Welcome To the e-travelguide to Hotels, guest houses and attractions in Torbay

Make the most of your time in Torbay, use the information provided on this web site by clicking on the links above to plan your visit.

The towns of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham - collectively referred to as Torbay after the sheltered east-facing bay on which they stand – are also affectionately known as The English Riviera, due to the exceptionally warm and pleasant climate, the brilliant blue sea and golden sandy beaches, and the array of distinctive Yucca trees that seem to grow everywhere on this stretch of coastline. Torbay is situated at the western end of Lyme Bay in Devon, in the south west of England, and is an iconic and quintessentially English seaside resort – one of the UK’s most popular tourist destinations in fact. The area’s origins as a holiday resort can be traced back to Victorian times, when it became fashionable for the English aristocracy and upper classes to visit the seaside for its health benefits. The dramatic growth in the 19 th and early 20 th Centuries resulting from its increase in popularity is still evident today; Torquay, Paignton and Brixham are characterised by their handsome white villas, grand Victorian hotels and elegant gardens.

The three English Riviera towns each have their own distinct identity, despite their gradual expansion and coalescence. Torquay is by some margin the largest of the three Torbay towns, and the busiest, with perhaps the most impressive array of modern facilities, cafes, pubs, restaurants and a vibrant nightlife. Much of Torquay’s Victorian grandeur has been retained, and the promenade, seafront gardens, bustling harbour and international marina are all individual focal points of the town. Torquay has also emerged as one of the UK’s most popular conferencing venues, with a hectic schedule of events running throughout the year. Paignton is somewhat smaller than Torquay, and also more peaceful. It is however still an enormously popular destination, with attractions such as Paignton Zoo acting as a magnet for tourists. The southernmost Torbay town – Brixham – is the smallest of the three, and also the most sedate. Renowned for its maritime heritage and its still-thriving fishing industry, Brixham is a quaint little place that makes a secluded retreat from the fast pace of modern life.

With so much to offer, Torbay remains one of the UK’s favourite holiday destinations, and looks set to continue in that role for some time to come.

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