Torquay is a seaside town in south Devon, located on the northern side of Tor Bay and forming part of the Torbay area alongside Paignton and Brixham. It developed as a Victorian resort and remains one of the largest coastal towns in Devon. The town is known for its marina, sheltered bay and mix of traditional and modern tourist facilities.
About Torquay
Torquay is built around a series of bays and headlands, with the main harbour and marina forming the focal point. The waterfront includes a promenade, harbour area and seafront gardens, while the town centre extends inland with shops, accommodation and services. The layout is varied, with both flat seafront areas and steeper streets rising behind the harbour.
The marina accommodates leisure boats and yachts, reflecting the town’s focus on tourism rather than commercial fishing. Torquay is also associated with Agatha Christie, who was born in the town. Nearby areas include Paignton to the south, offering a more traditional resort layout, and Babbacombe to the north, known for its cliffs and viewpoints.
Beaches in Torquay
Torquay has a number of small to medium-sized beaches, mostly sheltered within the bay and suitable for general use.
Torre Abbey Sands – Sandy beach near the town centre, gently sloping and sheltered, widely used for swimming and family visits.
Meadfoot Beach – Shingle beach east of the harbour, more exposed, popular for swimming and quieter than central beaches.
Babbacombe Beach – Small shingle and sand beach below cliffs, partially sheltered, accessed via steep paths or road.
Oddicombe Beach – Sandy and shingle beach near Babbacombe, sheltered and accessible by cliff railway or road.
Things to Do in Torquay
The town offers a range of attractions combining seaside facilities, local history and coastal access.
Torquay Harbour and Marina – Central waterfront area with boat activity, restaurants and views across Tor Bay, forming the main focal point.
Torre Abbey – Historic building and museum near the seafront, with gardens and exhibitions covering local history and art.
Babbacombe Cliff Railway – Short funicular railway providing access between the clifftop and Oddicombe Beach, offering coastal views.
Kents Cavern – Prehistoric cave system on the edge of town, open to visitors with guided tours explaining geological and human history.
South West Coast Path – Walking route passing through Torquay, linking nearby coastal sections towards Paignton and Teignmouth.
Visiting Torquay
Torquay is accessible via the A380 and A3022, with direct road connections from Exeter and the M5. It also has a railway station with services to Exeter, Newton Abbot and beyond. Parking is available in multiple car parks across the town, particularly near the seafront and harbour.
Facilities are extensive, including a wide range of accommodation, shops, restaurants and attractions. The town is larger than most Devon coastal destinations, with a mix of walkable areas and sections requiring transport.
The best time to visit is between late spring and early autumn, when conditions are suitable for beach use and outdoor activities. During peak summer periods, the seafront and main attractions can become busy. The varied terrain, including some steep areas, may affect ease of movement in parts of the town.