Visiting Torquay? Here’s the Best Things to Do in Torquay

Discover Torquay and Babbacombe Bay

Lying at the heart of the English Riviera, Torquay is famed for its impressive mix of British seaside attractions, dramatic scenery, historic wonders and a marina that’s straight out of Cannes. It’s one of just 229 UNESCO Global Geopark settings in the world, recognised for its extraordinarily beautiful and geologically significant landscape. 

Whether you want to stroll along the lively palm-fringed seafront, explore miles of golden sands or dine in the lively cafes and restaurants, Torquay boasts an incredible range of attractions to enjoy all year round.

Just around the headland from Torquay, a world away from the bright lights and bustle, you’ll find a collection of peaceful coves. The first is Babbacombe Beach, a quiet, unspoilt crescent of sand, backed by wooded cliffs that’s perfect for watersports, diving and walking.

Cary Arms & Spa sits right on Babbacombe Beach with Torquay’s leading attractions just a short drive or bus ride away. It’s the ideal base for exploring the English Riviera and discovering the multitude of things to do in Torquay and beyond.

Things to do in Torquay for adults

From wild walks and historic houses to exciting watersports and vineyard tours, there’s plenty to do during your stay in Torquay.

• Walk the Salt Path - The South West Coast Path runs for 22 miles through the English Riviera, winding its way through Torquay’s seafront and harbour. It offers endless walking opportunities, taking in some of the UK’s most incredible coastal scenery. Discover some of the best walks in Devon.
• Explore the local eateries - With the freshest seafood, fish and farm produce in abundance, Devon is a food-lover's paradise. Enjoy long lunches by the water’s edge, delicious dinners with unforgettable views and discover the stories behind some of Devon’s best tipples with a range of local vineyard and brewery tours.
• Get out on the water - A world-class sailing hub, Torquay is famed for its watersports.  Charter a yacht, enjoy an exhilarating RIB ride, hire a kayak or hop aboard a leisurely pleasure cruise where you’ll often spot seals and dolphins.
• Discover Agatha Christie’s Devon - The world-famous crime writer was born in Torquay in 1880. Follow in Christie’s footsteps, discover the places that inspired many of her novels and visit her enchanting riverside retreat, Greenway House. Find out more.
• Soak up the local History - Torquay is brimming with fascinating historic sites. Explore nearby Torre Abbey, the best preserved medieval abbey in the South West, Berry Pomeroy Castle, Compton Castle and the beautiful Coleton Fishacre House and Garden.

Cary Arms & Spa is perfectly positioned for access to the town of Torquay, the local beaches and the South West Coast Path and offers a relaxing coastal spa, just the tonic for soothing those aching muscles after a day’s adventures in Devon

Things to do in Torquay for couples

If you’re exploring the delights of Devon as a twosome, you won’t be disappointed. Here are some of our favourites:

• Enjoy a sunset stroll - Devon is one of the most wildly romantic destinations and, with the South West Coast Path winding through the town, you can enjoy unforgettable walks with showstopping scenery. Head to Babbacombe Downs and watch the sun set over Lyme Bay for a fairytale end to the day.
• Visit the Theatre - Torquay is home to two theatres: the Princess Theatre and Babbacombe Theatre. Enjoy an evening of entertainment from concerts and plays to musicals and comedy.
• Explore Babbacombe - Enjoy a day in Babbacombe where you can ride the famous Clifftop Railway between Babbacombe Downs and Oddicombe Beach, explore the model village and discover a range of independent shops and eateries.
• Enjoy cocktails by the Marina - Visit Torquay Marina for a choice of stylish waterfront bars, pubs and restaurants, set against the gorgeous backdrop of Torquay Harbour.
• Relax at the Spa - Relax, refresh and revive at Cary Arms’ Spa, an oasis of calm offering a selection of restorative treatments, an exotic experience shower, a pool, sauna and steam room.

Cary Arms & Spa offers well-appointed sea-view rooms, on the beach huts and beach suites and secluded coastal cottages for unforgettable couples’ escapes. View special offers.

Things to do in Torquay for families

With its huge range of family-friendly activities and pristine blue-flag beaches, there’s something for all the family to enjoy in Torquay. As well as plenty of attractions, there are many free activities, including crabbing in the harbour, unforgettable walks (we love the Babbacombe to Maidencombe route) and, of course, simple beach days. Here’s our pick of the best things to do in Torquay with kids:

• Kents Cavern - Step back in time and discover what life was like for the ancient humans who sheltered in the underground cave network. One of the most important Stone Age sites in the UK, you’ll find guided tours, a cafe, trails and interactive activities.
• Babbacombe Model Village - Set in 4 acres of gorgeous gardens, this miniature world includes hundreds of model scenes with thousands of tiny residents. One of Torquay’s most popular attractions, it’s a must-visit!
• Babbacombe Cliff Railway - No trip to Torquay would be complete without a ride on the Babbacombe Cliff Railway. This funicular railway links Babbacombe Downs to Oddicombe Beach.
• Bygones - A fantastic way to spend a rainy day, discover an array of incredible displays including life in Victorian times, wartime Britain and vintage shops from the 40s,50s and 60s, it’s a fascinating journey into the past.
• Torquay Museum - Uncover Torbay’s heritage and experience a range of exhibits, activities, events and trails. There’s something for all the family.
• The English Riviera Wheel - If you’re visiting Torquay in the summer months, head to Torquay harbour and view the town from a new perspective!
• Family Beaches - Torquay is home to some of the South West's most beautiful beaches. Our favourites include peaceful Babbacombe Beach (excellent for rockpooling), Oddicombe Beach with its clear waters and red cliffs, the wildly rugged Anstey’s Cove and Meadfoot Beach. Read more here.

Cary Arms & Spa provides a welcoming, village-like atmosphere with plenty of family-friendly accommodation in our self-catering coastal Beach Cottage. It’s within easy reach of the South West Coast Path and all the amenities of Babbacombe and Torquay.

Dog-friendly things to do in Torquay

If you’re holidaying with your four-legged friend in tow, there’s plenty to keep their tails wagging during your stay.

Many of Torquay’s Beaches are dog-friendly all year round, including Anstey’s Cove, Maidencombe Beach and Babbacombe Beach. Oddicombe and Meadfoot beaches allow dogs from October to April. The South West Coast Path offers mile upon mile of paw-fect walkies and many of the attractions, pubs and restaurants have dog-friendly policies.  Cockington Country Park and Torre Abbey Sands and Meadows are well worth a visit (seasonal restrictions apply at Torre Abbey Sands). Discover some of our favourite Devon walks here.

Cary Arms & Spa provides an ideal base for dog lovers and offers a range of stylish dog-friendly accommodation, including coastal cottages, beach huts and suites and rooms at the Inn.

Things to do in Torquay in the rain

It wouldn’t be a British holiday without the odd downpour, but don’t let a few drops of rain dampen your spirits. Torquay offers a plethora of places to visit when the weather’s not on your side.

Indoor (and underground) attractions like Bygones, Kents Cavern, Torquay Museum and Torre Abbey provide plenty of opportunities to venture back in time and soak up some of Torquay’s fascinating history.

For families with younger children, there are several indoor leisure and soft play options, including Occombe Farm Park and Play, Woodlands Family Theme Park in Totnes, and Waves Leisure Pool in Torquay.

You can also stay cosy at Cary Arms, relax in the glass-fronted, ocean-facing spa, watch the waves from the lounge area and linger over long lunches.

Why Cary Arms & Spa is the best base for your Torquay adventures

With its enviable seafront location and incredible range of accommodation, including luxury beach huts and beach suites, rooms in the Inn and comfortable coastal cottages, there’s no better place to stay in Torquay. Cary Arms & Spa offers a quieter alternative to staying in Torquay’s busy centre, which is just a short drive or taxi away.

Cary Arms & Spa offers stylish coastal accommodation for couples, families and visitors with pets, and there’s no shortage of things to do with our onsite spa, beach access and proximity to the South West Coast Path.