The area around the town’s seafront is the most picturesque, with sweeping views of Tor Bay
Things To Do
Visit the beautiful Torre Abbey to gain an insight into 800 years of history through a mix of authentic artefacts and hi-tech interpretation. Newly re-opened after substantial refurbishment, there are talking portraits and statues, interactive displays and one of the largest fine art collections in the south west. The gardens, with a wealth of exotic plants, are a pleasure too.
Take a ride on the English Riviera Wheel for some breathtaking views over the harbour and Tor Bay. The completely silent ride lasts approximately 13 minutes and, when lit up at night, is a graceful way to view Torquay. You can even book the VIP Gondola (which has tinted glass and higher standard seats) with a glass of bubbly – a great way to begin an evening in town.
Take the frequent ferry aboard Western Lady across Tor Bay to Brixham, seen from Torquay. You’ll see fabulous views right around the Bay from Hope’s Nose to Berry Head during your trip and, once in Brixham, you can explore this delightful town, Devon’s seafood capital.
On your caravan holiday in Torquay, visit Kents Cavern, one of Europe’s most important prehistoric caves and a visitor centre for the English Riviera Global Geopark. There you’ll see Ice Age Torquay and, among many other things, Britain’s oldest human bone (41,000 years old).
Get the low-down on Agatha Christie’s life and work with a self-guided walking tour along the Agatha Christie Mile, taking in places and sights around Torquay relevant to her work, then hop on the ‘old green bus’ for a vintage bus tour of the English Riviera to Greenway House, Christie’s home on the banks of the River Dart. You can always return via steam train or paddle steamer.
Getting There
Inspired to take a caravan holiday in Torquay? To reach the town from the north, take the M5 to junction 31, then the A380 and the A3022. Anticipate bottlenecks approaching the roundabout where the A380 and A3022 meet.
If you’re approaching Torquay from the east, the M4 intersects with the M5, then follow the route described above, or use the M3, then the A303 and the A30 to junction 29 of the M5, then take the above route.
Most of the campsites in Torquay and the surrounding area are actually in neighbouring Paignton rather than Torquay, but with good public transport links throughout Torbay this should not pose a problem, or you can drive into town.
All main roads are negotiable for towing. But, as always, watch out on the minor roads to outlying villages, as the country lanes can be tight and have little visibility.
