Discover Torbay, the original destination for UK breaks

We know that many of you are considering a UK break for the first time ever. Don’t worry, we’re not offended. We know that times are different than they used to be and habits are changing, and you may not know quite where to start when it comes to your first staycation. If it were us, we’d be tempted to book a break where it all started…in the classic destination of Torbay.

Made up of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, Torbay is a sandy, palm-lined bay tucked on the South Devon coast. With its very own micro-climate, it’s always a few degrees warmer than the rest of the UK, hence the palm trees that call it home. Families have been packing the flip flops and heading to the bay for generations, and it’s just as beautiful and just as welcoming as it’s always been.

So, just why is Torbay the ultimate UK destination?

Beautiful beaches in Torbay

Let’s start with the all-important issue of the sandy beaches on offer. Torbay is home to more beaches and coves than you can shake a stick at. That means you’re guaranteed to be within easy reach of a picturesque stretch of sand with your name on it. The ten beaches that grace the bay include Seaside Award and Blue Flag holders, so check out which ones suit you best before you book your break.

Whether you visit during high season when the resort’s alive with activity, or you opt for the peace and quiet of the low season, the bay’s many beaches will have you at ‘hello’.

There’s plenty to do in Torbay

Love them we may, but nobody wants to be stuck inside with bored kids again for a very long time after those lockdowns. That’s why Torbay is perfect for family breaks – it’s literally packed with days out for the whole family. You’ll find the historic Kents Cavern, Paignton Zoo, Babbacombe Model Village, Bygones, the Babbacombe Cliff Railway and many more attractions waiting to welcome you.

If it’s natural beauty that takes your fancy, pack the kids in the car and take a windswept walk on rugged Dartmoor. Dartmoor National Park is under 20 minutes’ drive from Torbay, and it’s the perfect spot for a picnic. Look out for the wild ponies that call the moorland home and be careful not to let them get too close!

Torbay’s best restaurants

A self-catering break means one thing…plenty of opportunity to sample the local cuisine. Torbay is home to some of the best restaurants in the county, especially if you love a little seafood. For fancy fish and chips with a touch of celebrity, you’ll find Mitch Tonks’ empire, Rockfish beside Torquay’s glittering harbour. For fine dining, head to The Elephant, the bay’s Michelin Star restaurant, also beside the harbour.

One of the things families love about Torbay is that there’s no shortage of hearty, family-friendly restaurants that serve up good food with a smile. And better still, almost all of them have sea views you won’t be able to peel your gaze from.

Find your favourite place to stay in Torquay, Brixham and Paignton.