a pet pooch or not, Cockington Country Park offers an ideal day out in Torquay.
15. Brunel Woods
Explore the beautiful network of paths and enchanting woodland in Brunel Woods with your dog.
Why visit? The woods were originally supposed to be gardens to a house commissioned by the famous engineer, Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Unfortunately, he died before the house was built so the woodland is all that remained.
Visit Brunel Woods for a simple and scenic thing to do in Torquay with dogs. You can seek out the large totem pole that was erected following storms in 1990 when the woodland was badly damaged.
16. Agatha Christie Mile
Retrace the steps of the ‘world’s best-selling fiction writer’, Agatha Christie, on Torquay’s seafront.
Why visit? The Agatha Christie Mile is a charming trail that provides you with a great way to see some of Torquay’s most popular sights. From The Grand Hotel and Princess Pier to Princess Gardens and the Agatha Christie Bust, you’ll get a real sense of Torquay with your pooch in tow.
Unusual things to do in Torquay
17. The Boulder Bunker
Just a stone’s throw from Torre Abbey Sands, The Boulder Bunker is the perfect activity for active holidaymakers!
Why visit? If you’re seeking unique or unusual things to do in Torquay, head here! The Boulder Bunker welcomes any level of experience and is a challenging yet fun sport for the whole family.
While harnesses are not used in bouldering, large mats are beneath you, and it’s a low-level form of climbing, perfect for even the youngest of family members.
18. Torquay Alpine Ski Club
What’s a more unusual thing to do in Torquay than snow sports in the English Riviera?
Why visit? Enjoy the fun of skiing and other snow sports at Torquay Alpine Ski Club. Choose to have private or group lessons to brush up on your skills, or simply book a practice session if you’re already up to par.
19. HQ Escape Rooms
See if you’ve got what it takes to escape the HQ Escape Rooms!
Why visit? Create some memorable moments with family or friends on holiday at HQ Escape Rooms in Torbay. Only open by appointment, it’s the perfect way to test out your teamwork skills, but can you complete the task before the time runs out?
20. Jungle Journey Adventure Golf
Play a round on the green at this fun-filled jungle adventure golf course.
Why visit? Jungle Journey Adventure Golf is a fantastic activity for groups of various ages and tastes. Everyone likes a bit of healthy competition, and what better way than at a jungle-themed crazy golf course? Who’s going to win?
Things to Do in Torquay Outdoors
21. Spend the day at the beach
Sunbathe in summer or watch the wild waves in winter; experience the beauty of Torquay’s beaches.
Why visit? Torquay and the English Riviera are home to a wonderful array of beaches and coves. Our two favourites are Oddicombe Beach and Meadfoot Beach.
Oddicombe Beach is a family-friendly shingle beach accessible via the Babbacombe Cliff Railway or a steep road. With beach huts you can rent, a well-stocked beach shop, and a quaint beachside cafe, it offers a great family day out no matter the season.
Meadfoot Beach is a unique setting with its brightly coloured beach huts painted in shades of blue, making it very recognisable. The beach sits at the bottom of imposing cliffs and is a mixture of sand and shingle.
22. Royal Terrace Gardens
Explore the winding and scenic network of paths on the hillside overlooking Torquay’s seafront.
Why visit? The Royal Terrace Gardens, known locally as Rock Walk, sit beneath the towering cliff of Waldon Hill. It’s one of the best outdoor things to do in Torquay; soak up stunning views of the English Riviera Wheel, Princess Pier and Torquay Harbour.
23. Torquay Watersports
Take fun on the water to the ultimate extreme with Torquay Watersports!
Why visit? Fancy a thrilling ride on The Raptor, or want a unique wild swimming sea safari? Torquay Watersports is the place to go.
They can offer some amazing experiences on the water, taking you to all the wildlife hotspots and showing you the sights.
24. Wesup Torquay Marina
Head to the home of paddle boarding on Torquay Marina and experience adventure on the water.
Why visit? WeSUP Torquay Marina offers an array of experiences and packages. Pick from a private, one-on-one stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) lesson or a group beginners lesson.
Alternatively, simply hire a board or kayak and head out on the open water to see Torquay from a new perspective.
What’s on in Torquay
Well-known for its vibrant event scene, there is always something going on in Torquay. Whether you fancy sampling the regions finest seafood at England’s Seafood Fest, or playing detective at The Agatha Christie Festival, there is something for everyone.
If you fancy venturing further afield, check out our guide to what’s on in Devon.
Places to Stay in Torquay
These fantastic things to do in Torquay should keep you busy on your Devon adventures, and at Helpful Holidays, we have a range of holiday cottages in and around Torquay.
From properties in the heart of Torquay to charming cottages with sea views, there’s somewhere for everyone. If you’d like to bring your pooch along, there are plenty of dog friendly holiday cottages too!
Torquay frequently asked questions
Is there much to do in Torquay?
Yes, Torquay offers plenty to do; our list of 24 things to do in Torquay is just the tip of the iceberg. Some things to do in Torquay include sandy beaches, a bustling marina, and scenic coastal paths. You can visit attractions like Kents Cavern, Torre Abbey, and Babbacombe Model Village. There are also shops, cafes, and a lively evening scene.
Which is nicer, Torquay or Paignton?
While this question is subjective, many believe Torquay to have more ‘going on’ than Paignton. This is due to Torquay having more attractions, a prettier harbour, and more upmarket restaurants and bars. Paignton has a more traditional seaside vibe, with amusement arcades and a long sandy beach. If you prefer a busier, more exciting atmosphere, Torquay usually wins.
Why is Torquay so popular?
Torquay is popular for its mild climate, beautiful bay views, and palm-lined streets that give it a Mediterranean feel. Its mix of beaches, history, and good amenities make it appealing to many visitors. It’s also the heart of the English Riviera, known for its charm and accessibility.
These fantastic things to do in Torquay should keep you busy on your Devon adventures.
For those who enjoy exploring via a scenic ramble, head off on a South West Coast Path walk in Devon.
Torquay also makes an appearance on our article on wild swimming in Devon.
