The English Riviera benefits from the mildest climate on the British mainland. On a balmy summers night, sitting out around the harbour there is almost mediterranean atmosphere.
Agatha Christie and Basil Fawlty were Torquay's most famous residents. Agatha used to write books, no doubt whilst sipping her Devon tea. Basil preferred to pour tea over unsuspecting guests who were unfortunate enough to check in to his hotel!
Famous as a watersports mecca you can do almost anything on the water. That is "anything" that doesn't require wave! Surfers may have to wait afew months for some freak weather! There is ample opportunity to sail, wind surf, dive, waterski, jet ski, canoe or ride one of those inflable banana things. You can go out on a fishing boat, take a trip up the River Dart, see dolphins under a glass bottomed boat or view the sunset and the Torquay lights on an evening cruise.
Along the path:
For those who prefer dry land, take a walk along the SW coastal path. Within minutes of the harbour you will be walking along cliff tops with views over the whole Bay. Further on the path descends into lushly vegetated areas more reminiscent of the tropics than a British woodland. The path links beaches from the golden Abbey Sands to secret shingle coves where the famous red cliffs of Devon plunge into the turquoise waters. For swimmers, the sea is warm (by British standards) and so safe that a midnight dip in the phosporescence is an experience not to be missed!
Historically speaking:
Take a step back in time at Cockington Village where thatch, parkland, and horse drawn carriages combine to create a scene worthy of a period drama.
There are clubs to suit all from the famous pumping Monastry to the well hidden Hideaway which attracts a curious concoction of characters on a Friday night. There is a thriving gay scene in Torquay best experienced at Rockys or Ibiza on the Harbour.
On the restaurant scene there is a restaurant to suit every taste and pocket.