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Torquay, the central resort of the English Riviera in Devon, is famous for its stunning palm-lined seafront, sheltered sandy beaches, and mild microclimate. The town boasts a beautiful harbour and marina, a vibrant hub for leisure boats and seaside dining. Torquay is a destination of elegance and charm, often compared to the French Riviera for its beautiful coastal views and sunny disposition.
You can explore the fascinating prehistoric caves of Kents Cavern, stroll along the South West Coast Path for magnificent sea views, or visit the historic Torre Abbey, a beautiful medieval monastery and Georgian mansion. Torquay is a wonderful blend of natural beauty, historic intrigue, and relaxing coastal resort life.
Torquay’s best hotel locations centre around the picturesque harbour, the seafront promenade, and the elevated residential areas.
The Harbour and Town Centre area is the most popular choice for first-time visitors. Staying here places you in the heart of the action, close to the marina, the main restaurants, bars, and shopping areas. Accommodation is highly convenient for accessing all parts of the town and is typically where you find the largest hotels.
The Seafront Promenade and Abbey Sands area offers a scenic base with direct access to the main beaches and the beautiful grounds of Torre Abbey. Hotels and guesthouses here often feature beautiful sea views and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for long seaside strolls.
For a quieter, more residential, and often more upmarket stay, consider the hotels and guesthouses located on the hillsides around the Warberry and Wellswood areas. These elevated positions offer some of the best panoramic views over the bay and provide a tranquil retreat away from the central bustle.
Torquay is served by Torquay railway station, which is located close to the seafront and connects to major UK cities. The nearest major airport is Exeter Airport (EXT), with onward travel via direct train services. The main resort areas are connected by a local bus network, although the central harbour and seafront are very walkable.
To find the most competitive hotel prices in Torquay, you must be flexible with your travel dates, as prices are heavily dependent on the season. The English Riviera is most popular during the school summer holidays (July and August), when hotel rates are at their highest.
For the most significant savings, aim to book your stay during the quietest winter months. A unique event to be aware of is the Agatha Christie Festival in September, as Torquay is her birthplace and the festival draws international crowds, causing a temporary surge in local accommodation prices. For the best value, plan your trip outside of this festival and target mid-week stays, which are consistently cheaper than weekends.