Local Area |Tourist Attractions | Places To Visit

English Riviera Attractions
Devon’s English Riviera has possibly the highest concentration of top quality attractions of any British resort including renowned underground caverns, a magnificent model village, a steam train, a world-class zoo, an historic funicular railway, an 800 year old Abbey, a huge waterpark, a historic pier, Agatha Christie’s famous riverside residence and much more. 

So Much to Discover
Amongst the English Riviera’s huge number of family attractions are: Babbacombe Model Village with its 4 acres of award winning gardens, hundreds of model scenes, vehicles and people; Bygones with its authentic life-size Victorian street and 3 floors of pure nostalgia; Waves Leisure Pool with its lovely warm water and activities for all ages and Torquay Land Train which will whisk you around town and to the delightful Cockington village with its craft studios and country park. Historic Paignton Pier offers fun and games galore and kids will love the superb, free Geoplay Park on Paignton Green. You can also try 10-pin bowling, crazy golf, go-karts, amusement arcades and lots more.

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Discover the enchanting Greenway House, once the beloved holiday home of world-famous crime writer Agatha Christie. Perched above the scenic River Dart, this National Trust property invites visitors to step into the private world of the Queen of Crime. Wander through beautifully preserved rooms filled with the Christie family’s personal collections, including books, archaeological finds, and intriguing artefacts that inspired her famous mysteries. The surrounding gardens are simply breathtaking—lush woodlands lead down to the riverbank, where the charming boathouse appears in several of Christie’s novels. Take a peaceful stroll, enjoy a picnic, or relax with tea and cake at the on-site café while soaking up the serene atmosphere. Located just a short drive from Cherwood B&B in Paignton, Greenway House is an essential stop for literature lovers and anyone seeking to experience the beauty and history of South Devon. After your visit, return to Cherwood Guest House, a welcoming B&B near Paignton seafront, where comfort, friendly service, and an excellent breakfast make every stay special.

Step back in time at Bygones Victorian Museum in Torquay, a fascinating indoor attraction just a few miles from Cherwood B&B in Paignton. This lovingly recreated Victorian street brings history to life with authentic shopfronts, cobbled lanes, and the sounds and scents of a bygone era. Wander through more than 90,000 exhibits, from an old-fashioned sweet shop and apothecary to a working model railway and First World War trench. Every detail has been carefully crafted to immerse you in the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of Victorian Britain. Families love the interactive displays, while history enthusiasts appreciate the museum’s dedication to preserving local heritage. Rain or shine, Bygones is an ideal indoor day out in Torbay, offering fun and nostalgia for visitors of all ages. After exploring the past, step back into the present and relax at Cherwood Guest House in Paignton, where modern comfort meets warm hospitality. Our Paignton B&B provides the perfect base for exploring the English Riviera’s attractions, beaches, and history.

An English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark Key Site. 

Cockington is a quintessentially English village with Saxon origins which attracts many thousands of visitors each year. Some of the quaint thatched cottages and buildings in the chocolate box village date back to the 16th Century and are mentioned in the Doomsday Book. 

Cockington Country Park is a beautiful mix of picturesque well-ordered garden landscapes, open parkland, rural countryside and substantial woodland. Tucked in amongst this 450 acre park are three pretty ornamental lakes, a historic Manor House with craft centre and studios, and a quaint church. Cockington Country Park has received the prestigious Keep Britain Tidy, Green Flag Award, an accolade which it has retained 24 times since its launch, one of only 5 sites in the whole of the UK to do so.  The Green Flag Award is given for high environmental standards, being beautifully maintained and having excellent visitor facilities.

All can be explored through a network of paths and bridleways, both on foot or by bike. The Visitor Centre, located in the village, offers plenty of information about the park, its history, wildlife and the work of the Torbay Coast & Countryside Trust (who care for the country park), as well as a selection of unique gifts and treats.

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BABBACOMBE MODEL VILLAGE
Step into a world of miniature marvels!

Bring back those magical childhood memories as you explore a quaint and quirky representation of England through five decades at Babbacombe Model Village. Meander your way through four acres of beautiful miniature gardens and discover many fun characters and animated features - from trains to moving vehicles and even a fire-breathing dragon.

Babbacombe Model Village is equally as famous for its glorious gardens that help to set it aside as one of Europe’s Premier Model Villages. The gardens provide a stunning backdrop for the hundreds of miniature models and animated scenes. For an added twist there are always fun characters to search for as you explore the gardens.

There are several extra special features including the 4D theatre – a multi-sensory theatre showing amazing 3D films with surprise special effects to add the 4th Dimension. Throughout the year there are several special events including Evening illuminations, Halloween Horrors, when the gardens and displays take on a spooky twist, and the famous Winter Wonderland sees the park transformed into a snow covered picture-postcard world along with a very special visit by Father Christmas.

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A short drive from Paignton and Cherwood B&B, Pennywell Farm near Buckfastleigh offers a truly unforgettable countryside experience. Set 600 feet above sea level with stunning views over Dartmoor National Park, this award-winning organic farm invites visitors to get hands-on with friendly animals and enjoy a full day of fun. Meet adorable piglets, bottle-feed lambs, and cuddle miniature donkeys—there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The farm also hosts daily activities such as pig racing, tractor rides, and interactive shows, making every visit different. Perfect for families, couples, and animal lovers, Pennywell combines education with entertainment in a safe, natural environment. There are picnic areas, cafés, and gift shops, so you can relax and make the most of your day out. After a day in the Devon countryside, return to the comfort of Cherwood Guest House in Paignton, your ideal Torbay B&B, where you’ll find comfortable rooms, a welcoming atmosphere, and a delicious breakfast to start the next adventure.

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The South West Coast Path is the UK’s longest National Trail, at a blister-inducing 630 miles. It runs from Minehead in Somerset along the north coast to Penzance in Cornwall, and all the way up the South Coast to Poole Harbour, Dorset.

The path also stretches along the entire length of the English Riviera, South Devon’s beautiful bay and a designated UNESCO Global Geopark, where you’ll find 22 miles of coastal path through some stunning Geopark scenery.

A popular route is the 2.5 miles from Torquay Harbour to Daddyhole Plain. The walk passes a number of landmarks including Beacon Cove where Agatha Christie used to swim as a girl, and the naturally-sculpted cliff arch known as ‘London Bridge’. Finally, after a climb to 200ft above sea level you’ll reach Daddyhole Plain, a wonderful vantage point allowing you to gaze across the town and out to sea.

If you’re looking for a more strenuous hike, why not try the more challenging route from Churston to Broadsands? A peaceful path passing through country lanes, patches of woodland and secluded coves, this is a rewarding walk that showcases the South Devon countryside at its best.

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This is an easy, wheelchair-friendly walk of about 1.3 miles (2.0 km) along Paignton’s Victorian promenade and seafront. The route is wide and smooth with no major gradients, making it accessible to many. Along the way you’ll pass the pier, the greens, and sections of sea wall that reveal fossils. It’s a pleasant coastal stroll ideal for lighter walking days or for combining with other local activities.

This is a gentler walk (about 2.0 miles / 3.2 km) that starts in Old Paignton and continues out to the seafront. It’s especially appealing for those who enjoy discovering features in the built and natural environment: you’ll see geological specimens in local building stone, Permian sandstones, breccias, and fossiliferous limestone, as well as observing how local geology interacts with the sea and coastline. The walk is mostly level and suitable for a relaxed pace. Along the seafront, take time to enjoy views over the bay, the pier, and the beach. 

This is a scenic and varied coastal walk that links Paignton with Brixham. You’ll pass by broad beaches, hidden coves, wooded sections and cliff paths, as well as walking alongside the railway line for parts of the route. The dramatic red cliffs and sandstone hues of the coastline give the walk distinctive character—these colours come from iron oxides in the rock. You’ll experience a mix of flat stretches, steeper gradients and steps, so good footwear is a must. There are opportunities to rest at small beaches or cafes along the way, and the route offers changing vistas of the sea, cliffs and adjacent countryside. It’s a longer walk, so many people choose one-way and return by bus or train for parts of it. 

Though not located directly in Paignton, Torquay Golf Club is only a few miles away and is one of the premier courses in the area, often used by visitors staying in Paignton. The club’s course is elegantly laid out through parkland terrain with gently rolling fairways, mature trees, and beautifully maintained greens. One of its standout features is the panoramic views it affords: to the east you see out over Lyme Bay, while to the west the land rises toward Dartmoor, giving you a fascinating contrast of sea and moorland scenery.

One historically interesting fact: Nick Faldo, as a young pro, once won a Pro-Am here, and his early success is commemorated in the clubhouse. The facilities are solid — there is a driving range, short game area, and a teaching bay with lessons available to visitors. The club takes pride in welcoming visitors and maintaining a high standard of play year-round, owing in part to reliable drainage and maintenance practices. If you want a classic English Riviera golf experience with views and local character, Torquay Golf Club is a strong option.

Broadsands Pitch & Putt offers a more casual, accessible form of golf that is especially suitable for families, casual players, and holidaymakers. It is a 9-hole pitch & putt course perched above Broadsands Beach, and each hole varies in length from about 55 yards up to 121 yards, giving a decent variation in shots and challenges. What makes this spot especially appealing is the spectacular sea views of Torbay seen from many of the holes, making each round feel like a coastal stroll as well as a light sporting activity.

The course is maintained by a local, family-oriented team, making it feel friendly and relaxed. They supply all equipment, so you don’t need to bring clubs or balls. Because it uses “real” golf balls (unlike many mini or novelty courses), it feels more like a true short golf challenge rather than a novelty attraction. It’s ideal if you want a quick round between other activities, to take in scenery without long drives, or to enjoy golf without the formality or time commitment of a full 18-hole course. It’s also one of the few pitch & putts in the Torbay area that emphasize views and relaxed play.

Churston Golf Club is an 18-hole, parkland course sculpted along the cliffs and rolling land between Paignton and Brixham. The layout is boldly undulating, with natural slopes and dips woven into each hole, providing a thoughtful challenge to golfers of all levels. From its vantage points, you’ll enjoy sweeping coastal views over Torbay and glimpses of the sea, blending the tranquillity of countryside with the drama of shoreline scenery.

The clubhouse is warm and welcoming, offering full facilities, a pro shop, and function spaces for events and gatherings. Because the course is based on shillet and shale sub-soils, drainage is excellent, meaning the course remains playable even after heavy rain. Many golfers praise its friendly atmosphere and scenic routing: the holes feel interwoven with the natural land rather than imposed. The coastal location also means you’ll experience sea breezes as part of the play, making club choice and shot direction more interesting. Overall, Churston offers a satisfying mix of challenge, charm, and coastal character—ideal if you want to play somewhere local but with character and variety.

Get ready for swashbuckling fun at Pirates Bay Adventure Golf, located right on Paignton seafront, just a few minutes’ walk from Cherwood B&B. This themed, 18-hole mini golf course offers a fantastic day or evening out for visitors of all ages. Surrounded by tropical landscaping, waterfalls, and pirate décor, you’ll dodge cannonballs, steer clear of sneaky buccaneers, and try your best to sink your putt without sinking your ship! The course is floodlit at night, creating a magical seaside atmosphere that’s perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends. Whether you’re a serious golfer or just out for a laugh, Pirates Bay delivers plenty of smiles and seaside charm. After your game, enjoy a walk along the promenade, visit Paignton Pier, or relax back at Cherwood Guest House, your welcoming Paignton B&B near the beach. With comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast each morning, it’s the perfect base for fun-filled days exploring Torbay.

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For those wanting to enjoy a leisurely day by the sea, head to Goodrington Sands which is not far from Paignton. This beautiful stretch of beach is divided into North and South Sands, offering a mix of pebbly and sandy shores. With a Seaside Award, safe swimming conditions and loads of great activities, this family friendly beach promises to keep the kids happy whatever the weather. It’s an ideal spot for water sports, there are a number of different hire options available, with pedalos, paddle boats and even windsurfing for beginners.rock pooling. Perfect for enjoying a leisurely day by the sea. The nearby Young’s Park features boating lakes, a café, and ample green space for picnics.

Preston Sands is gently sloping sandy beach only a short stroll from Paignton seafront (and along the beach when the tides allow!) It is known for its long, sheltered stretches and popularity with visitors of all ages. It features a seafront promenade, easy walking access, and is popular for its relaxing atmosphere. The Boathouse is tucked into the corner and offers a selection of licensed drinks, snacks and meals.

Minutes from our doorstep, Paignton Beach is a quintessential British seaside destination. With its golden sands and calm waters, it’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or building sandcastles with the kids. 

Located on the seafront, the tradional Paignton Pier reaches out majestically from the centre of Paignton seafront, an unmissable destination for classic seaside amusements, food and drink and of course, the stunning views of the coastline. 

Broadsands Beach, further down the coastline but still very much worth the short drive,  is a long, curving, red sandy beach in an idyllic rural setting, located between Paignton and Brixham, enjoyed by families due to its calm, shallow waters, and the adjacent parkland. A popular choice for those wishing to distance themselves from the busier sights and sounds of Paignton seafront. At low tide interesting rock pools are exposed at the southern end of the beach

This beach offers good facilities including food outlets, toilets, and a large car park, along with beach huts to rent. It's a great spot for activities like paddling, swimming, watersports and to take in the glorious English Riviera coastline.

Founded more than 800 years ago, Torre Abbey is one of Devon’s most remarkable heritage sites, offering a fascinating blend of history, art, and natural beauty. Originally established as a medieval monastery in 1196, the Abbey has witnessed centuries of change — from its monastic beginnings to its transformation into a Georgian residence and later into a cultural treasure for the English Riviera.

Today, visitors can wander through beautifully preserved ruins, cloisters, and elegant Georgian rooms that house an impressive collection of art and historical artefacts. The museum’s galleries feature works from renowned artists, interactive exhibits, and displays that tell the story of Torbay’s rich past.

Just a short drive from Paignton, Coleton Fishacre is a spectacular Arts and Crafts–style garden that flows down through a sheltered valley to the sea. Lush exotic planting, winding paths, and hidden glades make it a delight to explore. From vibrant herbaceous borders to dramatic coastal viewpoints, it’s a place where the beauty of nature meets artistic design, making it one of South Devon’s most enchanting garden destinations.

Tucked away in the rolling countryside near Paignton, this charming two-acre garden is a haven for plant lovers. It’s filled with vibrant herbaceous borders, a tranquil wildlife pond, and meandering grassy paths that lead through wildflower meadows. The garden blends structure and natural beauty effortlessly, offering a relaxing countryside escape with colourful seasonal displays and a focus on supporting local wildlife.

Set in the heart of Paignton, Oldway Gardens surround the grand Oldway Mansion and are steeped in history. Designed in the early 1900s by Paris Singer, son of the famous sewing machine magnate, the gardens were inspired by the opulence of the Palace of Versailles. They feature elegant terraces, manicured lawns, decorative flowerbeds, and ornamental balustrades. The gardens offer a peaceful retreat for visitors and locals alike, perfect for leisurely walks or quiet reflection amid the formal landscaping.

Based on the glorious South Devon coastline in South West England, enjoy your days out in Devon on our steam trains, boat trips and paddle steamer - the only attraction in Devon that lets you enjoy the delights of Torquay, Paignton, Brixham, Dartmouth and the River Dart, Kingswear and Totnes on your day out!

Explore this website to find out what makes us the Devon attraction with a difference...

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Paignton Pier –  where family days out are filled with fun and frolics.  Devon’s Beautiful Bay has been welcoming families for centuries and this popular award-winning holiday destination has all year-round appeal. Paignton Pier is at the heart of Paignton’s child and family-friendly seaside entertainment and has award-winning sandy beaches. 

Paignton’s iconic Victorian Pleasure Pier has been entertaining visitors of all ages since the late 1800’s. A firm favourite with all generations of the family from grandparents to tiny tots.

Why not try a tempting ice cream, made with Devon produce or fish and chips, must-have treats whenever you visit the seaside. Known as England’s Seafood Coast, the delicious fish that is served to you will be some of the finest quality in the UK and caught in local waters.

Hop aboard the Torquay Land Train for a relaxed, open-air journey through the heart of Torquay and the nearby village of Cockington. It’s one of the most enjoyable and stress-free ways to explore the stunning English Riviera, perfect for visitors who want to see the sights without worrying about parking or navigating busy roads. The cheerful land train runs regularly and stops at popular spots including the seafront, Abbey Sands, and Torre Abbey Gardens. You can hop on and off as you please, taking time to enjoy the beaches, cafés, and local attractions along the route. Families, couples, and solo travellers all love this easy, fun way to get around. Whether you’re discovering Torquay for the first time or revisiting old favourites, the Torquay Land Train offers a charming new perspective of this beautiful coastal resort. After a day exploring, return to the comfort of Cherwood B&B in Paignton, just a short journey away, where a warm welcome, peaceful rooms, and a hearty breakfast await. Staying at our friendly Paignton B&B puts you right in the heart of Torbay, close to everything the English Riviera has to offer—from scenic rides like the Torquay Land Train to sandy beaches, harbourside walks, and lively seaside attractions.

Just minutes from Cherwood B&B, Paignton Zoo is one of Devon’s best loved family attractions and a must for nature lovers exploring Paignton and the wider Torbay area. Home to more than two thousand animals, the zoo takes visitors on a global journey through carefully designed habitats, from the African savannah to tropical rainforests. You will meet giraffes, lions, gorillas, flamingos, and many other fascinating species, all cared for within beautifully landscaped grounds.

Educational talks, feeding sessions, and play areas make it perfect for families, while the zoo’s botanical gardens create a tranquil setting for a relaxing stroll. Paignton Zoo plays an important role in international conservation work, helping to protect endangered animals and preserve biodiversity. Whether you are looking for an exciting day out or a peaceful escape surrounded by nature, this award winning attraction has something for everyone. After a memorable visit, head back to Cherwood Guest House in Paignton to unwind and enjoy our welcoming atmosphere, comfortable rooms, and delicious breakfasts, the ideal base for exploring the English Riviera’s wildlife and beaches.

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Splashdown Quaywest is the wettest, wildest attraction on the English Riviera.  Great fun water slides, some laugh out loud fun and some will have you screaming.  Swimming pool area and plenty of space for enjoying the sun and, of course, the fantastic views of Souuth Devon's Beautiful Bay.

Choose from eight exciting flume rides.  Jump on a tyre and ride the visitors' favourites Surf Lagoon and Raging Rapids; these rivers are wild, so grab your tyre and hold on tight. Ride the rapids from one splash pool to the next and try not to capsize. You never know what’s around the next bend!  Dare you descend the famous Devil's Drop? Near vertical drop and 15m from the top.

All that fluming can work up an appetite, dive into our restaurant to refuel or grab a cooling ice-cream.   Meal Deals are available and can be booked online - that's where to get the best price and to book your admission tickets.

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