The English Riviera is a resort in the truest sense of the word, attracting visitors of all ages and interests throughout the year. Undergoing a water front regeneration and a number of new attraction and accommodation schemes, Torquay has something for everyone and for all ages, at all times of the year!

Torquay has been one of the UK 's top holiday destinations since Victorian Times when the gentry promenaded, bathing huts were wheeled down to the beaches and anyone who was anyone had an attractive villa overlooking the sea.

It was the Victorians who first used the Riviera name to describe their favourite resort and their legacy remains to this day with sparkling white villas perched on the verdant hilltops, beautiful gardens around the seafront and elegant Victorian facades along the main streets.

Don't be fooled by the Victorian ancestry however, Torquay is also a vibrant and forward thinking resort attracting visitors of all interests, from Art and Culture afficionados to marine enthusiasts.

Torquay's famous seven hills provide the backdrop to a waterfront scene that matches anything you'll find on the French Riviera.

Along the 22 miles of English Riviera coastline are 19 beaches and covers. Some, close to the town centre are wide, open stretches of sand with beach facilities such as cafes, beach huts and watersports. Many are smaller and more secluded.

Several of our beaches hold coveted awards for cleanliness and water quality. Torbay is a naturally sheltered bay, creating a safe haven for ships of all shapes and sizes in stormy weather. Occasional easterly winds create our own winter storms however and this is when beachcombers make there best finds. Keep an eye on the weather pages and the webcam.

Stretching from the South side of Brixham to Maidencombe, the coast path around the Bay offers excellent and varied walking, with circular walks or point-to-point, with spectacular sea views and an exotic range of flora and fauna.