Where Torquay is and how to get there


Torquay sits on the south coast of Devon, right in the sheltered curve of Tor Bay. Its location gives it mild weather compared with much of the UK, and it's well connected despite feeling a world away from city life.


By car: Torquay is easy to reach via the M5, which links with the A380 and takes you directly into town. By train: There are regular services from London Paddington and Birmingham New Street (passing through Bristol Temple Meads), with most changing at Newton Abbot before heading on to Torquay. By bus: National Express and Stagecoach routes run in and out of the town, often at very competitive prices. By air: Exeter Airport is the closest, around 45 minutes away, making it simple for travellers flying in from elsewhere in the UK or Europe.



Best time of year to visit


Choosing when to take your holidays in Torquay Devon depends on what you want out of your trip. Summer naturally draws the biggest crowds, with July and August bringing the warmest sea temperatures and the liveliest atmosphere. Perfect if beaches and boat trips are your focus.


Spring and autumn are quieter yet still mild, making them good for coastal walking and visiting attractions without queues. Winter is the calmest time, with crisp days and cheaper accommodation, suited to travellers who don't mind wrapping up for cliff-top walks.


Things to do and family-friendly activities


A big reason why people keep coming back for holidays in Torquay is the sheer range of activities. Torre Abbey Sands is Torquay's main beach, right by the town centre and easy to reach. It's wide, sandy, and perfect for families who want space to play or relax. Kids can paddle in the shallow water while adults enjoy deckchair views of the bay.


For something a little more tucked away, Meadfoot is the quieter cousin of Torre Abbey Sands. It's backed by cliffs and loved for its rock pools, which keep children busy for hours. It's also dog-friendly outside peak restrictions.


Kents Cavern: These prehistoric caves are a real crowd-pleaser. Guided tours take you underground to see impressive rock formations while learning about early human history. The caves are buggy-friendly in parts, and the site often runs special events for children during school holidays.


Babbacombe Model Village: An old favourite that hasn't lost its charm. Spread over four acres, this miniature world has everything from tiny towns to scaled-down landmarks. The evening illuminations add a different atmosphere.


The harbour is the social hub of Torquay, especially in the evenings. Families can enjoy a stroll along the waterfront, grab fish and chips, even book a short boat trip across the bay. A visit to Torquay's Museums is great for a rainy day, as is an evening watching a show at Torquay Theatre.



Caravan parks and budget stays


For travellers who like the idea of independence and a sociable holiday atmosphere, caravan holidays in Torquay are a strong choice. Parks such as Waterside Holiday Park or Hoburne Devon Bay Holiday Park put you close to the beach while offering on-site pools and entertainment. These are both about a 15-minute drive from Torquay.


Budget stays in town often mean guesthouses or small B&Bs within walking distance of the seafront. Off-season bookings tend to bring the best value.



All-inclusive vs self-catering options


When considering all inclusive holidays in Torquay, resorts and larger hotels in and around Torquay often package meals, drinks and entertainment together. These work well if you like everything organised and paid for upfront.


That said, self-catering is often the better choice if flexibility matters. With Fresh Escapes, you'll find properties ranging from sleek seafront apartments to family-sized houses with private gardens. Cook when you want, eat out when you fancy, and enjoy more space than you'd usually get in a hotel. Self-catering also makes longer stays easier and is ideal for families or groups who prefer to keep things on their own schedule.